Display module

Abstract

The invention relates to a display module. The display module comprises a display unit, and the display unit comprises a foldable area and a non-foldable area adjacent to the foldable area. The cover member is disposed on a rear surface of the display unit and includes a cover portion covering a portion of the display unit overlapping each of the foldable area and the non-foldable area. The cover portion has at least one opening defined therein, the at least one opening exposing at least a portion of a side surface of the display unit. The first grip portion extends from the cover portion in the first direction and protrudes to an outside of the display unit. The second grip portion extends from the cover portion in the second direction and protrudes to the outside of the display unit. The third grip portion is spaced apart from the second grip portion in the second direction and protrudes to an outside of the display unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display module, and more particularly, to a display module for inspection. Background Art

[0002] Display devices provide information to users by displaying various images on a screen. Typically, display devices display information within a designated display portion of the display device. Recently, a variety of bendable and flexible display devices have been developed. Unlike flat-panel displays, bendable and flexible display devices can be folded, curled, bent, or otherwise deformed like paper. Regardless of the existing size of the display area, flexible display devices can be provided with a deformable shape, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0003] Recently, research has been conducted on methods for inspecting defects in flexible display devices. In particular, research is being conducted on a cover member that can inspect defects of a display device to prevent damage to the display device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments provide a display module with improved inspection efficiency.

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display module includes a display unit, the display unit including a foldable area and a non-folding area adjacent to the foldable area. A cover member is provided on the rear surface of the display unit. The cover member includes a cover portion that covers a portion of the display unit that overlaps with each of the foldable area and the non-folding area. The cover portion has at least one opening defined therein. The at least one opening exposes at least a portion of a side surface of the display unit. A first grip portion extends from the cover portion in a first direction. The first grip portion protrudes outside the display unit in a plan view. A second grip portion extends from the cover portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The second grip portion protrudes outside the display unit in a plan view. A third grip portion is spaced apart from the second grip portion in a second direction. The third grip portion protrudes outside the display unit in a plan view.

[0006] In an embodiment, the non-folding region may include a first non-folding region adjacent to a first side of the foldable region and a second non-folding region adjacent to a second side of the foldable region opposite to the first side. The second non-folding region is spaced apart from the first non-folding region in a first direction. The cover portion may include a first cover portion covering a portion of the display unit that overlaps with each of the first non-folding region, the second non-folding region, and the foldable region, and a second cover portion covering a portion of the display unit that overlaps with the second non-folding region.

[0007] In an embodiment, the first cover portion may include a first main body portion connected to the second cover portion, a first arm portion extending from the first main body portion in a first direction, a second arm portion extending from the first main body portion in a second direction, a third arm portion extending from the first main body portion in a direction opposite to the second direction, a first connecting portion connecting the first grip portion and the first arm portion to each other, a second connecting portion connecting the second grip portion and the second arm portion to each other, and a third connecting portion connecting the third grip portion and the third arm portion to each other.

[0008] In an embodiment, the at least one opening may include a first opening and a second opening. The first opening may be defined in the second connecting portion. The first opening exposes a portion of a first side surface of the display unit that overlaps with the foldable region. The second opening may be defined in the third connecting portion. The second opening exposes a portion of a second side surface of the display unit that is opposite to the first side surface and overlaps with the foldable region.

[0009] In an embodiment, the first connecting portion may include a first base portion integral with the first arm portion and the first grip portion. The first base portion extends from an end of the first arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the first grip portion. The first protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the first base portion in a direction normal to the upper surface of the first grip portion.

[0010] In an embodiment, the second connecting portion may include a second base portion integral with the second arm portion and the second grip portion. The second base portion extends from an end of the second arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the second grip portion. The second protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the second base portion in a direction normal to the upper surface of the second grip portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the third connecting portion may include a third base portion integral with the third arm portion and the third grip portion. The third base portion extends from an end of the third arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the third grip portion. The third protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the third base portion in a direction normal to the upper surface of the third grip portion.

[0012] In an embodiment, the cover member may further include a fourth grip portion spaced apart from the first body portion in a direction opposite to the first direction. The fourth grip portion protrudes outside the display unit in a plan view. The second cover portion may include a second body portion connected to the first body portion and a fourth connection portion connecting the fourth grip portion and the second body portion to each other.

[0013] In an embodiment, the fourth connecting portion may include a fourth base portion integral with the second main body portion and the fourth grip portion. The fourth base portion extends from an end of the second main body portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the fourth grip portion. The fourth protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the fourth base portion in a direction normal to the upper surface of the fourth grip portion.

[0014] In an embodiment, a guide hole is defined in the fourth grip portion. The guide hole penetrates the fourth grip portion in a thickness direction of the fourth grip portion. The area of ​​the fourth grip portion in a plan view is larger than the area of ​​each of the first grip portion, the second grip portion, and the third grip portion in a plan view.

[0015] In an embodiment, the display module may further include a release film disposed between the display unit and the cover member, and an adhesive layer disposed between the release film and the cover member.

[0016] In an embodiment, the display unit may include a display panel including at least one pixel, a driver disposed on the display panel, and a driving cover member covering the driver.

[0017] In an embodiment, a third opening is defined in the second cover portion. The third opening exposes a portion of the upper surface of the driving cover member. The third opening may not overlap with the release film in a plan view.

[0018] In an embodiment, at least one third opening is defined in the first cover portion. The at least one third opening exposes a portion of the rear surface of the display unit.

[0019] In an embodiment, the at least one opening may expose a portion of the release film that is in direct contact with the rear surface of the display unit and that overlaps the foldable area.

[0020] In an embodiment, the second non-folding region may include a bending region bendable along a bending axis extending parallel to the second direction, and the second cover portion may cover a portion of the display unit overlapping the bending region.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display module includes a display unit, which includes a foldable area and a non-folding area adjacent to the foldable area. A cover member is provided on the rear surface of the display unit. The cover member includes a main body portion that covers a portion of the display unit that overlaps with the foldable area and the non-folding area. An arm portion extends from the main body portion in a first direction or a second direction intersecting the first direction. At least one grip portion is spaced apart from the arm portion. At least one grip portion protrudes outside the display unit in a plan view. A base portion is integrated with the arm portion and the at least one grip portion. The base portion extends from a portion adjacent to the arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the at least one grip portion. The protrusion is integrated with the base portion. The protrusion protrudes from the base portion in a normal direction to the upper surface of the at least one grip portion.

[0022] In an embodiment, at least one opening is defined in the base portion. The at least one opening exposes a portion of a side surface of the display unit that overlaps with the foldable region.

[0023] In an embodiment, a release film is provided between the display unit and the cover member, and an adhesive layer is provided between the release film and the cover member, and at least one opening exposes a portion of the release film overlapping the foldable area in direct contact with the rear surface of the display unit.

[0024] In an embodiment, an opening is defined in the body portion, and the opening exposes at least a portion of a rear surface of the display unit.

[0025] In a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display module may include a cover member comprising an arm portion overlapping the foldable region of the display unit, a grip portion protruding from the exterior of the display unit, and a connection portion connecting the arm portion and the grip portion. The connection portion defines an opening that exposes a portion of each of the side and rear surfaces of the grille portion of the display unit. This improves the efficiency of inspecting the grille portion of the display module.

[0026] In addition, the connection portion may include a protrusion protruding in a normal direction of the upper surface of the grip portion. Therefore, defects generated in the display module during an inspection process of the display module can be reduced, and the impact resistance of the display module can be increased. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Illustrative, non-limiting embodiments will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure in an inverted state. Figure 1 A perspective view of a display module.

[0030] Figure 3 The embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a disassembled state. Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the display module.

[0031] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure in an unfolded state. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a display unit.

[0032] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a bent state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display unit showing a cross section around a curved area.

[0033] Figure 6 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover member.

[0034] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure in an inverted state. Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover member.

[0035] Figure 8 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 A plan view of the display module.

[0036] Figure 9 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 Bottom view of the display module.

[0037] Figure 10 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure along Figure 8 A sectional view of a section taken along line A1-B1.

[0038] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure along Figure 8 A sectional view of the section taken along line A2-B2.

[0039] Figure 12 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure along Figure 8 A sectional view of the section taken along line A3-B3.

[0040] Figure 13 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure along Figure 8 A sectional view of a section taken along line A4-B4.

[0041] Figure 14 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present disclosure along Figure 8A sectional view of a section taken along line CD of FIG.

[0042] Figure 15 and Figure 16 The present invention is a method for manufacturing an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 A view that displays the module's methods.

[0043] Figure 17 is a bottom view illustrating a display module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 18 is a bottom view illustrating a display module according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 19 This is to illustrate the use of an embodiment according to the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a display device manufactured using a display module.

[0046] Figure 20 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a folded state of an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 19 A perspective view of a display device.

[0047] Figure 21 The embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a disassembled state. Figure 19 An exploded perspective view of a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Hereinafter, a display module according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used for the same components in the drawings, and redundant descriptions of the same components will be omitted.

[0049] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is shown in an inverted state Figure 1 A perspective view of a display module. Figure 3 Shown in disassembled state Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the display module.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 The display module DM according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display unit DU, a first release film RF1, a second release film RF2, a cover member CM, and an adhesive layer AL ( Figure 14 ).

[0051] In this specification, a plane may be defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. For example, in an embodiment, the second direction DR2 may be perpendicular to the first direction DR1. Furthermore, the third direction DR3 may be perpendicular to the plane. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the first to third directions DR1 to DR3 may intersect with each other at various angles.

[0052] The display unit DU may include a component that emits light (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 In an embodiment, the display unit DU may include a foldable area FA, a first non-folding area NFA1, and a second non-folding area NFA2 (e.g., arranged in a first direction DR1). The foldable area FA may be an area in which the display unit DU can be folded (e.g., may be flexible or deformable) by an external force. For example, the foldable area FA may include a folding axis FX extending along the second direction DR2.

[0053] The first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be areas in which at least a portion of the display unit DU may not be folded by an external force (e.g., may not be flexible or deformable). Each of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be adjacent to the foldable area FA. For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be adjacent to at least one side of the foldable area FA (e.g., in the first direction DR1 or a direction opposite to the first direction DR1). For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 may be adjacent to a first side of the foldable area FA, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be adjacent to an opposite second side of the foldable area FA. In an embodiment, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The foldable area FA may be located between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 (e.g., in the first direction DR1).

[0054] In an embodiment, the second non-folding area NFA2 may include a bending area BA and a non-bending area adjacent to at least one side of the bending area BA. A portion of the display unit DU located in the bending area BA may be bent (e.g., bendable) along a bending axis BX. In an embodiment, the bending axis BX may extend parallel to the second direction DR2. A portion of the display unit DU located in the non-bending area may not be bent and may have a substantially flat surface.

[0055] Since the display unit DU includes the foldable area FA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2, the display module DM may also include the foldable area FA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0056] The first release film RF1 may be disposed below the display unit DU (e.g., directly below the display unit DU). For example, the first release film RF1 may be disposed on the rear surface D-RS of the display unit DU. In an embodiment, the first release film RF1 is disposed in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3 from the display unit DU and may cover at least a portion of the rear surface D-RS of the display unit DU.

[0057] A portion of the first release film RF1 may protrude outside the display unit DU in a plan view. Therefore, after completing the defect inspection of the display unit DU, the first release film RF1 can be easily removed from the display unit DU. In an embodiment, the first release film RF1 may include a transparent material.

[0058] In an embodiment, the first release film RF1 may not cover a portion of the display unit DU that overlaps with the bending area BA. For example, the first release film RF1 may not cover a portion of the display unit DU that is bent in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3. In an embodiment, the first release film RF1 may not cover the drive cover member, the circuit board, and the driver (for example, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The drive cover member CIC, the circuit board PCB and the driver DIC) and the like are included in the display unit DU.

[0059] The second release film RF2 can be provided on the display unit DU. For example, the second release film RF2 can be provided on the upper surface D-US of the display unit DU (for example, directly on the upper surface D-US of the display unit DU in the third direction DR3). The second release film RF2 can cover at least a portion of the upper surface D-US of the display unit DU. The second release film RF2 can protect the upper surface D-US of the display unit DU from external impact or foreign matter. In addition, in an embodiment, the second release film RF2 may include a transparent material.

[0060] The cover member CM may be disposed below the first release film RF1 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The cover member CM may cover at least a portion of each of the display unit DU and the first release film RF1. Furthermore, the cover member CM may cover the portion of the display unit DU that is bent along the bending axis BX in the bending area BA. Thus, the cover member CM may protect the display unit DU from external impacts or foreign matter. Consequently, defects in the display unit DU may be reduced during transportation.

[0061] In an embodiment, the cover member CM may include a plastic such as polycarbonate. In an embodiment, the cover member CM may be manufactured by a plastic molding method such as extrusion or injection molding. However, the material of the cover member CM according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and the cover member CM may include a metal or an organic / inorganic composite material.

[0062] like Figure 14 As shown in FIG, the adhesive layer AL may be provided between the cover member CM and the first release film RF1 (for example, in the third direction DR3). For example, the adhesive layer AL may adhere the cover member CM and the first release film RF1 to each other. In an embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may be a double-sided tape. The adhesive layer AL may be provided on the first main body portion of the cover member CM (for example, as shown in FIG). Figure 6 However, the arrangement of the adhesive layer AL according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto and may have various arrangements between the cover member CM and the first release film RF1.

[0063] Figure 4 Shown in the expanded state Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a cross section of a display unit. Figure 5 is shown in a bent state Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display unit showing a cross section around a curved area.

[0064] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In an embodiment, the display unit DU may include a display panel PN, an optical functional layer OL, a window member WN, a first adhesive member AM1, a protective film PF, a first supporting member SM1, a second adhesive member AM2, a bending protection layer BPL, a spacer SPC, a driver DIC, a driving cover member CIC, a circuit board PCB, an elastic member EM, a third adhesive member AM3, a second supporting member SM2, a fourth adhesive member AM4, a heat dissipation layer HL, a shock absorbing layer SL, and an insulating member IM.

[0065] The display panel PN may include a plurality of pixels (eg, Figure 19 Pixels PX). A plurality of pixels may include at least one transistor for generating light, at least one light emitting layer, and a plurality of metal layers. In an embodiment, the display panel PN may be divided into a display area DA, a non-display area NDA, a bending area BA, and a pad area PDA.

[0066] The display area DA may be an area in which a plurality of pixels generate an image by emitting light. The non-display area NDA may be adjacent to the display area DA (e.g., in the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2) and may be an area in which no image is generated. For example, the non-display area NDA may surround at least a portion of the display area DA (e.g., in a plan view). The bending area BA is a portion of the display panel PN along a bending axis (e.g., Figure 3 The pad area PDA may be adjacent to the bending area BA and may be spaced apart from one side of the non-display area NDA. Components for providing data signals, drive signals, etc. to the pixels (e.g., a driver DIC, a circuit board PCB, etc.) may be disposed in the pad area PDA.

[0067] As described above, the second non-folding area NFA2 may include the bending area BA and the non-bending area. The non-bending area may include a portion of the display area DA, a portion of the non-display area NDA, and the pad area PDA.

[0068] The optical functional layer OL may be disposed on the display panel PN (e.g., directly on the display panel PN in the third direction DR3). The optical functional layer OL may block external light incident on the display panel PN from the outside (e.g., the external environment). In an embodiment, the optical functional layer OL may be a polarizing layer. The polarizing layer may be stretched in one direction. In an embodiment, the direction in which the polarizing layer is stretched may be an absorption axis for absorbing light, and the direction perpendicular to the stretching direction may be a transmission axis for transmitting light. However, the optical functional layer OL according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to a polarizing layer, and the display unit DU may have a structure that does not include a polarizing layer. In this embodiment, the optical functional layer OL may be a color filter or the like.

[0069] The window member WN may be disposed on the optical function layer OL (eg, in the third direction DR3 ). The window member WN may protect the display panel PN and the optical function layer OL. In an embodiment, the window member WN may include a polymer material, a glass film, etc., to be bendable.

[0070] In an embodiment, the window member WN may include ultra-thin glass (UTG). For example, the ultra-thin glass may be strengthened and have a predetermined stress distribution inside. Compared to before strengthening, the ultra-thin glass may further reduce the appearance, expansion, and breakage of cracks caused by external impacts. The ultra-thin glass may have various stresses in each area through a strengthening process. For example, in an embodiment, the ultra-thin glass of the window member WN may be a thin film glass that has been chemically strengthened to have increased strength. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the ultra-thin glass of the window member WN may be a thin film glass that has been thermally strengthened.

[0071] In embodiments where the glass included in the window member WN is composed of an ultra-thin film or a thin film, the window member WN may have flexible properties and may be capable of bending, folding, or curling. For example, in embodiments, the window member WN may include glass such as soda-lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, lithium aluminosilicate glass, or the like. These materials may be used alone or in combination with one another. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the window member WN may include various types of glass.

[0072] A protective layer may be further provided on the window member WN. In an embodiment, the protective layer together with the window member WN may perform at least one of functions such as absorbing shock generated from the outside of the display unit DU, anti-scratch, anti-fingerprint, and anti-glare. In an embodiment, the protective layer may include a transparent polymer film.

[0073] The first adhesive member AM1 may be disposed between the optical functional layer OL and the window member WN (e.g., in the third direction DR3). The first adhesive member AM1 may couple the optical functional layer OL and the window member WN to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the first adhesive member AM1 may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), a light-curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0074] The protective film PF may be provided on the lower portion of the display panel PN (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The protective film PF may include a polymer material. For example, in an embodiment, the polymer material includes polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polysulfone (PSF), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), triacetyl cellulose (TAC), cycloolefin polymer (COP), etc. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0075] In an embodiment, the protection film PF may include a first protection film PF1 overlapping the display area DA and the non-display area NDA and a second protection film PF2 overlapping the pad area PDA. The first and second protection films PF1 and PF2 may be spaced apart from each other (eg, in a plan view).

[0076] The first supporting member SM1 may be disposed below the protective film PF (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). The first supporting member SM1 may be used to support the display panel PN. Furthermore, the first supporting member SM1 may be used to help fold the display panel PN. Furthermore, the first supporting member SM1 may prevent foreign matter from entering the display panel PN from the outside (e.g., the external environment). Furthermore, the first supporting member SM1 may dissipate or emit heat generated in the display panel PN. In an embodiment, the stiffness of the first supporting member SM1 may be greater than the stiffness of the display panel PN. Therefore, the first supporting member SM1 may prevent the display panel PN from being deformed due to external force applied by a user, etc.

[0077] In an embodiment, the first supporting member SM1 may include a first flat portion FPa, a second flat portion FPb, and a grille portion LP. The first flat portion FPa and the second flat portion FPb may be collectively referred to as a flat portion FP. The grille portion LP may be located between the first flat portion FPa and the second flat portion FPb (e.g., in the first direction DR1). The grille portion LP may overlap with the foldable area FA, the first flat portion FPa may overlap with the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second flat portion FPb may overlap with the second non-folding area NFA2. Therefore, the first flat portion FPa and the second flat portion FPb may support the portion of the display panel PN that overlaps with the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2, and the grille portion LP may help the display panel PN be in a folded state.

[0078] In response to the folding and unfolding of the display unit DU, the grille portion LP may have elasticity. Figure 4 Only one grid portion LP is shown, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the grid portion LP may be formed into multiple segments.

[0079] In an embodiment, the first support member SM1 may include an alloy. For example, the first support member SM1 may include stainless steel (SUS), a magnesium alloy, etc. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the first support member SM1 may include glass or plastic. For example, the first support member SM1 may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), etc. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the first support member SM1 may include various materials.

[0080] The second adhesive member AM2 may be disposed between the protective film PF and the first supporting member SM1 (e.g., in the third direction DR3). For example, the second adhesive member AM2 may couple the protective film PF and the first supporting member SM1 to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the second adhesive member AM2 may include an optically clear adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a light-curable resin, or a thermosetting resin. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0081] In an embodiment, the second adhesive member AM2 may include a 2-1 adhesive member AM2a and a 2-2 adhesive member AM2b. The 2-1 adhesive member AM2a overlaps the first unfolding area NFA1 and may couple the first flat portion FPa and the protective film PF to each other. The 2-2 adhesive member AM2b overlaps the second unfolding area NFA2 and may couple the second flat portion FPb and the protective film PF to each other.

[0082] The bending protection layer BPL may be provided on one side of the display panel PN. The bending protection layer BPL may be provided on one surface of the display panel PN over a portion of the non-display area NDA, the bending area BA, and a portion of the pad area PDA. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown in FIG , in which the display unit DU is in the unfolded state, the bending protection layer BPL may be provided on the side of the display panel PN facing the third direction DR3. When the display panel PN bends in the bending area BA, the bending protection layer BPL may also bend in the bending area BA. Therefore, the bending protection layer BPL may partially protect the display panel PN from external impacts or foreign objects outside the bending area BA.

[0083] In an embodiment, the bending protection layer BPL may include a photocurable resin or a thermosetting resin. For example, in an embodiment, the bending protection layer BPL may include an epoxy resin, an amino resin, a phenolic resin, a urea-formaldehyde resin, a melamine resin, an unsaturated polyester resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyimide resin, etc. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0084] The spacer SPC may be disposed below the first support member SM1 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). For example, the spacer SPC may be disposed below the edge of the second flat portion FPb. When the display panel PN is bent in the bending area BA, one surface of the second protection film PF2 may directly contact the spacer SPC. Therefore, the spacer SPC may fix the second protection film PF2 and the circuit board PCB to the lower portion of the first support member SM1. However, despite the Figure 5 The number of the spacer SPC is shown as one in FIG, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto and may include a plurality of spacers SPC in some embodiments.

[0085] In an embodiment, the spacer SPC may include an organic insulating material. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the spacer SPC may include polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), etc. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0086] The driver DIC may be disposed on a portion of the pad area PDA of the display panel PN. The driver DIC may be electrically connected to the pixels. The driver DIC may generate data signals to drive the pixels. Thus, the pixels may emit light based on the data signals.

[0087] In an embodiment, the driver DIC may have a chip-on-plastic (COP) structure or a chip-on-glass (COG) structure directly disposed on the display panel PN. However, the arrangement structure of the driver DIC according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and in some embodiments, the driver DIC may have a chip-on-film (COF) structure directly disposed on a flexible film. In this case, the circuit board PCB may be electrically connected to the flexible film.

[0088] The drive cover member CIC may be disposed on the driver DIC (e.g., directly on the driver DIC). In an embodiment, the drive cover member CIC may be disposed on a portion of each of the circuit board PCB and the bending protection layer BPL. For example, the drive cover member CIC may cover the driver DIC while directly contacting a portion of each of the circuit board PCB and the bending protection layer BPL. Thus, the drive cover member CIC may protect the driver DIC from external impact or impurities.

[0089] In an embodiment, the driving cover member CIC may be a cover tape. For example, the cover tape may include a synthetic resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0090] The circuit board PCB may be adjacent to the display panel PN located in the pad area PDA. At least a portion of the circuit board PCB may overlap at least a portion of the display panel PN located in the pad area PDA. At least a portion of the circuit board PCB may be disposed on a side of the display panel PN. The circuit board PCB may provide a driving signal to the display panel PN. In an embodiment, the circuit board PCB may include a timing controller for controlling the operation of the display panel PN and a power voltage generator for providing a power supply voltage to the display panel PN.

[0091] The circuit board PCB may be fixed to the lower portion of the display panel PN by the spacer SPC and the second protective film PF2. For example, in an embodiment, the position of the circuit board PCB may be fixed by the spacer SPC and the second protective film PF2 to be spaced apart from the second flat portion FPb in the third direction DR3.

[0092] The elastic member EM may be disposed below the first supporting member SM1 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). For example, the elastic member EM may be disposed between the first supporting member SM1 and the second supporting member SM2 (e.g., in the third direction DR3). The elastic member EM may partially overlap the foldable area FA. When the display unit DU is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the elastic member EM may prevent foreign matter from penetrating into the grille portion LP. Furthermore, when the display unit DU is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the elastic member EM may stretch and contract to prevent the grille portion LP from being exposed.

[0093] For example, the elastic member EM may include an elastomer having a relatively high elastic force or a relatively high restoring force. For example, in an embodiment, the elastic member EM may include an elastic material such as silicone, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), etc. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0094] The third bonding member AM3 may be disposed between the first supporting member SM1 and the elastic member EM (e.g., in the third direction DR3). The third bonding member AM3 may couple the first supporting member SM1 and the elastic member EM to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the third bonding member AM3 may include an optically clear adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a light-curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0095] In an embodiment, the third bonding member AM3 may include a third-first bonding member AM3a and a third-second bonding member AM3b. The third-first bonding member AM3a overlaps the first unfolding area NFA1 and may couple the first flat portion FPa and the elastic member EM. The third-second bonding member AM3b overlaps the second unfolding area NFA2 and may couple the second flat portion FPb and the elastic member EM.

[0096] The second supporting member SM2 may be disposed below the elastic member EM (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). In an embodiment, the second supporting member SM2 may include a first supporting plate SP1 and a second supporting plate SP2 spaced apart from each other. For example, in an embodiment, the first supporting plate SP1 and the second supporting plate SP2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the first supporting plate SP1 and the second supporting plate SP2 may at least partially overlap with the foldable area FA. For example, when the display unit DU is folded, the distance between the first supporting plate SP1 and the second supporting plate SP2 may increase. The second supporting member SM2 may prevent the grid portion LP of the first supporting member SM1 from being pressed.

[0097] In an embodiment, the second support member SM2 may include an alloy. For example, in an embodiment, the second support member SM2 may include stainless steel (SUS), a magnesium alloy, etc. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the second support member SM2 may include glass or plastic. For example, the second support member SM2 may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), etc. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the second support member SM2 may include various materials.

[0098] The fourth bonding member AM4 may be disposed between the second supporting member SM2 and the elastic member EM (e.g., in the third direction DR3). The fourth bonding member AM4 may couple the second supporting member SM2 and the elastic member EM to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the fourth bonding member AM4 may include an optically clear adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a light-curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These materials may be used alone or in combination.

[0099] In an embodiment, the fourth bonding member AM4 may include a fourth-first bonding member AM4a and a fourth-second bonding member AM4b. The fourth-first bonding member AM4a may overlap the first unfolding area NFA1 and couple the elastic member EM to the first support plate SP1. The fourth-second bonding member AM4b overlaps the second unfolding area NFA2 and couples the second support plate SP2 and the elastic member EM to each other.

[0100] The heat dissipation layer HL may be disposed below the second support member SM2 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). In an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer HL may include a first heat dissipation layer HL1 and a second heat dissipation layer HL2 spaced apart from each other. For example, in an embodiment, the first heat dissipation layer HL1 and the second heat dissipation layer HL2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the first heat dissipation layer HL1 and the second heat dissipation layer HL2 may at least partially overlap the foldable area FA.

[0101] The heat dissipation layer HL may include a material having high thermal conductivity. For example, in an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer HL may include aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or the like. These materials may be used alone or in combination. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer HL may be omitted.

[0102] The shock absorbing layer SL may be disposed below the heat dissipation layer HL (e.g., in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). In an embodiment, the shock absorbing layer SL may include a first shock absorbing layer SL1 and a second shock absorbing layer SL2 spaced apart from each other. For example, in an embodiment, the first shock absorbing layer SL1 and the second shock absorbing layer SL2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the first shock absorbing layer SL1 and the second shock absorbing layer SL2 may partially overlap the foldable area FA.

[0103] The shock absorbing layer SL may protect the display panel PN from external impact. In addition, the shock absorbing layer SL may include a material having flexibility so that the display device DD (see FIG. Figure 19 ) can be easily folded. For example, in an embodiment, the shock absorbing layer SL may include a foam type material such as polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, etc. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0104] The insulating member IM may be provided below the shock absorbing layer SL (eg, in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3). For example, the insulating member IM may be in the form of a film or a tape. The insulating member IM may prevent rattling noise from occurring in the display device DD.

[0105] As described above, the display unit DU according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be folded or unfolded, and each of the window member WN, the optical function layer OL, the display panel PN, and the first support member SM1 may have flexibility.

[0106] Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover member. Figure 7 is shown in an inverted state Figure 1 A perspective view of the cover member. Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A plan view of the display module. Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 Bottom view of the display module.

[0107] refer to Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the cover member CM may include a plurality of gripping portions HD and a cover portion CVP. In an embodiment, the gripping portion HD may include a first gripping portion HD1, a second gripping portion HD2, a third gripping portion HD3, and a fourth gripping portion HD4. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. In an embodiment, the cover portion CVP may include a first cover portion CVP1 and a second cover portion CVP2 (e.g., adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1). In an embodiment, the first cover portion CVP1 may include an arm portion AMP, a first connecting portion CNP1, a second connecting portion CNP2, and a third connecting portion CNP3, and a first body portion BDP1. The arm portion AMP may include a first arm portion AMP1, a second arm portion AMP2, and a third arm portion AMP3. The second cover portion CVP2 may include a fourth connecting portion CNP4 and a second body portion BDP2.

[0108] The grip portion HD may function as a handle in the display module DM. For example, the grip portion HD may correspond to a handle through which a user grips the display module DM to transport the display module DM. Thus, defects generated in the display module DM may be reduced while transporting the display module DM.

[0109] The grip portion HD may protrude outside the display unit DU in a plan view. For example, in an embodiment, a first grip portion HD1 may protrude from one side of the display unit DU in a first direction DR1 in a plan view. A second grip portion HD2 may protrude from one side of the display unit DU in a second direction DR2 in a plan view. A third grip portion HD3 may protrude from one side of the display unit DU in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2 in a plan view. A fourth grip portion HD4 may protrude from one side of the display unit DU in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 in a plan view.

[0110] In an embodiment, the grip portion HD may be integrated with the cover portion CVP. For example, in an embodiment, the first grip portion HD1 may extend directly from the first cover portion CVP1 in the first direction DR1. The second grip portion HD2 may extend directly from the first cover portion CVP1 in the second direction DR2. The third grip portion HD3 may extend directly from the first cover portion CVP1 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. The fourth grip portion HD4 may extend from the second cover portion CVP2 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1. In addition, the fourth grip portion HD4 may be spaced apart from the first body portion BDP1 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1.

[0111] The first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, the third grip portion HD3, and the fourth grip portion HD4 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., in a plan view). For example, the first grip portion HD1 and the fourth grip portion HD4 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The second grip portion HD2 and the third grip portion HD3 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, in a plan view, the shapes of the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, and the third grip portion HD3 may be substantially the same as each other. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, in a plan view, the shapes of at least two of the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, and the third grip portion HD3 may be different from each other.

[0112] A guide hole GH may be defined in the fourth grip portion HD4, penetrating the fourth grip portion HD4 in the thickness direction (e.g., the third direction DR3). When the display module DM is coupled to the conveying device, the guide hole GH may be used to secure the display module DM to the conveying device so that the display module DM does not separate from the conveying device. For example, in an embodiment, the conveying device may include a protrusion corresponding to the guide hole GH. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited to this.

[0113] In an embodiment, the area of ​​the fourth grip portion HD4 (e.g., in a plan view) may be greater than the areas of the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, and the third grip portion HD3 (e.g., in a plan view). However, the area of ​​the fourth grip portion HD4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and in some embodiments, the area of ​​the fourth grip portion HD4 may be less than or equal to the area of ​​each of the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, and the third grip portion HD3.

[0114] In an embodiment, the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, the third grip portion HD3, and the fourth grip portion HD4 may be an integral part of the cover portion CVP formed by bending from the first cover portion CVP1 and the second cover portion CVP2. In an embodiment, each of the upper surfaces H-US1, H-US2, H-US3, H-US4 of the first grip portion HD1, the second grip portion HD2, the third grip portion HD3, and the fourth grip portion HD4 may be positioned in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3, and may be positioned farther from the window member (e.g., Figure 5 The window member WN) extends farther from a plane in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0115] Although the number of grip portions HD included in the display module DM is shown as 4, the number of grip portions HD according to embodiments of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the number of grip portions HD may be less than or equal to 3 or greater than or equal to 5.

[0116] The cover portion CVP may cover at least a portion of the display unit DU. For example, in an embodiment, the first cover portion CVP1 may cover a portion of the display unit DU that overlaps with each of the first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2, as well as the foldable area FA. The second cover portion CVP2 may cover a portion of the display unit DU that overlaps only with the second non-folding area NFA2. For example, in an embodiment, the second body portion BDP2 and the fourth connection portion CNP4 may cover a portion of the display unit DU that overlaps with the bending area BA that bends along the bending axis BX.

[0117] In an embodiment, the first arm portion AMP1 may extend from the first body portion BDP1 in a first direction DR1. The second arm portion AMP2 may extend from the first body portion BDP1 in a second direction DR2. The third arm portion AMP3 may extend from the first body portion BDP1 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, the second arm portion AMP2 and the third arm portion AMP3 may be symmetrical to each other with respect to an imaginary line passing through the center of the first body portion BDP1 (for example, in the second direction DR2) and extending parallel to the first direction DR1. However, the shape of the cover member CM according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and in some embodiments, the second arm portion AMP2 and the third arm portion AMP3 may not be symmetrical with respect to the imaginary line. In addition, the second arm portion AMP2 and the third arm portion AMP3 may overlap with the foldable area FA of the display unit DU together with the first body portion BDP1.

[0118] The first connection portion CNP1 may extend from the first arm portion AMP1 along the first direction DR1 (e.g., directly from the first arm portion AMP1). The first connection portion CNP1 may connect the first arm portion AMP1 and the first grip portion HD1 to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the first connection portion CNP1 may be integrated with the first arm portion AMP1 and the first grip portion HD1. The first connection portion CNP1 may cover a portion of the side surface of the display unit DU adjacent to the first grip portion HD1.

[0119] The second connection portion CNP2 may extend from the second arm portion AMP2 along the second direction DR2 (e.g., directly from the second arm portion AMP2). The second connection portion CNP2 may connect the second arm portion AMP2 and the second grip portion HD2 to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the second connection portion CNP2 may be integrated with the second arm portion AMP2 and the second grip portion HD2. The second connection portion CNP2 may partially cover the first side surface S1 of the display unit DU.

[0120] In an embodiment, a first opening OP1 exposing at least a portion of the first side surface S1 of the display unit DU may be defined in the second connection portion CNP2. For example, the portion of the first side surface S1 exposed by the first opening OP1 may be a grille portion (eg, Figure 4 Therefore, when the first side surface S1 of the display module DM is viewed in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2, defect inspection of the side surface of the grille portion may be easily performed through the first opening OP1.

[0121] In an embodiment, the first opening OP1 may expose a rear surface (eg, Figure 2 The first opening OP1 may expose a portion of the first release film RF1 (the rear surface D-RS) of the grille portion. For example, the first opening OP1 may expose the rear surface of the grille portion adjacent to the first side surface S1 of the display unit DU. Therefore, as described above, since the first release film RF1 includes a transparent material, defect inspection of the rear surface of the grille portion can be easily performed through the first opening OP1.

[0122] In an embodiment, the first opening OP1 may include at least one opening, such as a first-first opening OP1-1 and a first-second opening OP1-2. In an embodiment, the first-first opening OP1-1 and the first-second opening OP1-2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the first-first opening OP1-1 and the first-second opening OP1-2 may partially expose the first side surface S1 of the display unit DU. However, the number of first openings OP1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to two, and in some embodiments, the number of first openings OP1 may be one or three or more. In addition, in some embodiments, the size and shape of at least one of the plurality of first openings OP1 may be different from another of the plurality of first openings OP1.

[0123] The third connection portion CNP3 may extend from the third arm portion AMP3 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2 (e.g., directly from the third arm portion AMP3). The third connection portion CNP3 may connect the third arm portion AMP3 and the third grip portion HD3 to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the third connection portion CNP3 may be integrated with the third arm portion AMP3 and the third grip portion HD3. The third connection portion CNP3 may partially cover the second side surface S2 of the display unit DU.

[0124] In an embodiment, a second opening OP2 may be defined in the third connection portion CNP3. The second opening OP2 includes at least one opening that exposes at least a portion of the second side surface S2 of the display unit DU. In an embodiment, the portion of the second side surface S2 exposed by the second opening OP2 may be at least a portion of the grille portion of the display unit DU. Therefore, when the second side surface S2 of the display module DM is viewed in the second direction DR2, defect inspection of the side surface of the grille portion can be easily performed through the second opening OP2.

[0125] In an embodiment, the second opening OP2 may expose a portion of the first release film RF1 that directly contacts the rear surface of the display unit DU. For example, in an embodiment, the second opening OP2 may expose the rear surface of the grille portion adjacent to the second side surface S2 of the display unit DU. Therefore, as described above, since the first release film RF1 includes a transparent material, defect inspection of the rear surface of the grille portion can be easily performed through the second opening OP2.

[0126] In an embodiment, the second opening OP2 may include a second-first opening OP2-1 and a second-second opening OP2-2. The second-first opening OP2-1 and the second-second opening OP2-2 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the second-first opening OP2-1 and the second-second opening OP2-2 may partially expose the second side surface S2 of the display unit DU. However, the number of second openings OP2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to two, and in some embodiments, the number of second openings OP2 may be one or three or more. In addition, in some embodiments, the size and shape of at least one of the plurality of second openings OP2 may be different from another of the plurality of second openings OP2.

[0127] The second body portion BDP2 may be connected (e.g., directly connected) to the first body portion BDP1. For example, in an embodiment, the second body portion BDP2 may be integrated with the first body portion BDP1. The second body portion BDP2 may extend from the first body portion BDP1 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 (e.g., directly from the first body portion BDP1).

[0128] The fourth connection portion CNP4 may extend from the second body portion BDP2 in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 (e.g., directly from the second body portion BDP2). The fourth connection portion CNP4 may connect the second body portion BDP2 and the fourth grip portion HD4 to each other. For example, in an embodiment, the fourth connection portion CNP4 may be integrated with the second body portion BDP2 and the fourth grip portion HD4. The fourth connection portion CNP4 may cover at least a portion of a side surface of the display unit DU adjacent to the fourth grip portion HD4.

[0129] As described above, the second arm portion AMP2 overlapping the foldable area FA of the display unit DU can be connected to the second grip portion HD2 via the second connection portion CNP2. In addition, the third arm portion AMP3 overlapping the foldable area FA of the display unit DU can be connected to the third grip portion HD3 via the third connection portion CNP3. The first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 can be defined in the second connection portion CNP2 and the third connection portion CNP3, respectively. When each of the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 exposes a portion of each of the rear surface and the side surface of the grille portion of the display unit DU, the efficiency of defect inspection of the grille portion of the display module DM can be improved. Compared to an embodiment that does not include the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2, an embodiment that includes both the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 can have increased defect inspection efficiency.

[0130] Figure 10It is shown along Figure 8 A sectional view of a section taken along line A1-B1. Figure 11 It is shown along Figure 8 A sectional view of the section taken along line A2-B2. Figure 12 It is shown along Figure 8 A sectional view of the section taken along line A3-B3. Figure 13 It is shown along Figure 8 A sectional view of a section taken along line A4-B4. Figure 14 It is shown along Figure 8 A sectional view of a section taken along line CD of FIG.

[0131] refer to Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 13 and Figure 14 In an embodiment, the first connection portion CNP1 may include a first base portion BSP1 and a first protrusion PTP1. In an embodiment, the first base portion BSP1 may be integrated with the first arm portion AMP1 and the first grip portion HD1. The first base portion BSP1 may extend from the end of the first arm portion AMP1 (e.g., directly from the end of the first arm portion AMP1) to the height at which the upper surface H-US1 of the first grip portion HD1 is located. For example, in an embodiment, the upper surface of the first base portion BSP1 and the upper surface H-US1 of the first grip portion HD1 may be coplanar with each other in the third direction DR3. The first base portion BSP1 may cover a portion of the side surface of the display unit DU adjacent to the first grip portion HD1.

[0132] In an embodiment, the first protrusion PTP1 may be integrated with the first base portion BSP1. The first protrusion PTP1 may protrude from the first base portion BSP1 in a normal direction to the upper surface H-US1 of the first grip portion HD1 (e.g., directly protrude from the first base portion BSP1). For example, the first protrusion PTP1 may protrude from the first base portion BSP1 in the third direction DR3.

[0133] In an embodiment, the second connection portion CNP2 may include a second base portion BSP2 and a second protrusion PTP2. In an embodiment, the second base portion BSP2 may be integrated with the second arm portion AMP2 and the second grip portion HD2. Furthermore, the second base portion BSP2 may extend from the end of the second arm portion AMP2 (e.g., directly from the end of the second arm portion AMP2) to the height of the upper surface H-US2 of the second grip portion HD2. For example, in an embodiment, the upper surface of the second base portion BSP2 and the upper surface H-US2 of the second grip portion HD2 may be coplanar with each other in the third direction DR3.

[0134] The first opening OP1 may be defined in the second base portion BSP2. The first opening OP1 may expose the first side surface S1 of the display unit DU. In addition, the first opening OP1 may expose the rear surface of the display unit DU and a portion of the first release film RF1 directly contacting the rear surface of the display unit DU.

[0135] In an embodiment, the second protrusion PTP2 may be integrated with the second base portion BSP2. The second protrusion PTP2 may protrude from the second base portion BSP2 in a direction normal to the upper surface H-US2 of the second grip portion HD2 (e.g., directly protrude from the second base portion BSP2). For example, in an embodiment, the second protrusion PTP2 may protrude from the second base portion BSP2 in the third direction DR3.

[0136] In an embodiment, the third connection portion CNP3 may include a third base portion BSP3 and a third protrusion PTP3. In an embodiment, the third base portion BSP3 may be integrated with the third arm portion AMP3 and the third grip portion HD3. Furthermore, the third base portion BSP3 may extend from the end of the third arm portion AMP3 (e.g., directly from the end of the third arm portion AMP3) to the height of the upper surface H-US3 of the third grip portion HD3. For example, in an embodiment, the upper surface of the third base portion BSP3 and the upper surface H-US3 of the third grip portion HD3 may be coplanar with each other in the third direction DR3.

[0137] A second opening OP2 may be defined in the third base portion BSP3. The second opening OP2 may expose the second side surface S2 of the display unit DU. In addition, the second opening OP2 may expose the rear surface of the display unit DU and a portion of the first release film RF1 in direct contact with the rear surface of the display unit DU.

[0138] In an embodiment, the third protrusion PTP3 may be integrated with the third base portion BSP3. The third protrusion PTP3 may protrude from the third base portion BSP3 in a normal direction to the upper surface H-US3 of the third grip portion HD3 (e.g., directly protrude from the third base portion BSP3). For example, in an embodiment, the third protrusion PTP3 may protrude from the third base portion BSP3 in the third direction DR3.

[0139] In an embodiment, the fourth connection portion CNP4 may include a fourth base portion BSP4 and a fourth protrusion PTP4. In an embodiment, the fourth base portion BSP4 may be integrated with the second body portion BDP2 and the fourth grip portion HD4. The fourth base portion BSP4 may extend from the end of the second body portion BDP2 (for example, directly from the end of the second body portion BDP2) to the height at which the upper surface H-US4 of the fourth grip portion HD4 is located. For example, in an embodiment, the upper surface of the fourth base portion BSP4 and the upper surface H-US4 of the fourth grip portion HD4 may be coplanar with each other in the third direction DR3. The fourth base portion BSP4 may cover a portion of the side surface of the display unit DU adjacent to the fourth grip portion HD4. For example, in an embodiment, the fourth base portion BSP4 may cover the curved area BA of the display unit DU together with the second body portion BDP2.

[0140] In an embodiment, the fourth protrusion PTP4 may be integrated with the fourth base portion BSP4. The fourth protrusion PTP4 may protrude from the fourth base portion BSP4 in a normal direction to the upper surface H-US4 of the fourth grip portion HD4 (e.g., directly protrude from the fourth base portion BSP4). For example, in an embodiment, the fourth protrusion PTP4 may protrude from the fourth base portion BSP4 in the third direction DR3.

[0141] The adhesive layer AL may be provided in the region where a plane in which the first arm portion AMP1 extends in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 and a plane in which the second arm portion AMP2 extends in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2 intersect. As described above, the adhesive layer AL may couple the cover member CM and the first release film RF1 to each other. Therefore, the position of the display unit DU on the cover member CM may be secured during transportation or inspection of the display module DM.

[0142] Next, effects of a comparative example and an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0143] According to an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display module DM was manufactured, including a cover member CM formed of plastic, the cover member CM including a first connection portion CNP1, a second connection portion CNP2, a third connection portion CNP3, and a fourth connection portion CNP4, in which a first protrusion PTP1, a second protrusion PTP2, a third protrusion PTP3, and a fourth protrusion PTP4 were formed, respectively, and a first grip portion HD1, a second grip portion HD2, a third grip portion HD3, and a fourth grip portion HD4 were formed. According to a comparative example, a cover member was manufactured, including a first connection portion CNP1, a second connection portion CNP2, a third connection portion CNP3, and a fourth connection portion CNP4, in which the first protrusion PTP1, the second protrusion PTP2, the third protrusion PTP3, and the fourth protrusion PTP4 were not formed, and a first grip portion HD1, a second grip portion HD2, a third grip portion HD3, and a fourth grip portion HD4 were not formed.

[0144] Table 1 below evaluates the impact resistance of the display modules including the cover members according to the examples and comparative examples. Specifically, to evaluate the impact resistance of the display modules according to the examples and comparative examples, the number of scratches generated on the surface of the display modules was measured by repeatedly performing the same handling test in the examples and comparative examples, in which the display modules were moved while gripping the first gripping portion HD1, the second gripping portion HD2, the third gripping portion HD3, and the fourth gripping portion HD4.

[0145] Table 1

[0146] Number of handling tests Number of scratches Defect rate Comparative Example 121 4 3.3％ Example 173 1 0.6％

[0147] As a result, the defect rate of the display module including the cover member according to the example was reduced compared to the defect rate of the display module including the cover member according to the comparative example.

[0148] According to the results, the display module DM including the cover member CM according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has excellent impact resistance. For example, the impact resistance of the display module DM including the first connection portion CNP1, the second connection portion CNP2, the third connection portion CNP3, and the fourth connection portion CNP4 (including the first protrusion PTP1, the second protrusion PTP2, the third protrusion PTP3, and the fourth protrusion PTP4, respectively) can be increased.

[0149] Figure 15 and Figure 16 It shows the manufacturing Figure 1 A view that displays the module's methods.

[0150] In the following, for the sake of brevity, the following may be omitted or simplified. Figures 1 to 9 Describes content that overlaps.

[0151] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 , an adhesive layer AL may be formed on the cover member CM (for example, the adhesive layer AL may be formed directly on the cover member CM in the third direction DR3). In an embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may be formed on the first body portion BDP1 adjacent to the first arm portion AMP1, the second arm portion AMP2, and the third arm portion AMP3. In an embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may be a double-sided tape.

[0152] Then, the first release film RF1 may be attached to one side of the display unit DU (e.g., the first side in the third direction DR3). In addition, the second release film RF2 may be attached to the other side of the display unit DU (e.g., the second side in the third direction DR3) opposite to the one side. The first release film RF1 may not be formed on the curved portion of the display unit DU. For example, in an embodiment, the first release film RF1 may not be formed on the curved portion of the display unit DU. Figure 5 The second release film RF2 may be formed on the circuit board PCB, the driving cover member CIC and the bending protection layer BPL. Figure 5 However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment in which the display unit DU further includes a protective layer formed on the window member WN, the second release film RF2 may be formed on the protective layer.

[0153] Then, the display unit DU coupled to each of the first release film RF1 and the second release film RF2 may be coupled to the cover member CM. For example, the display unit DU and the cover member CM may be coupled to each other such that the first release film RF1 directly contacts the adhesive layer AL. Thus, Figure 1 Display module DM.

[0154] Figure 17 is a bottom view illustrating a display module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] refer to Figure 17 The display module DM' described in reference Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 The display modules DM described are substantially the same except for the third opening OP3.

[0156] In the following, the references will be omitted or simplified. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 Describes content that overlaps.

[0157] refer to Figure 17 In an embodiment, the third opening OP3 may be defined in the second body portion BDP2. The third opening OP3 may include exposing the driving cover member (eg, Figure 5 At least one opening OP3 exposes a portion of the upper surface C-US of the driving cover member. For example, in an embodiment, the third opening OP3 may expose a portion of the upper surface C-US of the driving cover member. For example, the third opening OP3 may not overlap with the first release film RF1 in a plan view. Therefore, defects generated in the driving cover member (e.g., wrinkles generated in the driving cover member, etc.) can be more easily inspected.

[0158] In an embodiment, the third opening OP3 may include a third-first opening OP3-1, a third-second opening OP3-2, and a third-third opening OP3-3. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the number of openings of the third opening OP3 may vary. The third-first opening OP3-1, the third-second opening OP3-2, and the third-third opening OP3-3 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, in a plan view, the shapes of the third-first opening OP3-1, the third-second opening OP3-2, and the third-third opening OP3-3 may be different from each other. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and in some embodiments, in a plan view, the shapes of at least two openings of the third-first opening OP3-1, the third-second opening OP3-2, and the third-third opening OP3-3 may be substantially the same as each other.

[0159] Figure 18 is a bottom view illustrating a display module according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] refer to Figure 18 The display module DM" described in reference Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 The display modules DM described are substantially the same except for the first arm portion AMP1 and the third opening OP3 .

[0161] In the following, for the sake of brevity of explanation, the following may be omitted or simplified. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 Describes content that overlaps.

[0162] refer to Figure 18 , the third opening OP3 may be defined in the first body portion BDP1. The third opening OP3 may expose a portion of the first release film RF1. For example, as described above, since the first release film RF1 includes a transparent material, the third opening OP3 may expose a portion of the rear surface of the display unit DU that directly contacts the first release film RF1. Therefore, a defect inspection may be easily performed on a specific location on the rear surface of the display unit DU through the third opening OP3. The specific location may be a portion of the rear surface of the display unit DU that needs to be inspected, and may be the same as the portion of the rear surface of the display unit DU that needs to be inspected. Figure 18 The positions shown in are different.

[0163] Since the third opening OP3 is formed in the first body portion BDP1, the first arm portion AMP1 can be arranged closer to the third grip portion HD3 than the second grip portion HD2, so that the position of the first arm portion AMP1 is away from the position of the third opening OP3. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the first arm portion AMP1 can have various arrangements or shapes.

[0164] Figure 19 Is shown using Figure 1 A perspective view of a display device manufactured using a display module. Figure 20 is shown in a folded state Figure 19 A perspective view of a display device. Figure 21 Shown in disassembled state Figure 19 An exploded perspective view of a display device.

[0165] refer to Figure 19 、 Figure 20 and Figure 21 In an embodiment, a display device DD may include a display unit DU and a housing HS. Since the display unit DU includes a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2, and a foldable area FA, the display device DD may also include a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2, and a foldable area FA. Furthermore, since the display unit DU includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA, the display device DD may also include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA.

[0166] A plurality of pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DA. For example, in an embodiment, the pixels PX may be arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The display device DD may be foldable along a folding axis FX. In an embodiment, when the display device DD is folded, the display device DD may have an inner folding structure in which the display areas DA face each other. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in an embodiment, when the display device DD is folded, the display device DD may have an outer folding structure in which the display areas DA do not face each other and are disposed outside the display device DD.

[0167] The display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to having one foldable area FA. For example, the display device DD may be folded multiple times, or may have multiple foldable areas FA to realize a rollable display device DD.

[0168] The housing HS may cover the rear surface of the display unit DU and may house and protect a battery module, a camera module, a memory, a video input module, an audio input module, and an external interface module connected to the display unit DU.

[0169] In an embodiment, the Figure 1 The display device DD is manufactured by removing the first and second release films RF1 and RF2 and the cover member CM from the display module DM to couple the housing HS to the display unit DU.

[0170] The display module according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can be applied to display devices included in computers, notebooks, mobile phones, smart phones, smart tablets, PMPs, PDAs, MP3 players, etc. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the display device can be applied to various other small, medium, and large electronic devices.

[0171] Although the display module according to the embodiments of the present disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the described and illustrated embodiments are examples and may be modified and changed by those skilled in the relevant art without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A display module, comprising: A display unit comprising a foldable area and a non-foldable area adjacent to the foldable area; as well as a cover member provided on a rear surface of the display unit, the cover member comprising: a cover portion covering a portion of the display unit that overlaps with each of the foldable region and the unfolded region, the cover portion having at least one opening defined therein, the at least one opening exposing at least a portion of a side surface of the display unit; a first grip portion extending from the cover portion in a first direction, the first grip portion protruding to the outside of the display unit in a plan view; a second grip portion extending from the cover portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the second grip portion protruding to the outside of the display unit in the plan view; and A third grip portion is spaced apart from the second grip portion in the second direction, the third grip portion protruding to the outside of the display unit in the plan view.

2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein The non-folding area includes: a first unfolded region adjacent to a first side of the foldable region; and a second non-folding region adjacent to a second side of the foldable region opposite to the first side, the second non-folding region being spaced apart from the first non-folding region in the first direction; Wherein, the cover part comprises: a first cover portion covering a portion of the display unit that overlaps with each of the first non-folding area, the second non-folding area, and the foldable area; and The second cover portion covers a portion of the display unit that overlaps with the second unfolding area.

3. The display module according to claim 2, wherein: The first cover portion comprises: a first body portion connected to said second cover portion; a first arm portion extending from the first body portion in the first direction; a second arm portion extending from the first body portion in the second direction; a third arm portion extending from the first body portion in a direction opposite to the second direction; a first connecting portion connecting the first grip portion and the first arm portion to each other; a second connecting portion connecting the second grip portion and the second arm portion to each other; and A third connecting portion connects the third grip portion and the third arm portion to each other.

4. The display module according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one opening includes a first opening and a second opening; The first opening is defined in the second connecting portion, the first opening exposing a portion of the first side surface of the display unit that overlaps the foldable area; as well as The second opening is defined in the third connection portion, the second opening exposing a portion of a second side surface of the display unit opposite to the first side surface and overlapping with the foldable region.

5. The display module according to claim 3, wherein: The first connecting portion includes: a first base portion integral with the first arm portion and the first grip portion, the first base portion extending from an end of the first arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the first grip portion; and A first protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the first base portion in a normal direction of the upper surface of the first grip portion. The display module according to claim 3 , wherein: The second connecting portion includes: a second base portion integral with the second arm portion and the second grip portion, the second base portion extending from an end of the second arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the second grip portion; and A second protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the second base portion in a normal direction to the upper surface of the second grip portion.

7. The display module according to claim 3, wherein: The third connecting portion comprises: a third base portion integral with the third arm portion and the third grip portion, the third base portion extending from an end of the third arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the third grip portion; and The third protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the third base portion in a normal direction of the upper surface of the third gripping portion.

8. The display module according to claim 3, wherein: The cover member further includes: a fourth grip portion spaced apart from the first body portion in a direction opposite to the first direction, the fourth grip portion protruding to the outside of the display unit in the plan view, Wherein, the second cover part comprises: a second body portion connected to the first body portion; and The fourth connecting portion connects the fourth gripping portion and the second main body portion to each other.

9. The display module according to claim 8, wherein: The fourth connecting portion includes: a fourth base portion, integral with the second main body portion and the fourth grip portion, the fourth base portion extending from an end portion of the second main body portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the fourth grip portion; and A fourth protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the fourth base portion in a normal direction of the upper surface of the fourth gripping portion.

10. The display module according to claim 8, wherein: A guide hole is defined in the fourth gripping portion, the guide hole penetrating the fourth gripping portion in a thickness direction of the fourth gripping portion; as well as The fourth gripping portion has an area in the plan view that is larger than an area of ​​each of the first gripping portion, the second gripping portion, and the third gripping portion in the plan view.

11. The display module according to claim 3, further comprising: a release film, disposed between the display unit and the cover member; as well as An adhesive layer is provided between the release film and the cover member.

12. The display module according to claim 11, wherein: The display unit includes: A display panel comprising at least one pixel; a driver, disposed on the display panel; and The driver cover member covers the driver.

13. The display module according to claim 12, wherein: a third opening is defined in the second cover portion, the third opening exposing a portion of an upper surface of the drive cover member, and Wherein, the third opening does not overlap with the release film in the plan view.

14. The display module according to claim 11, wherein: At least one third opening is defined in the first cover portion, the at least one third opening exposing a portion of the rear surface of the display unit.

15. The display module according to claim 11, wherein The at least one opening exposes a portion of the release film that is in direct contact with the rear surface of the display unit and overlaps with the foldable region.

16. The display module according to claim 12, wherein: The second unfolding non-region includes a bending region bendable along a bending axis extending parallel to the second direction, and The second cover partially covers a portion of the display unit that overlaps with the bending area.

17. A display module, comprising: A display unit comprising a foldable area and a non-foldable area adjacent to the foldable area; as well as a cover member provided on a rear surface of the display unit, the cover member comprising: a main body portion, covering a portion of the display unit that overlaps with the foldable area and the non-folding area; an arm portion extending from the main body portion in a first direction or a second direction intersecting the first direction; at least one grip portion spaced apart from the arm portion, the at least one grip portion protruding to the outside of the display unit in a plan view; a base portion integral with the arm portion and the at least one grip portion, the base portion extending from a portion adjacent to the arm portion to a height coplanar with an upper surface of the at least one grip portion; and A protrusion is integrated with the base portion, and the protrusion protrudes from the base portion in a normal direction of the upper surface of the at least one grip portion.

18. The display module according to claim 17, wherein: At least one opening is defined in the base portion, the at least one opening exposing a portion of a side surface of the display unit overlapping the foldable region.

19. The display module according to claim 18, further comprising: a release film, disposed between the display unit and the cover member; as well as an adhesive layer disposed between the release film and the cover member, The at least one opening exposes a portion of the release film that is in direct contact with the rear surface of the display unit and overlaps with the foldable area.

20. The display module according to claim 17, wherein An opening is defined in the body portion, the opening exposing at least a portion of the rear surface of the display unit.

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