Display module and foldable display device

Abstract

Embodiments of the inventive concept relate to a display module and a foldable display device. The display module includes a panel member, a first support member, a second support member, a shield member, and a stretchable member. The panel component includes an array of pixels to display an image. The first support member is disposed below the panel component. The second support member is disposed below the panel member and adjacent to the first support member in a first direction. The shielding member covers a boundary region between the first support member and the second support member. The stretchable member extends to the shield member and is disposed below the first support member or the second support member. An elongation of the stretchable member is greater than an elongation of the shield member.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application No. 202110021613.3, filed on January 8, 2021, entitled "Display Module and Foldable Display Apparatus." TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments relate to a display module and a foldable display apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0003] Display apparatuses provide information to users by displaying images. Flexible display apparatuses that can be deformed to have various shapes are being developed. Flexible display apparatuses can be folded, bent, or rolled like a piece of paper. Flexible display apparatuses can be easily carried and can increase convenience for users.

[0004] It will be appreciated that the Background section is intended to provide a context for the technology described herein. However, the Background section can also include ideas, concepts or realizations that were not appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art(s) as of the priority date of the present disclosure, or that were not realized by the inventor(s) at the time the present disclosure was made. Accordingly, any statement in the Background section is not an admission that the statement was prior art to the present disclosure at the time the present disclosure was made. SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments can provide a display module having an impurity blocking structure.

[0006] Embodiments can provide a foldable display apparatus including a display module to improve reliability.

[0007] According to embodiments, a display module can include a panel part, a first support member, a second support member, a shielding member, and a stretchable member. The panel part can include an array of pixels to display an image. The first support member can be disposed under the panel part. The second support member can be disposed under the panel part and adjacent to the first support member in a first direction. The shielding member can cover a boundary area between the first support member and the second support member. The stretchable member can extend to the shielding member and be disposed under the first support member or the second support member. An elongation of the stretchable member can be greater than an elongation of the shielding member.

[0008] In embodiments, the display module can further include a hinge part extending to the first support member and the second support member. The first support member and the second support member can rotate with respect to a rotation axis of the hinge part.

[0009] In embodiments, the shielding member can include a fabric material including at least one of a woven fabric and a non-woven fabric.

[0010] In an embodiment, the shielding member can include a polymer film.

[0011] In an embodiment, the stretchable member can include a knitted fabric.

[0012] In an embodiment, the stretchable member can include a material including at least one of polyurethane, synthetic rubber, and natural rubber.

[0013] In an embodiment, the elongation of the stretchable member can be at least about 10%.

[0014] In an embodiment, a first end of the shielding member can be combined with the first support member, a second end of the shielding member can be combined with a first end of the stretchable member, and a second end of the stretchable member can be combined with the second support member.

[0015] In an embodiment, the stretchable member can include a first stretchable member combined with the first support member and a second stretchable member combined with the second support member. A first end of the shielding member can extend to the first stretchable member, and a second end of the shielding member can extend to the second stretchable member.

[0016] In an embodiment, the stretchable member can extend in series to the shielding member with respect to a tension force generated by rotation of the first support member or the second support member.

[0017] In an embodiment, a width of the stretchable member in a direction perpendicular to the tension force can be less than a width of the shielding member.

[0018] In an embodiment, the display module can further include an impact absorbing member disposed between the panel part and the first support member and the second support member.

[0019] In an embodiment, the panel part can include an organic light emitting display panel.

[0020] According to an embodiment, a foldable display device can include a panel part, a first support member, a second support member, a shielding member, a stretchable member, and a hinge part. The panel part can include a pixel array to display an image. The first support member can be disposed under the panel part. The second support member can be disposed under the panel part and adjacent to the first support member in a first direction. The shielding member can cover a boundary area between the first support member and the second support member. The stretchable member can extend to the shielding member and be disposed under the first support member or the second support member. An elongation rate of the stretchable member can be greater than an elongation rate of the shielding member. The hinge part can be disposed under the shielding member.

[0021] In an embodiment, the hinge part can include a first connection member combined with the first support member, a second connection member combined with the second support member, a first rotary sliding member combined with the first connection member and including a sliding surface having an arc shape, a second rotary sliding member combined with the second connection member and including a sliding surface having an arc shape, a hinge frame including a guide surface facing the sliding surface of the first rotary sliding member and the sliding surface of the second rotary sliding member, and a hinge cover covering the hinge frame.

[0022] In an embodiment, a portion of the stretchable member can be disposed between the second support member and the second connection member.

[0023] In an embodiment, the shielding member can include an opening through which the hinge part extends to the first support member and the second support member.

[0024] In an embodiment, the shielding member can include a material including at least one of a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, and a polymer film.

[0025] In an embodiment, the stretchable member can include a material including at least one of a knitted fabric, a polyurethane, a synthetic rubber, and a natural rubber.

[0026] In an embodiment, one end of the shielding member can be combined with the first connection member, and one end of the stretchable member can be combined with the second connection member.

[0027] In an embodiment, the panel part can include an organic light emitting display panel.

[0028] According to an embodiment, a display module and a display apparatus can include a shielding member to block impurities from entering a panel part from a hinge part. The shielding member, to which wear can be applied when the display apparatus can be folded or unfolded, can include a highly durable material. A stretchable member including a stretchable material can be extended to the shielding member to allow sliding of the shielding member. Accordingly, damage to the shielding member or functional deterioration of an impurity blocking structure including the shielding member can be prevented. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] Aspects of one or more embodiments of the present inventive concepts will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view illustrating a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 3 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 4 is an enlarged schematic bottom view illustrating a region 'A' of Figure 3 .

[0034] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 4 .

[0035] Figure 6 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figures 7 to 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a hinge region of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 11 is an enlarged schematic view illustrating a configuration of a shielding member of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 12 is an enlarged schematic view illustrating a configuration and elongation of a stretchable member of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a panel part of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0040] Figure 14 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV' of Figure 14

[0042] Figure 16 and Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display module according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] A display device according to embodiments of the inventive concept will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments are shown.

[0044] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] When an element is described as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or indirectly on the other element, with one or more intervening elements interposed therebetween. For example, there can be an intervening element.

[0046] For the purpose of the phrase's meaning and interpretation, the phrase "at least one of (a kind)" is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from a group of (a kind)". For example, "at least one of A and B" can be interpreted to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0047] For the purpose of the phrase's meaning and interpretation, the term "and / or" is intended to include any combination of the term "and" and "or". For example, "A and / or B" can be interpreted to mean "A, B, or A and B". The terms "and" and "or" can be used in a conjunctive or disjunctive sense and can be interpreted as equivalent to "and / or".

[0048] "About" or "approximately," as used in the present disclosure, includes the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, considering the measurement in question and the error intended to be introduced by the measurement system. For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, or ±5% of the stated value.

[0049] The term "overlapping" can include layering, stacking, facing, extending above, extending below, covering, or partially covering, or any other suitable term as would be appreciated and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0050] ​Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in the specification.

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view illustrating a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 1 shows a folded foldable display apparatus, and Figure 2 shows an unfolded foldable display apparatus.

[0052] A foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment can include a display module 100 and a cover module 200. In the display apparatus, an area in which an image can be displayed can be defined as a display area DA, and an area which can not display an image and can be adjacent to the display area DA can be defined as a peripheral area PA.

[0053] The display module 100 can include a screen to display an image. The display module 100 can include a pixel array which emits light through the screen. For example, the pixel array can generate light or can adjust the transmittance of light provided from an external light source to display an image.

[0054] In an embodiment, the display module 100 can include a flexible display panel which can be bent or folded by, for example, an external force. For example, the display module 100 can include an organic light emitting display panel.

[0055] The cover module 200 can be combined with the display module 100. The cover module 200 can accommodate the display module 100. The cover module 200 can cover at least a lower surface of the display module 100. For example, the cover module 200 can include a first cover portion 210 which can be combined with a first area 100a of the display module 100, and a second cover portion 220 which can be combined with a second area 100b of the display module 100. The cover module 200 can also cover side surfaces of the display module 100 and / or cover a portion of an upper surface of the display module 100.

[0056] The first cover portion 210 can be adjacent to the second cover portion 220 in the first direction D1. The first cover portion 210 and the second cover portion 220 can be combined with the hinge member 230 to rotate about the hinge member 230. The first cover portion 210 and the second cover portion 220 can be rotatable about a rotation axis of the hinge member 230. Accordingly, the display device can be bent or folded. For example, the hinge member 230 and the rotation axis can extend in a second direction D2 crossing the first direction D1.

[0057] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment. Figure 4 FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom view illustrating Figure 3 FIG. 3 is an enlarged schematic bottom view of area 'A' of Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 4 FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of

[0058] Referring to Figures 3 to 5 , the display module 100 can include a panel member PN (see Figure 5 ). In an embodiment, the panel member PN can include an organic light emitting display panel.

[0059] Support members 10a and 10b can be disposed under the panel member PN. For example, the display module 100 can include a first support member 10a disposed in a first area 100a and a second support member 10b disposed in a second area 100b.

[0060] The first support member 10a can be adjacent to the second support member 10b in the first direction D1. For example, the first support member 10a can be spaced apart from the second support member 10b. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, when the display module 100 can be unfolded, the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b can be substantially in contact with each other.

[0061] The first support member 10a and the second support member 10b can include a rigid material to support the panel member PN. For example, the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b can include a metal, a polymer material, or a combination thereof.

[0062] The display module 100 can further include an impact absorbing member CU (see Figure 5 ). For example, the impact absorbing member CU can be disposed between the panel member PN and the support members 10a and 10b.

[0063] For example, the impact absorbing member CU can have a porous structure. The impact absorbing member CU having the porous structure can absorb an impact applied from the outside to the display module 100 to protect the panel member PN. In addition, the impact absorbing member CU can block impurities from entering the panel member PN.

[0064] For example, the impact absorbing member CU can include a foam body formed of a polymer material. For example, the impact absorbing member CU can include a foam body formed of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a combination thereof.

[0065] In another embodiment, the impact absorbing member CU can be omitted or can be partially disposed between the panel member PN and the support members 10a and 10b.

[0066] In an embodiment, the display module 100 can include a shielding member 310 and a stretchable member 320 extending to the shielding member 310 (see Figure 3 ). The shielding member 310 can cover a boundary region between the first region 100a and the second region 100b to block impurities from a region below the shielding member 310 from entering the display module 100.

[0067] In an embodiment, the shielding member 310 can be disposed on a lower surface of the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b (e.g., below the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b), and can be combined with the first support member 10a. The stretchable member 320 can be disposed on a lower surface of the second support member 10b, and can be combined with the second support member 10b.

[0068] In an embodiment, as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 , a first end of the shielding member 310 can be combined with the first support member 10a, and a second end of the shielding member 310 can be combined with a first end of the stretchable member 320. A second end of the stretchable member 320 can be combined with the second support member 10b. For example, the shielding member 310 can be combined with the first support member 10a by a first adhesive member 332. The shielding member 310 can be combined with the stretchable member 320 by a second adhesive member 334. The stretchable member 320 can be combined with the second support member 10b by a third adhesive member 336. For example, the first adhesive member 332 can have a shape extending in the second direction D2.

[0069] In an embodiment, the shielding member 310 can not be directly combined with the second support member 10b, and can be indirectly combined with the second support member 10b through a stretchable member 320 having stretchability. Accordingly, with respect to a tension force applied to the shielding member 310 by rotation of the first support member 10a or the second support member 10b, the stretchable member 320 can be serially extended to the shielding member 310. Accordingly, an end of the shielding member 310 disposed under the second support member 10b can serve as a free end that can slide on the second support member 10b when the display module 100 can be folded or bent.

[0070] In an embodiment, the shielding member 310 can include a highly durable material. Accordingly, when the display module 100 can be folded or bent, damage to the shielding member 310 can be prevented or reduced even though wear can be caused between the shielding member 310 and the corners of the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b.

[0071] For example, the highly durable material can have a relatively large abrasion resistance and a relatively small elongation. For example, the highly durable material can have an elongation equal to or less than about 5%. Also, the highly durable material can have sufficient flexibility to be bendable or foldable in response to deformation of the display device.

[0072] For example, the shielding member 310 can include a fabric material such as a woven fabric or a non-woven fabric. The above fabric material can have a relatively large abrasion resistance and a relatively large flexibility. Accordingly, when the display module 100 can be folded or bent, the shielding member 310 including the fabric material can be close to the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b. Accordingly, a lower area required for bending the display module 100 can be reduced, and impurities entering the display module 100 can be effectively blocked. For example, fibers forming the fabric material can include polyamide such as nylon, polycarbonate, polyketone, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, or a combination thereof.

[0073] In another embodiment, the shielding member 310 can include a polymer film. For example, the polymer film can include a material having a relatively large abrasion resistance such as polycarbonate, polyketone, polyethylene terephthalate, or a combination thereof. Also, the polymer film can be coated with an abrasion-resistant material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoropolyether, or fluorine-containing silicone resin, or a combination thereof.

[0074] In an embodiment, the stretchable member 320 can include a stretchable material. For example, the stretchable member 320 can include a fabric material having a woven structure. The fabric material having the woven structure can have a relatively large stretchability suitable for the impurity blocking structure and can have a relatively large durability. For example, fibers forming the woven structure can include a polyamide such as nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, a polyolefin, a polyurethane, or a combination thereof.

[0075] In another embodiment, the stretchable member 320 can include a stretchable film. The stretchable film can include a stretchable material such as a polyurethane, a synthetic rubber, or a natural rubber, or the like, or a combination thereof.

[0076] For example, the stretchable member 320 can have an elongation of at least about 10%, and can have an elongation of at least about 40%, which can be a maximum elongation up to a yield point.

[0077] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the stretchable member 320 can have a width in a direction perpendicular to the tension force that is less than a width of the shielding member 310. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. The stretchable member 320 can have various designs and sizes depending on a required strain and arrangement of the shielding member 310.

[0078] Figure 6 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment. Figures 7 to 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a hinge area of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 7 and Figure 9 may illustrate a cross-section taken along Figure 6 line II-II' of Figure 8 and Figure 10 may illustrate a cross-section taken along Figure 6 line III-III' of Figure 11 is an enlarged schematic view illustrating a configuration of a shielding member of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 12 is an enlarged schematic view illustrating a configuration and an elongation of a stretchable member of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0079] Referring to Figures 6 to 8 , a display apparatus can include a display module 100 and a cover module 200 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The cover module 200 can include a hinge part 230 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), a first bottom cover 211, and a second bottom cover 221.

[0080] The display module 100 can be coupled to the cover module 200 with reference to Figures 3 to 5The previously explained display module 100 is substantially the same. For example, the display module 100 may include a panel component PN, an impact-absorbing component CU, a first support member 10a, a second support member 10b, a shielding member 310 that can cover the boundary region between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, and a stretchable member 320 that is combined with the second support member 10b and extends to the shielding member 310. For example, the shielding member 310 may be combined with the first support member 10a via a first adhesive member 332. The shielding member 310 may be combined with the stretchable member 320 via a second adhesive member 334. The stretchable member 320 may be combined with the second support member 10b via a third adhesive member 336.

[0081] The hinge component 230 can be combined with the display module 100. For example, the hinge component 230 can be disposed on the lower surface of the folding area of ​​the display module 100. Therefore, the hinge component 230 can overlap with the boundary area between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b. The first bottom cover 211 can cover the lower surface of the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second bottom cover 221 can cover the lower surface of the second support member 10b of the display module 100.

[0082] In one embodiment, the hinge component 230 may include a hinge frame 236, a first rotary sliding member 232a, a second rotary sliding member 232b, a first connecting member 231a, a second connecting member 231b, and a hinge cover 234. In another embodiment, the rotary sliding members 232a and 232b, combined with the connecting members 231a and 231b, can slide on the hinge frame 236. Therefore, the connecting members 231a and 231b, as well as the support members 10a and 10b connected to the connecting members 231a and 231b, can rotate.

[0083] The first connecting member 231a can be combined with the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second connecting member 231b can be combined with the second support member 10b of the display module 100. (Refer to...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 A space may be defined between the first support member 10a and the first connecting member 231a. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the first support member 10a and the first connecting member 231a may be in partial or complete contact with each other. For example, the first connecting member 231a may be disposed on the exposed lower surface of the first support member 10a, so as not to face the lower surface of the shielding member 310.

[0084] When the second connection member 231b can be disposed under the stretchable member 320, a space can be defined between the second connection member 231b and the second support member 10b to allow the elongation of the stretchable member 320 and the sliding of the shielding member 310. For example, the second connection member 231b can be combined with the exposed lower surface of the second support member 10b, and can be designed to form an accommodation space by a suitable process, so that the second connection member 231b can not contact the shielding member 310 and the stretchable member 320.

[0085] The first connection member 231a can be adjacent to the second connection member 231b in the first direction D1, and can be rotated in a different direction. For example, when the display apparatus can be unfolded, the first connection member 231a can be spaced apart from the second connection member 231b in the first direction D1. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, when the display apparatus can be unfolded, the first connection member 231a can substantially contact the second connection member 231b.

[0086] The first connection member 231a and the second connection member 231b can serve as a bracket of the hinge part 230. For example, the first connection member 231a and the second connection member 231b can be metal plates, respectively. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first connection member 231a and the second connection member 231b can include a polymer or the like.

[0087] In an embodiment, the hinge frame 236 can include a first guide portion 236a and a second guide portion 236b. The first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b can have guide surfaces that guide the rotation of the first rotating sliding member 232a and the second rotating sliding member 232b, respectively. The guide surfaces can have an arc shape having a curvature. The hinge frame 236 can have a shape extending in the second direction D2.

[0088] In an embodiment, the first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b can extend to each other, so that the hinge frame 236 can have a cross-section of a double-arc shape. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first guide portion 236a and the second guide portion 236b can be separated from each other, or the hinge frame 236 can have a cross-section of a single-arc shape.

[0089] The first rotary sliding member 232a can be combined with the first connection member 231a and can slide along a guide surface of the first guide portion 236a. Accordingly, the first rotary sliding member 232a and the first connection member 231a can rotate about the first rotary axis. In an embodiment, the first rotary sliding member 232a can overlap a boundary region between the first connection member 231a and the second connection member 231b. Accordingly, the first rotary sliding member 232a can overlap a portion of the second connection member 231b.

[0090] The second rotary sliding member 232b can be combined with the second connection member 231b and can slide along a guide surface of the second guide portion 236b. Accordingly, the second rotary sliding member 232b and the second connection member 231b can rotate about the second rotary axis. In an embodiment, the second rotary sliding member 232b can overlap a boundary region between the first connection member 231a and the second connection member 231b. Accordingly, the second rotary sliding member 232b can overlap a portion of the first connection member 231a.

[0091] Referring to Figure 6 The number of the rotary sliding members 232a and 232b can be four. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and a display device according to an embodiment can have a suitable number of rotary sliding members 232a and 232b.

[0092] The hinge cover 234 can cover the hinge frame 236. For example, the hinge cover 234 can have a shape extending in the second direction D2. For example, the hinge cover 234 can have a cross-section having an arc shape.

[0093] The first bottom cover 211 and the second bottom cover 221 can rotate about the hinge part 230, respectively. For example, the first bottom cover 211 and the second bottom cover 221 can rotate about a rotary axis along an outer cylindrical surface of the hinge cover 234.

[0094] Even though not shown, the hinge part 230 can further include a cam structure for synchronizing the motions of the rotary sliding members 232a and 232b or a hinge housing for fixing the hinge frame 236, etc.

[0095] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A folded display device is illustrated. Referring to Figure 9The first rotary sliding member 232a includes a sliding surface having an arc shape. When the display apparatus can be unfolded, the sliding surface of the first rotary sliding member 232a faces a guide surface of the first guide portion 236a of the hinge frame 236. When a force can be applied to the display apparatus to fold the display apparatus, the first rotary sliding member 232a can slide along the guide surface of the first guide portion 236a to rotate about the first rotary axis. Accordingly, the first rotary sliding member 232a, the first connecting member 231a combined with the first rotary sliding member 232a, and the first bottom cover 211 disposed under the first connecting member 231a can rotate about the first rotary axis.

[0096] Referring to Figure 10 When a force can be applied to the display apparatus to fold the display apparatus, the second rotary sliding member 232b can slide along the guide surface of the second guide portion 236b to rotate about the second rotary axis. Accordingly, the second rotary sliding member 232b, the second connecting member 231b combined with the second rotary sliding member 232b, and the second bottom cover 221 disposed under the second connecting member 231b can rotate about the second rotary axis.

[0097] In an embodiment, the display module 100 can be combined with the first connecting member 231a and the second connecting member 231b. Accordingly, the display module 100 can be folded or unfolded depending on the operation of the hinge part 230.

[0098] When the display module 100 can be folded or bent, the distance between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b can increase. In an embodiment, since the shielding member 310 can be combined with the second support member 10b through the stretchable member 320, the position of the shielding member 310 can not be fixed to the second support member 10b. Accordingly, the shielding member 310 can slide on the second support member 10b.

[0099] If the shielding member 310 can be fixed to both the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, the shielding member 310 can be damaged due to forced strain since the shielding member 310 has a relatively small elongation rate. If the shielding member 310 includes a stretchable material to increase the elongation rate, the shielding member 310 can be easily damaged due to abrasion or can be irreversibly deformed.

[0100] In an embodiment, the shielding member 310 can include a material having a relatively large abrasion resistance. Accordingly, damage due to abrasion can be prevented. Furthermore, the shielding member 310 can extend to the stretchable member 320 which can be elongated when the display module 100 can be deformed. Accordingly, damage or irreversible deformation of the shielding member 310 due to forced strain can be prevented.

[0101] When the stretchable member 320 can be elongated, a tension force can be applied to the shielding member 310. Accordingly, the shielding member 310 can be close to the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b, thereby effectively blocking impurities.

[0102] In an embodiment, the shielding member 310 can include a woven fabric including warp threads and weft threads, as shown in FIG. 1B. However, the configuration of the shielding member 310 is not limited thereto. For example, the shielding member 310 can have a fabric configuration having greater abrasion resistance, such as twill cloth. Figure 11

[0103] In an embodiment, the stretchable member 320 can include a knitted fabric. The knitted fabric can be easily elongated in the direction of a tension force and can be easily restored when the tension force can be removed, as shown in FIG. 1C. Figure 12

[0104] Figure 13 FIG. 1A is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a panel part of a foldable display apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 2, Figure 13 the pixel of the panel part PN can include a driving element disposed on a base substrate 110 and a light emitting element electrically connected to the driving element. In an embodiment, the light emitting element can be an organic light emitting diode. The driving element can include at least one thin film transistor.

[0106] A buffer layer 120 can be disposed on the base substrate 110. An active pattern AP can be disposed on the buffer layer 120.

[0107] For example, the base substrate 110 can include glass, quartz, sapphire, or a polymer material, or the like, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the base substrate 110 can be a flexible substrate including a polymer material. For example, the base substrate 110 can include polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyether ketone, polycarbonate, polyarylate, polyether sulfone, polyimide, or a combination thereof.

[0108] The panel part PN can further include a support substrate disposed below the base substrate 110.

[0109] The buffer layer 120 can prevent or reduce impurities, moisture, or external gases from permeating from below the base substrate 110, and can planarize an upper surface of the base substrate 110. For example, the buffer layer 120 can include an inorganic material such as an oxide or a nitride, or the like, or a combination thereof.

[0110] A first gate metal pattern including a gate electrode GE can be disposed on the active pattern AP. A first insulating layer 130 can be disposed between the active pattern AP and the gate electrode GE.

[0111] ​​A second gate metal pattern including a capacitor electrode pattern CE can be disposed on the gate electrode GE. The capacitor electrode pattern CE can include a capacitor electrode for forming a capacitor or a wiring for transmitting various signals, etc.

[0112] A second insulating layer 140 can be disposed between the gate electrode GE and the capacitor electrode pattern CE. A third insulating layer 150 can be disposed on the capacitor electrode pattern CE.

[0113] For example, the active pattern AP can include silicon, metal oxide semiconductor, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the active pattern AP can include polycrystalline silicon (poly-silicon) which can be doped with an n-type impurity or a p-type impurity.

[0114] In another embodiment or in another transistor not shown, the active pattern AP can include a metal oxide semiconductor. For example, the active pattern AP can include a binary compound (AB x ), a ternary compound (AB x C y ), or a quaternary compound (AB x C y D z ) including indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), magnesium (Mg), or a combination thereof. For example, the active pattern AP can include zinc oxide (ZnO x ), gallium oxide (GaO x ), titanium oxide (TiO x ), tin oxide (SnO x ), indium oxide (InO x ), indium gallium oxide (IGO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin oxide (ITO), gallium zinc oxide (GZO), zinc magnesium oxide (ZMO), zinc tin oxide (ZTO), zinc zirconium oxide (ZnZr x O y ), indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO), indium gallium hafnium oxide (IGHO), tin aluminum zinc oxide (TAZO), or indium gallium tin oxide (IGTO), etc., or a combination thereof.

[0115] The first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or a combination thereof. In addition, the first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can include an insulating metal oxide such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, or titanium oxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the first, second, and third insulating layers 130, 140, and 150 can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide, respectively, or can have different structures from each other.

[0116] The gate electrode GE and the capacitor electrode pattern CE can include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, or a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the gate electrode GE and the capacitor electrode pattern CE can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or an alloy thereof, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including different metal layers.

[0117] The first source metal pattern can be disposed on the third insulating layer 150. The first source metal pattern can include a source electrode SE and a drain electrode DE electrically contacting the active pattern AP. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE can respectively pass through the insulating layer disposed under the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE to contact the active pattern AP.

[0118] The first source metal pattern can include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, or a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the first source metal pattern can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or an alloy thereof, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including different metal layers. In an embodiment, the first source metal pattern can have a multi-layer structure including an aluminum layer.

[0119] The fourth insulating layer 160 can be disposed on the first source metal pattern. The fourth insulating layer 160 can include an organic material. For example, the fourth insulating layer 160 can include an organic insulating material such as a phenol resin, an acrylic resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, a siloxane resin, or an epoxy resin, or a combination thereof.

[0120] An organic light emitting diode 180 can be disposed on the fourth insulating layer 160. The organic light emitting diode 180 can include a first electrode 182 electrically contacting the drain electrode DE, an organic light emitting layer 184 disposed on the first electrode 182, and a second electrode 186 disposed on the organic light emitting layer 184. The organic light emitting layer 184 of the organic light emitting diode 180 can be disposed at least in the opening of the pixel definition layer 170 disposed on the fourth insulating layer 160. The first electrode 182 can be a lower electrode of the organic light emitting diode 180, and the second electrode 186 can be an upper electrode of the organic light emitting diode 180.

[0121] The first electrode 182 can function as an anode. For example, according to an emission type of the display device, the first electrode 182 can be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode. When the first electrode 182 can be a transmissive electrode, the first electrode 182 can include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, or tin oxide, or a combination thereof. When the first electrode 182 can be a reflective electrode, the first electrode 182 can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), or titanium (Ti), or a combination thereof, and can have a stacked structure further including a material that can be used for a transmissive electrode.

[0122] The pixel definition layer 170 has an opening overlapping at least a portion of the first electrode 182. For example, the pixel definition layer 170 can include an organic insulating material.

[0123] The organic light emitting layer 184 can include at least a light emitting layer, and can further include at least one of a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). For example, the organic light emitting layer 184 can include a low molecular weight organic compound or a high molecular weight organic compound.

[0124] In an embodiment, the organic light emitting layer 184 can emit red light, green light, or blue light. In another embodiment, the organic light emitting layer 184 can emit white light. The organic light emitting layer 184 emitting white light can have a multi-layer structure including a red emission layer, a green emission layer, and a blue emission layer, or can have a single layer structure including a mixture of a red emission material, a green emission material, and a blue emission material.

[0125] According to an emission type of the display device, the second electrode 186 can be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode. For example, the second electrode 186 can include a metal, a metal alloy, a metal nitride, a metal fluoride, a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof.

[0126] For example, at least one of the organic light emitting layers 184 and the second electrode 186 can be formed as a common layer continuously extending over the plurality of pixels in the display area DA.

[0127] An encapsulation layer 190 can be disposed on the organic light emitting diode 180. The encapsulation layer 190 can have a stacked structure of an inorganic thin film and an organic thin film. For example, the encapsulation layer 190 can include a first inorganic thin film 192, an organic thin film 194 disposed on the first inorganic thin film 192, and a second inorganic thin film 196 disposed on the organic thin film 194.

[0128] A protective window WN can be disposed on the encapsulation layer 190. For example, the protective window WN can include a polymer material, a glass thin film, or a combination thereof to have flexibility.

[0129] At least one of a touch sensing structure and a polarizing layer can be disposed between the encapsulation layer 190 and the protective window WN, as needed.

[0130] A support base can be disposed under the base base 110. The support base can have an opening to reduce a bending stress in the bending area.

[0131] Figure 14 is a schematic bottom view illustrating a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along Figure 14 line IV-IV' of FIG. 1A. Figure 14 may illustrate a display device excluding a back cover, a hinge cover, and a hinge frame, and Figure 15 may illustrate a display device including a back cover, a hinge cover, and a hinge frame.

[0132] Referring to Figure 14 and Figure 15 , the display device can include a display module 100 and a cover module 200 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The cover module 200 can include a hinge part 230 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), a first back cover 211, and a second back cover 221.

[0133] For example, the display module 100 can include a panel part PN, an impact absorbing member CU, a first support member 10a, a second support member 10b, and a shielding member 312 covering a boundary area between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b and a stretchable member 320 combined with the second support member 10b and extending to the shielding member 312.

[0134] For example, the hinge part 230 can be disposed on a lower surface of a folding area of the display module 100. Accordingly, the hinge part 230 can overlap a boundary area between the first support member 10a and the second support member 10b. The first bottom cover 211 can cover a lower surface of the first support member 10a of the display module 100. The second bottom cover 221 can cover a lower surface of the second support member 10b of the display module 100.

[0135] In an embodiment, the hinge part 230 can include a hinge frame 236, a first rotary sliding member 233a, a second rotary sliding member 233b, and a hinge cover 234.

[0136] In an embodiment, the shielding member 312 includes openings 314a and 314b through which the rotary sliding members 233a and 233b of the hinge part 230 can be combined with the support members 10a and 10b.

[0137] For example, the shielding member 312 includes a first opening 314a overlapping the first support member 10a and a second opening 314b overlapping the second support member 10b. The fixed part 235a of the first rotary sliding member 233a can pass through the first opening 314a to extend to a lower surface of the first support member 10a. The fixed part 235b of the second rotary sliding member 233b can pass through the second opening 314b to extend to a lower surface of the second support member 10b. The first rotary sliding member 233a and the second rotary sliding member 233b can extend from the fixed parts 235a and 235b, respectively, to face a lower surface of the shielding member 312 in a lateral direction (i.e., in the first direction D1).

[0138] A first end of the shielding member 312 can be fixed to a lower surface of the first support member 10a by a first adhesive member 332. A second end of the shielding member 312 can be fixed to a first end of the stretchable member 320 by a second adhesive member 334. A second end of the stretchable member 320 can be fixed to a lower surface of the second support member 10b by a third adhesive member 336.

[0139] In an embodiment, the hinge part 230 can be combined with the support members 10a and 10b without an additional connecting member. Such a configuration can reduce the thickness of the display apparatus.

[0140] Figure 16 and Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display module according to an embodiment.

[0141] Referring to Figure 16The first adhesive member 332 that fixes the first end of the shielding member 310 to the first support member 10a can be a single-sided tape having an adhesive layer on one surface thereof. For example, the first adhesive member 332 can be partially adhered to the lower surface of the first support member 10a, and can be partially adhered to the lower surface of the shielding member 310. An adhesive member having substantially the same configuration can be used for the second adhesive member 334 that combines the shielding member 310 with the stretchable member 320, or the third adhesive member 336 that combines the stretchable member 320 with the second support member 10b.

[0142] Referring to Figure 17 The stretchable members 322a and 322b can extend to both ends of the shielding member 310.

[0143] For example, the first stretchable member 322a can extend to the first end of the shielding member 310, and the second stretchable member 322b can extend to the second end of the shielding member 310. The first stretchable member 322a can be combined with the first support member 10a, and the second stretchable member 322b can be combined with the second support member 10b. The second adhesive members 334a, 334b and the third adhesive members 336a, 336b can have substantially the same configuration as the configuration described above.

[0144] The above embodiments provide an organic light emitting display device. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the embodiments can be applied to a hinge structure of a display device such as a liquid crystal display device, an electroluminescent display device, or a micro LED display device.

[0145] The embodiments can be applied to various display devices. In the embodiments, for example, the embodiments can be applied to a vehicle display device, a ship display device, an aircraft display device, a portable communication device, a display device for display or for information transmission, a medical display device, or the like.

[0146] The foregoing is a summary of the embodiments and is not to be construed as limiting the embodiments. Although the embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and aspects of the inventive concept. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is a description of various embodiments and is not to be construed as limiting the disclosed embodiments, and that modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept.

Claims

1. A display module, wherein, The display module includes: Panel components, including a pixel array for displaying images; Support members are disposed below the panel components; and The shielding member and the stretchable member are disposed below the supporting member. The supporting member includes a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion adjacent to the first supporting portion in a first direction. The shielding member covers the area between the first support portion and the second support portion. The stretchable member extends to the shielding member and is disposed below the first support portion or the second support portion, wherein the elongation of the stretchable member is greater than the elongation of the shielding member.

2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The display module further includes a hinge component extending to the first support portion and the second support portion, wherein the first support portion and the second support portion rotate relative to the rotation axis of the hinge component.

3. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The shielding component includes a fabric material, which includes at least one of woven fabric and non-woven fabric.

4. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The shielding component includes a polymer film.

5. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The stretchable component includes a knitted fabric.

6. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The stretchable component includes at least one of polyurethane, synthetic rubber, and natural rubber.

7. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The elongation of the stretchable member is at least 10%.

8. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The first end of the shielding member is combined with the first support portion. The second end of the shielding member is combined with the first end of the stretchable member, and The second end of the stretchable member is combined with the second support portion.

9. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The stretchable member includes: The first stretchable member, combined with the first support portion, and The second stretchable member is combined with the second support portion. The first end of the shielding member extends into the first stretchable member, and The second end of the shielding member extends into the second stretchable member.

10. The display module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The tensile force generated by the rotation of the first support or the second support is applied to the shielding member through the stretchable member. In this context, corresponding to the tensile force, the stretchable member extends serially into the shielding member.

11. The display module according to claim 10, wherein, The width of the stretchable member in the direction perpendicular to the tensile force is smaller than the width of the shielding member.

12. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The display module further includes an impact-absorbing component disposed between the panel component and the first support and the second support.

13. The display module according to claim 1, wherein, The panel component includes an organic light-emitting display panel.

14. A foldable display device, wherein, The foldable display device includes: Panel components, including a pixel array for displaying images; Supporting components are disposed below the panel components; A shielding member and a stretchable member are disposed below the supporting member; and The hinge component is located below the shielding member. The supporting member includes a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion adjacent to the first supporting portion in a first direction. The shielding member covers the area between the first support portion and the second support portion. The stretchable member extends to the shielding member and is disposed below the first support portion or the second support portion, wherein the elongation of the stretchable member is greater than the elongation of the shielding member.

15. The foldable display device according to claim 14, wherein, The hinge component includes: The first connecting member is combined with the first supporting part; The second connecting member is combined with the second support portion; A first rotary sliding member, combined with the first connecting member, includes a sliding surface having an arcuate shape; The second rotary sliding member is combined with the second connecting member and includes a sliding surface having an arcuate shape; A hinge frame, including a guide surface facing the sliding surface of the first rotary sliding member and the sliding surface of the second rotary sliding member; and A hinge cover that covers the hinge frame.

16. The foldable display device according to claim 15, wherein, A portion of the stretchable member is disposed between the second support and the second connecting member.

17. The foldable display device according to claim 14, wherein, The shielding member includes an opening through which the hinge component extends to the first support and the second support.

18. The foldable display device according to claim 14, wherein, The shielding component includes at least one of woven fabric, non-woven fabric, and polymer film.

19. The foldable display device according to claim 14, wherein, The stretchable component includes at least one of knitted fabric, polyurethane, synthetic rubber, and natural rubber.

20. The foldable display device according to claim 15, wherein, One end of the shielding member is combined with the first connecting member, and One end of the stretchable member is combined with the second connecting member.

21. The foldable display device according to any one of claims 14 to 20, wherein, The panel component includes an organic light-emitting display panel, and / or The tensile force generated by the rotation of the first support or the second support is applied to the shielding member through the stretchable member.

Images