Display device

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment includes: a display panel; a support member on a rear surface of the display panel and including a plurality of first openings; and an adhesive layer between the display panel and the support member and overlapping the plurality of first openings, in which each of the plurality of first openings has a first length in a first direction and a second length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in a plan view, in which the first length is longer than the second length, and in which the second length is longer than the first length. And the adhesive layer overlaps all of the plurality of first openings.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device and an electronic device including the display device. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart TVs, include display devices for displaying images. The display device generates an image and provides the generated image to the user via a screen.

[0003] Recent technological advancements in display devices have led to the development of various types of display devices. For example, display devices that can be deformed into bent, folded, or rolled shapes are under development. These display devices are portable and can enhance user convenience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments attempt to provide a display device that is easy to bend and has an externally invisible opening defined in a support member, and an electronic device including the display device.

[0005] The display device according to an embodiment includes: a display panel; a support member located on the rear surface of the display panel and including a plurality of first openings; and an adhesive layer located between the display panel and the support member and overlapping the plurality of first openings, wherein, in a plan view, each of the plurality of first openings has a first length in a first direction and a second length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first length is longer than the second length, and the adhesive layer overlaps all of the plurality of first openings.

[0006] The supporting member may include a first area having multiple first openings and a second area other than the first area, and the area of ​​the first area may be larger than the area of ​​the second area.

[0007] The display panel may include a display area and a non-display area, and multiple first openings may be set in the display area.

[0008] The display panel can be folded or slid around an axis parallel to the first direction.

[0009] The adhesive layer can be in direct contact with multiple first openings.

[0010] It may further include a release layer located on the rear surface of the support member.

[0011] The release layer may include a first sublayer in contact with the support member and a second sublayer located on the rear surface of the first sublayer.

[0012] The first sublayer may include a second opening that overlaps with one or more of the plurality of first openings.

[0013] The second opening can extend in the second direction.

[0014] The second opening may intersect with one or more first openings.

[0015] The first sublayer may include a plurality of second openings disposed in the first direction.

[0016] Multiple second openings can have different corresponding widths.

[0017] The second opening can extend in a direction that is inclined relative to the first and second directions.

[0018] The display device according to an embodiment includes: a display panel; a support member located on a rear surface of the display panel and including a plurality of first openings; an adhesive layer located between the display panel and the support member and overlapping the plurality of first openings; and a release layer located on the rear surface of the support member and having a second opening defined therein, wherein each of the plurality of first openings has a shape extending in a first direction in a plane, and the second opening intersects one or more of the plurality of first openings.

[0019] The release layer may include a first sublayer having a second opening and a second sublayer located on the rear surface of the first sublayer.

[0020] The second opening can extend from one end of the first sublayer to the other end of the first sublayer.

[0021] The second opening can extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0022] The release layer may include a plurality of second openings disposed in the first direction.

[0023] The display panel can be folded or slid around an axis parallel to the first direction.

[0024] The display panel may include a display area and a non-display area, and multiple first openings may be set in the display area.

[0025] The support member may include a first area having multiple first openings and a second area other than the first area, and the area of ​​the first area may be larger than the area of ​​the second area.

[0026] The adhesive layer can cover all of the multiple first openings.

[0027] According to embodiments, the display device can be easily bent. In some aspects, a display device having an externally invisible opening defined in a support member and an electronic device including the display device are provided. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2A and Figure 2B It is a diagram used to describe various states of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3A It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A', and Figure 3B It is along Figure 2B The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the display panel, support member, and release layer according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a top view illustrating the release layer and support member according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the release layer and support member according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13A and Figure 13B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figures 14 to 19 This is a top view of the support member and release layer according to the embodiment.

[0039] Figure 20 The image is based on a display device for a comparative example.

[0040] Figure 21 These are images of a display device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] For the sake of brevity in describing this disclosure, parts irrelevant to the description may be omitted, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals and / or reference characters denote the same or similar constituent elements.

[0043] Furthermore, since the dimensions and thicknesses of the components illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be arbitrarily given for better understanding and ease of description, this disclosure is not limited to the dimensions and thicknesses illustrated. In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of layers and regions have been exaggerated for clarity. In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions may be exaggerated for better understanding and ease of description.

[0044] It should be understood that when an element, such as a layer, film, region, or substrate, is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on that other element, or there may be an intervening element. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there is no intervening element. Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "on" or "above" refer to being located on or below a portion of an object, and do not necessarily mean being located on the upper side of a portion of an object based on the direction of gravity.

[0045] In some respects, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the word “comprising” and its variations (such as “including” and “containing”) should be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated element, but not to exclude any other element.

[0046] Furthermore, throughout this specification, the phrase "in a plane" refers to the view of a portion of an object from above, and the phrase "in a cross-sectional view" refers to the view of a cross-section obtained by vertically cutting the portion of the object from the side. Terms such as "first" and "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. Terms used herein may distinguish one component from others, and these components should not be limited by these terms. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component. Unless otherwise stated, singular terms may include plural forms.

[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, “a,” “the,” and “at least one” do not indicate a limitation of quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, “an element” has the same meaning as “at least one element” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” shall not be construed as limiting “a.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] As used herein, the term "substantially" means approximately or actually equal. The term "substantially equal" means approximately or actually equal. The term "substantially identical" means approximately or actually identical. The term "substantially equivalent" means approximately or actually equivalent. The term "substantially perpendicular" means approximately or actually perpendicular.

[0049] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “over” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the figures and another element(s). It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, the element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” those other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0050] Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views, which are schematic illustrations of exemplary embodiments. Therefore, variations in the shapes of the illustrations will be expected due to factors such as manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to a specific shape of the region as shown herein, but will include deviations in shape, for example, due to manufacturing processes. For instance, a region illustrated or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, sharp corners in the illustrations may be rounded. Therefore, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to depict the precise shape of the region, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be further understood that terms (e.g., those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0052] It should be understood that the various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and include various variations, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments. Regarding the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It should be understood that unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more things. As used herein, each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “A, B, or C,” and “at least one of A, B, and C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase.

[0053] The following text will refer to Figure 1 An electronic device according to an embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0054] refer to Figure 1 The electronic device 1000 may include a display device 10, a power module PM, a first electronic module EM1, and a second electronic module EM2. The display device 10, the power module PM, the first electronic module EM1, and the second electronic module EM2 may be electrically connected to each other. Figure 1 The figure illustrates an example of display pixels PX and touch sensor TS located in the display area of ​​the display panel in the configuration of display device 10.

[0055] The power module PM can power the overall operation of the electronic device 1000. The power module PM may include a conventional battery module.

[0056] The first electronic module EM1 and the second electronic module EM2 may include multiple functional modules for operating the electronic device 1000. The first electronic module EM1 may be directly mounted on a motherboard that is electrically connected to the display device 10, or it may be mounted on a separate substrate and electrically connected to the motherboard via a connector (not shown).

[0057] The first electronic module EM1 may include a control module CM, a wireless communication module TM, an image input module IIM, an audio input module AIM, a memory MM, and an external interface IF. Some of these modules may not be mounted on the motherboard, but can be electrically connected to the motherboard via a flexible printed circuit board.

[0058] The control module CM can control the overall operation of the electronic device 1000. The control module CM can be a microprocessor. For example, the control module CM can activate or deactivate the display device 10. The control module CM can control other modules, such as the image input module IIM or the audio input module AIM, based on touch signals received from the display device 10.

[0059] The wireless communication module™ can send and receive wireless signals to and from other terminals using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi lines. The wireless communication module™ can also send and receive voice signals using ordinary communication lines. The wireless communication module™ includes a transmitter TM1 that modulates and transmits the signal to be transmitted and a receiver TM2 that demodulates the received signal.

[0060] The image input module IIM can process image signals and convert them into image data that can be displayed on the display device 10. The audio input module AIM can receive external audio signals from a microphone in recording mode or voice recognition mode, and convert the external audio signals into electronic voice data.

[0061] The external interface IF can be used as an interface to connect to an external charger, wired / wireless data port, or card (e.g., memory card, SIM / UIM card) slot.

[0062] The second electronic module EM2 may include an audio output module AOM, a light emitting module LM, a light receiving module LRM, and a camera module CMM, at least some of which may be located as optical elements on the rear surface of the display panel. The optical elements may include the light emitting module LM, the light receiving module LRM, and the camera module CMM. In some aspects, the second electronic module EM2 may be directly mounted on the motherboard, mounted on a separate substrate, and electrically connected to the display device 10 via a connector (not shown), or electrically connected to the first electronic module EM1.

[0063] The audio output module AOM can convert audio data received from the wireless communication module TM or stored in the memory MM and output the audio data to the outside. The optical emitting module LM can generate and output light. The optical emitting module LM can output infrared light. For example, the optical emitting module LM may include LED elements. For example, the optical receiving module LRM can detect infrared light. When infrared light exceeding a certain level is detected, the optical receiving module LRM can be activated. The optical receiving module LRM may include a CMOS sensor. After the infrared light generated by the optical emitting module LM is output, the infrared light may be reflected by external objects (such as a user's finger or face), and the reflected infrared light may be incident on the optical receiving module LRM. The camera module CMM can capture external images.

[0064] The following will refer to Figures 2A to 3B An electronic device according to an embodiment is described. Figure 2A and Figure 2B It is a diagram used to describe various states of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 3A It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A', and Figure 3B It is along Figure 2B The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0065] First, refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1000 can be implemented such that the information display area DA1 of the display device can be increased or decreased by sliding movement. Here, the information display area DA1 can be a portion of the display device visible from the outside of the electronic device 1000. Information output to the display device can be visually conveyed to the user through the information display area DA1. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1000 can increase or decrease the width of the information display area DA1 by sliding movement.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1000 can move from a reference state (e.g., ...) via a sliding motion. Figure 2A and Figure 3A The state shown in the diagram changes to a sliding state (e.g., Figure 2B and Figure 3B (The state illustrated in the diagram).

[0067] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 3A The reference state of electronic device 1000 can refer to the state in which the end of the housing HS is substantially aligned with the end of the support member PT. For example, as Figure 3AAs illustrated in the diagram, the reference state can refer to the state where the support member PT does not protrude relative to the shell HS. The reference state can also refer to the state where the shell HS and the support member PT are aligned. Furthermore, the reference state can refer to either the closed state or the slid-in state.

[0068] The sliding state can refer to the state of sliding. Figure 3A Under the reference state, the supporting member PT slides relative to the shell HS, such as Figure 2B and Figure 3B As shown in the diagram. Figure 2B and Figure 3B As illustrated in the figure, the area of ​​the information display area DA1 in the sliding state can be larger than the area of ​​the information display area DA1 in the reference state. The sliding state can be understood as the open state or the slide-out state. The display device 10 whose area of ​​the information display area DA1 changes based on the sliding motion can be defined as a "sliding display device".

[0069] According to an embodiment, the display device 10 may be a flexible display device capable of bending. In an embodiment, the display device 10 may include a substrate formed of a flexible material. For example, the display device 10 may include a substrate formed of a polymer material such as a flexible material (e.g., polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET)). In some aspects, the display device 10 may include a substrate formed of a thin-formed glass material. The information display area DA1 of the external visible portion of the display panel DP of the display device 10 can be enlarged or reduced by sliding it.

[0070] In embodiments, the display device 10 may further include touch sensing circuitry (e.g., a touch sensor). In some aspects, the display device 10 may be combined with or adjacent to a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch and / or a digital converter capable of detecting a magnetic pen input device (e.g., a stylus). For example, the digital converter may include a coil element disposed on a dielectric substrate, such that the digital converter can detect the resonant frequency of electromagnetic induction applied from the pen input device.

[0071] According to various embodiments, the support member PT can support the display panel DP. In an example where the display device 10 slides, the support member PT can move along the display panel DP.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the display panel DP may include multiple areas. The multiple areas described herein may be areas defined according to the portion of the display panel DP located within the electronic device 1000. For example, the display panel DP may include an information display area DA1 (which is the area of ​​the display panel DP exposed to the outside of the electronic device 1000), a storage area DA3 (which is the area stored inside the electronic device 1000), and a bending area DA2 (which is the area connecting and bending the information display area DA1 and the storage area DA3). The information display area DA1, the bending area DA2, and the storage area DA3 may all be display areas for displaying images.

[0073] In one embodiment, based on the shape of the housing HS surrounding the display panel DP, a portion of the bending region DA2 may also be visible from the outside of the electronic device 1000.

[0074] As the display device 10 slides, the sizes of the information display area DA1 and the storage area DA3 can change. For example, in a reference state (e.g., Figure 3A The size of the information display area DA1 in the state shown in the figure can be smaller than that in the sliding state (e.g., Figure 3B The size of the information display area DA1 in the state shown in the figure is as follows. The size of the storage area DA3 in the reference state can be larger than the size of the storage area DA3 in the sliding state. For ease of description, each area of ​​the display panel DP is separated and may not be actually visually distinguishable areas.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the display device 10 can slide around an axis SX parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0076] In the following text, refer to Figure 4 An electronic device according to an embodiment is described. Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0077] First refer to Figure 4 The first direction DR1 can be a direction parallel to one side of the electronic device 1000 when viewed in a plane, for example, the vertical direction of the electronic device 1000. The second direction DR2 can be the horizontal direction of the electronic device 1000, and when viewed in a plane, the second direction DR2 is parallel to the side of the electronic device 1000 that is in contact with one side. The third direction DR3 can be the thickness direction of the electronic device 1000.

[0078] The electronic device 1000 includes a display area DA for displaying an image and a non-display area NDA other than the display area DA. The display area DA may be an area for displaying an image and includes multiple pixels. The non-display area NDA is an area that does not contain pixels and may be disposed around the display area DA.

[0079] The electronic device 1000 can be unfolded to be entirely flat. The electronic device 1000 may include a first flat region FA1, a second flat region FA2, and a foldable region BA located between the first flat region FA1 and the second flat region FA2. The foldable region BA is a region that folds based on a folding axis F when folded, and the first flat region FA1 and the second flat region FA2 are not folded. The foldable region BA can be folded about an axis parallel to a first direction DR1.

[0080] although Figure 4 The figure illustrates a foldable region BA, but the electronic device 1000 according to an embodiment may include one or more foldable regions BA. The one or more foldable regions BA may be folded based on different axes (e.g., an axis parallel to a first direction DR1 and / or an axis parallel to a second direction DR2), and the position and width of the foldable regions BA in the electronic device 1000 may be varied.

[0081] The electronic device 1000 can be held in both a folded and unfolded state. The electronic device 1000 can be folded in an inward folding manner, where the display area DA is located on the inside, or in an outward folding manner, where the display area DA is located on the outside. In the example where the electronic device 1000 is folded in an inward folding manner, the front surfaces of the electronic device 1000 can face each other. In the example where the electronic device 1000 is folded in an outward folding manner, the rear surfaces of the electronic device 1000 can face each other.

[0082] Refer to the following Figure 5 The stacked structure of the display device included in the electronic device according to the embodiments will be described. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. The electronic devices described herein include the display devices described herein.

[0083] refer to Figure 5 The display device 10 according to the embodiment may include a window protection layer PLW, a window WD, a first protection layer PL1, a display panel DP, a second protection layer PL2, a blocking layer BR, and a support member PT.

[0084] Each component constituting the display device 10 may be attached by adhesive layers AD1, AD2, AD3, AD4, AD5, and AD6. Each of adhesive layers AD1, AD2, AD3, AD4, AD5, and AD6 may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). Adhesive layers AD1, AD2, AD3, AD4, AD5, and AD6 may be optically transparent adhesive (OCA) or optically transparent resin (OCR). Each of adhesive layers AD1, AD2, AD3, AD4, AD5, and AD6 may be the same or different.

[0085] The display panel DP can be any one of the following, but is not limited to: light-emitting display panel, quantum dot display panel, LED display panel, liquid crystal display panel, plasma display panel, electrophoretic display panel, microelectromechanical system (MEMS) display panel, and electrowetting display panel.

[0086] The first protective layer PL1 is located on the display panel DP and can protect the display panel DP. According to an embodiment, the first protective layer PL1 can also have an anti-reflective function to prevent external light from being reflected and escaping from the interior of the display panel DP.

[0087] Although not described herein, according to embodiments, a first protective layer PL1 may be disposed between the window WD and the window protective layer PLW, which will be described later. The first protective layer PL1 may comprise, for example, polyethylene terephthalate resin or polyimide.

[0088] The window WD is disposed on the front surface of the first protective layer PL1 and serves to protect the display panel DP. The window WD can be attached to the front surface of the first protective layer PL1 via the second adhesive layer AD2.

[0089] The window WD is formed of a transparent material, which may include, for example, glass or plastic. For example, the window WD may include ultra-thin glass (UTG) with a thickness of less than 0.1 mm, transparent polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polycarbonate (PC), etc.

[0090] A window protection layer (PLW) can be applied to the front surface of the window WD. The PLW can be attached to the front surface of the window WD via a third adhesive layer (AD3). The PLW can perform at least one of the following functions: splash protection, shock absorption, scratch protection, fingerprint protection, and glare reduction for the window WD.

[0091] The second protective layer PL2 can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel DP. The second protective layer PL2 can be attached to the rear surface of the display panel DP by means of the fourth adhesive layer AD4. The second protective layer PL2 can support the display panel DP and protect the rear surface of the display panel DP.

[0092] A barrier layer BR can be disposed on the rear surface of the second protective layer PL2. The barrier layer BR can be attached to the rear surface of the second protective layer PL2 via a fifth adhesive layer AD5. The barrier layer BR can prevent the penetration of moisture and oxygen from the outside. According to an embodiment, the barrier layer BR can be omitted.

[0093] The barrier layer (BR) increases resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. The barrier layer (BR) can be used to prevent deformation of the display panel (DP). The barrier layer (BR) can comprise flexible plastic materials such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0094] The blocking layer BR can have a color that absorbs light. For example, the blocking layer BR can be black. In this case, when the display device 10 is viewed from above, the components disposed below the blocking layer BR may not be visible.

[0095] A support member PT can be disposed on the rear surface of the barrier layer BR to increase the strength and rigidity of the display device 10. The support member PT can be attached to the rear surface of the barrier layer BR via a sixth adhesive layer AD6.

[0096] The sixth adhesive layer AD6 can be provided with dimensions substantially the same as the barrier layer BR. In some aspects, the sixth adhesive layer AD6 can largely overlap with the display area DA of the display panel DP. The sixth adhesive layer AD6 can contact (e.g., directly contact) all of the plurality of first openings PTH of the support member PT. The sixth adhesive layer AD6 can also be provided in areas of the display panel DP that are bent, such as foldable areas, bending areas, or sliding areas.

[0097] The support member PT may comprise a non-metallic material. According to an embodiment, the support member PT may comprise at least one reinforcing fiber composite material. For example, the support member PT may comprise at least one of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) and glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP). Alternatively, according to an embodiment, the support member PT may comprise a metal such as SUS, Al, Mg, or Ti.

[0098] The support member PT may include a reinforcing fiber composite material to reduce weight. By including a reinforcing fiber composite material, the support member PT according to embodiments can have a lighter weight compared to a metal support plate using metallic materials, while having a modulus and strength similar to that of a metal support plate.

[0099] In some respects, because the support member PT comprises reinforced fiber composite material, its shape can be more easily processed compared to a metal support plate. For example, a support member PT comprising reinforced fiber composite material can be more easily processed by laser technology or microblasting. However, this is an example and not a limitation, and the support member PT may also comprise metallic materials.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a plurality of first openings PTH. The plurality of first openings PTH may have a shape extending in a first direction DR1. The plurality of first openings PTH may be formed by a laser process or a micro-blasting process. The plurality of first openings PTH may be defined in the area where the display device slides or folds, thereby improving the flexibility of the support member PT. Therefore, the support member PT can be folded or slid depending on the use of the device.

[0101] The support member PT may overlap with the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. Multiple first openings PTH may overlap with the display area DA. In some examples, the multiple first openings PTH may extend throughout the display area DA. The support member PT may include a first area with first openings PTH and a second area without first openings PTH. The first area may substantially overlap with the display area DA, and the second area may overlap with the non-display area NDA. In the support member PT, the area of ​​the first area with first openings PTH may be larger than the area of ​​the second area without first openings PTH.

[0102] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 6A to 9 The description includes a display device with a release layer. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view of the display device according to an embodiment. Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the display panel, support member, and release layer according to an embodiment. Figure 8 The figure shows a top view of the release layer and support member according to an embodiment, and Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the release layer and support member according to an embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described herein will be omitted.

[0103] refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B The display device 10 according to an embodiment may further include a release layer LIN located on the rear surface of the support member PT. According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the release layer LIN can be detached and removed from the support member PT as applicable or as required. According to an embodiment, the display device 10 may be configured such that the release layer LIN is removed... Figure 5 The format is provided.

[0104] The release layer LIN may include a first sublayer L1 located on the rear surface of the support member PT and a second sublayer L2 located on the rear surface of the first sublayer L1. The first sublayer L1 may be in contact with the support member PT. The first sublayer L1 may be located between the support member PT and the second sublayer L2.

[0105] Although this specification describes embodiments in which the release layer LIN includes a first sublayer L1 and a second sublayer L2, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto, and the release layer LIN may be formed of two or more layers. According to these embodiments, the release layer LIN may further include a third sublayer.

[0106] like Figure 6A As illustrated, the first sublayer L1 may include a plurality of second openings LH. The plurality of second openings LH may be defined in the thickness direction of the first sublayer L1. The thickness of the first sublayer L1 and the thickness of the second openings LH may be the same.

[0107] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Each of the plurality of second openings LH may extend in the second direction DR2. The plurality of second openings LH may be provided in the first direction DR1. Although this specification describes an embodiment in which the gaps and widths between the plurality of second openings LH are the same, the gaps and widths between the plurality of second openings LH may be varied according to the embodiment.

[0108] The second opening LH can extend from one end of the first sublayer L1 to the other along the second direction DR2. The second opening LH can reach the two edges of the first sublayer L1 that are parallel to the first direction DR1. The second opening LH can be an air passage.

[0109] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As illustrated, the support member PT includes a plurality of first openings PTH that can extend in a first direction DR1. The plurality of first openings PTH can be repeatedly arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In some aspects, the plurality of first openings PTH adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 can be alternately arranged in a plane. The plurality of first openings PTH can extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. In other words, each of the plurality of first openings PTH can have a first dimension (also referred to herein as the first length or width) in the first direction DR1 that is longer than a second dimension (also referred to herein as the second length or width) in the second direction DR2. As previously stated, the first direction DR1 is a direction parallel to a reference axis along which it slides, or a direction parallel to an axis along which it folds.

[0110] The second opening LH included in the first sublayer L1 may have a shape extending in the second direction DR2. The direction in which the second opening LH extends may be different from the direction in which the first opening PTH extends. The direction in which the second opening LH extends and the direction in which the first opening PTH extends may be perpendicular.

[0111] The second opening LH may overlap with at least a portion of the first opening PTH. In some aspects, the second opening LH may intersect with at least a portion of the first opening PTH.

[0112] like Figure 9 As illustrated, during the manufacturing process of the display device, the first opening PTH of the support member PT can be bonded under vacuum conditions during the bonding process between the sixth adhesive layer AD6 and the support member PT. In this embodiment, the release layer LIN provides a channel through which air can move through the second opening LH of the first sublayer L1. Therefore, even when bonded under vacuum conditions, air can move along the first opening PTH of the support member PT and the second opening LH of the first sublayer L1.

[0113] If the release layer LIN does not include the second opening LH, a vacuum may form in the first opening PTH. The upper surface of the support member PT can be shielded by the adhesive layer AD6, and the lower surface of the support member PT can be shielded by the release layer LIN. Therefore, when a vacuum is formed, contraction occurs at the first opening PTH, and since the display panel DP is bonded in a contracted state, this may cause bending of the display panel DP. In some aspects, the shape of the first opening PTH may be externally visible, which may lead to a deterioration in the quality of the display device.

[0114] However, according to the embodiment, even when the display panel DP and the support member PT are joined in a vacuum state, a channel for air to escape is provided, thereby preventing the display device from bending and the visibility of the first opening.

[0115] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13A and Figure 13B A method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment will be described in more detail. Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 13A and Figure 13B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0116] First, refer to Figure 10A The display panel assembly PA can be connected to a stage STG on which an electrostatic chuck ESC is mounted. The display panel assembly PA can refer to a structure stacked from the display panel DP described herein to the window protection layer PLW. Then, as... Figure 10B As illustrated, the alignment device VS can be used to position the display panel assembly PA at a specific location.

[0117] As shown below Figure 11A As illustrated, the display panel assembly PA is loaded into the first chamber CH1. Figure 11B As shown in the diagram, the display panel assembly PA loaded into the first chamber CH1 can be positioned upwards.

[0118] Then, as Figure 12A As illustrated, the support member PT and release layer LIN, loaded in the second chamber CH2, can be disposed adjacent to the first chamber CH1. (See below) Figure 12B As shown in the diagram, the alignment device VS is used to align the display panel assembly PA and the support member PT.

[0119] As shown below Figure 13A As illustrated, the display panel assembly PA and the support member PT are joined in a vacuum state within the chamber CH. The vacuum state can be used to remove air bubbles. In this case, for example, the release layer LIN according to an embodiment provides a channel through which air can move through a second opening in the first sublayer described herein. Therefore, air can move through the first opening in the support member PT and the second opening in the release layer LIN. The display panel assembly PA to be joined can be provided as flat and unbent. In some aspects, the shape of the first opening included in the support member PT may not be visible. Then, as... Figure 13B As shown in the diagram, the manufactured display device is discharged.

[0120] The display device according to the embodiment can be provided as including a release layer having channels through which air can move. Therefore, even if a vacuum state is provided during the manufacturing process, the problem of visible bending or openings in the display panel can be solved by providing air channels.

[0121] In the following text, refer to Figures 14 to 19 The shapes of the support members and release layers according to the embodiments will be described. Figures 14 to 19 This is a top view of the support member and release layer according to an embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described herein will be omitted.

[0122] refer to Figure 14According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a plurality of first openings PTH extending in a first direction DR1.

[0123] Multiple first openings PTH can be arranged according to predetermined rules. Multiple first openings PTH can be arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. When viewed in a plane, multiple first openings PTH adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 can be alternately arranged. Multiple first openings PTH can extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. That is, multiple first openings PTH can extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis or sliding axis described herein.

[0124] like Figure 14 As illustrated, the release layer LIN may include a second opening LH extending in the second direction DR2. A plurality of second openings LH may be spaced apart in the first direction DR1.

[0125] The second opening LH may have a striped shape on a plane. The second opening LH may have a shape that is inclined relative to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The second opening LH may intersect with a plurality of first openings PTH. The second opening LH may intersect with a plurality of first openings PTH in a direction that is inclined relative to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0126] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the foregoing embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0127] refer to Figure 15 According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a first sub-opening PTH1 and a second sub-opening PTH2. The first sub-opening PTH1 and the second sub-opening PTH2 may have different shapes in a plane. For example, the first sub-opening PTH1 may have a rod shape extending in a first direction DR1. Multiple first sub-openings PTH1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Multiple first sub-openings PTH1 may be arranged alternately in a plane. The second sub-opening PTH2 may have a hexagonal shape in a plane. Adjacent second sub-openings PTH2 may be arranged such that their two facing sides are parallel. This specification provides examples of the shapes of the first sub-openings PTH1 and the second sub-openings PTH2, and the shapes of the first sub-openings PTH1 and the second sub-openings PTH2 may be varied according to an embodiment. The first sub-openings PTH1 and the second sub-openings PTH2 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0128] The second opening LH may have a striped shape on a plane. The second opening LH may extend in the second direction DR2. The second opening LH may intersect with the first sub-opening PTH1 and the second sub-opening PTH2. The second opening LH may intersect with multiple first sub-openings PTH1 and second sub-openings PTH2 with different shapes.

[0129] exist Figure 15 In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the aforementioned embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0130] refer to Figure 16 The width of the second opening LH according to the embodiment can vary. The release layer LIN may include a plurality of second openings LH. Some of the plurality of second openings LH may have a first width, and the remaining second openings LH may have a second width. The first width and the second width may be different. Although two widths of the second opening LH are described in this specification, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto, and each of the plurality of second openings LH may have a different corresponding width.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the second opening LH having a first width and the second opening LH having a second width can be alternately arranged. However, this is not a limitation, and the second opening LH having a first width and the second opening LH having a second width can be arranged in various ways.

[0132] exist Figure 16 In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the aforementioned embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0133] refer to Figure 17 According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a plurality of first openings PTH. Each of the plurality of first openings PTH may have a rod shape extending in a first direction DR1. The first openings PTH may extend from one end of the support member PT to the other end. According to an embodiment, the plurality of first openings PTH may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2.

[0134] The second opening LH can have a striped shape on a plane. The second opening LH can extend in the second direction DR2. The second opening LH can intersect with multiple first openings PTH.

[0135] exist Figure 17In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the aforementioned embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0136] refer to Figure 18 According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a plurality of first openings PTH. Each of the plurality of first openings PTH may have a rod shape extending in a first direction DR1.

[0137] According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a connecting portion BR extending in the second direction DR2. A plurality of first openings PTH provided in the first direction DR1 may be spaced apart by the connecting portion BR.

[0138] The second opening LH can have a striped shape on a plane. The second opening LH can extend in the second direction DR2. The second opening LH can intersect with multiple first openings PTH.

[0139] exist Figure 18 In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the aforementioned embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0140] refer to Figure 19 According to an embodiment, the support member PT may include a plurality of first openings PTH. Each of the plurality of first openings PTH may have a rod shape extending in a first direction DR1. The plurality of first openings PTH may be provided in a second direction DR2.

[0141] The second opening LH may have a grid shape in a plane. The second opening LH may include a first portion LH1 extending in a first direction DR1 and a second portion LH2 extending in a second direction DR2. The first portion LH1 and the second portion LH2 may be connected to each other. The first portion LH1 may extend in the same direction as the first opening PTH. The first portion LH1 may overlap with at least a portion of the first opening PTH. The second portion LH2 may extend in a direction intersecting the first opening PTH. The second portion LH2 may overlap with multiple first openings PTH.

[0142] exist Figure 19 In one embodiment, the release layer LIN is illustrated as including a first sublayer L1, and a second sublayer is formed such that the second sublayer overlaps with the front surface of the support member PT (which is not illustrated separately). The second sublayer may adopt the shape of the aforementioned embodiment, and a third sublayer may also be applied based on the embodiment.

[0143] The following text will refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 A display device is described based on comparative examples and embodiments. Figure 20 It is based on the image of the display device of the comparison example, and Figure 21 These are images of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0144] Figure 20 The image is based on a comparative example of a display device including a release layer with a flat shape, and Figure 21 This is an image of a display device with a release layer including a second opening, according to an embodiment. Reference Figure 20 When a release layer with a flat shape is included, a vacuum adsorption is formed at the first opening of the support member, allowing the user to identify the shape of the first opening. However, as... Figure 21 As in the example, if the release layer includes a second opening, it can prevent vacuum adsorption at the first opening and allow air movement, thereby preventing the display device from bending and reducing the visibility of the first opening.

[0145] The display device according to an embodiment can prevent vacuum adsorption that occurs during the manufacturing process of the display device by providing a release layer including a second opening. Therefore, even when the display panel and support members are joined under vacuum, a channel for air to escape is provided, thereby preventing bending of the display device and improving its quality.

[0146] While this disclosure has been described in conjunction with embodiments now considered practical, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather, this disclosure is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display panel; A support member is located on the rear surface of the display panel and includes a plurality of first openings; as well as An adhesive layer is located between the display panel and the support member, and overlaps with the plurality of first openings. in: In the plan view, each of the plurality of first openings has a first length in a first direction and a second length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first length is longer than the second length, and The adhesive layer overlaps with all of the plurality of first openings.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The supporting component includes: A first region having the plurality of first openings; and The second zone other than the first zone, and The area of ​​the first region is larger than the area of ​​the second region.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The display panel includes a display area and a non-display area, and The plurality of first openings are disposed in the display area.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel folds or slides around an axis parallel to the first direction.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The adhesive layer is in direct contact with the plurality of first openings.

6. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a release layer located on the rear surface of the support member.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The release layer includes: The first sub-layer in contact with the supporting member; and The second sublayer is located on the rear surface of the first sublayer.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The first sublayer includes a second opening that overlaps with one or more of the plurality of first openings.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The first sublayer includes a plurality of second openings disposed in the first direction.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The plurality of second openings have different corresponding widths.

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