Display module and foldable electronic device

Abstract

A display module and a foldable electronic device are disclosed. The electronic device includes a first body, a second body, a hinge, and a display module. The first body and the second body are rotatable relative to the hinge. The display module includes a display screen, a first support layer, a second support layer, and an adhesive layer. The display screen includes a bending area and a non-bending area. The first support layer is attached to the display screen and has a bendable pattern in the bending area. The first support layer and the second support layer are bonded together by the adhesive layer. In the flattened state of the display module, there is a gap between the first support layer and the second support layer in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area. This gap reduces the excessive support strength exerted by the first and second support layers on the bending area of ​​the display screen after they are engaged, making the display screen easier to bend in the bending area. At the same time, the engagement of the first and second support layers ensures effective support for the bending area of ​​the display screen, preventing creases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic product technology, specifically to a display module and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Foldable products are typically composite structures made of multiple layers of films, adhesives, and other polymer materials. Taking foldable screens as an example, when a foldable screen is in a bent state for a long time, at least some of the film layers in the foldable screen will undergo creep due to prolonged stress. The greater the stress on these film layers and the longer the bending time, the greater the creep deformation, and they cannot completely return to their original state. This can easily cause creases on the foldable screen and reduce the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, this application provides a display module and a foldable electronic device to solve the problem of creases easily generated in foldable products in the prior art.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, comprising a first body, a second body, a hinge, and a display module. The first body and the second body are respectively located on both sides of the hinge, and both the first body and the second body are rotatably connected to the hinge; the display module covers the first body, the second body, and the hinge.

[0005] The display module includes a display screen, a first support layer, a second support layer, and an adhesive layer. The display screen includes a bending area and a non-bending area, with the non-bending area located on both sides of the bending area. The first support layer is attached to the display screen to support it, and has a bendable pattern in the bending area. The first support layer and the second support layer are bonded together by the adhesive layer. The second support layer is attached to the side of the first support layer facing away from the display screen. In the flattened state of the display module, there is a gap between the first support layer and the second support layer in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area.

[0006] The foldable electronic device provided in this embodiment can reliably support the display screen through the cooperation of the first support layer and the second support layer, especially effectively supporting the bending area of ​​the display screen and preventing creases. At the same time, by maintaining the aforementioned gap between the first support layer and the second support layer, the excessive support strength exerted by the first support layer and the second support layer on the bending area of ​​the display screen after cooperation can be reduced, making the display screen easier to bend in the bending area and easier to switch the display module between flat and folded states.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the pattern of the first support layer in the bending area forms a bamboo book structure. The bamboo book structure can be a structure formed by multiple through holes arranged in a certain pattern within a certain area. In one embodiment, the bamboo book structure can also be composed of bamboo strips. The bamboo book structure can improve the bendability at the first support layer.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the second support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the bending area. This bamboo book structure can have a similar structure and function to the bamboo book structure on the aforementioned first support layer, and will not be described in detail here.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the adhesive layer is not provided at the gap, thereby allowing a gap to be formed between the adhesive layers on both sides of the bending area. This gap ensures that when the display screen is flattened, the first support layer and the second support layer do not contact each other at their relative positions with the bending area. This reduces the support strength of the first support layer and the second support layer on the display screen at the bending area, enabling effective support for the bending area of ​​the display screen. This improves the bendability while ensuring that the display screen is free of creases.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the gap between the first support layer and the second support layer along the thickness direction of the display module is between 0.01 mm and 0.05 mm. By keeping the gap within this range, the supporting strength of the first and second support layers for the display screen can be guaranteed, ensuring that the display screen is free of creases, while also ensuring that the display module has good bendability.

[0011] In one possible implementation, a thinning portion is provided on at least a portion of the second support layer corresponding to the bending area. The thickness of the thinning portion is less than the thickness of the portion of the second support layer corresponding to the non-bending area, and a gap exists between the thinning portion and the first support layer. The second support layer has a non-uniform thickness, meaning the thickness of the portion of the second support layer corresponding to the bending area of ​​the display screen is relatively small. This reduces the supporting strength of the second support layer at the position relative to the bending area of ​​the display screen, improving its bendability. Therefore, the cooperation between the second and first support layers ensures reliable support for the display screen, reduces creases, and improves the overall bendability of the display module.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the thinned portion is between 0.02 mm and 0.05 mm. By keeping the thinned portion within this size range, both good bendability of the second support layer and reliable support for the display screen can be achieved, ensuring that the display screen will not crease.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the pattern includes a plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes. Along the thickness direction of the display module, the projection of the thinned portion at least partially overlaps with the projections of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of blind holes. The first support layer provides relatively weak support to the display screen at the first through holes, especially at the positions on the display screen opposite to the first through holes and / or the first blind holes. By ensuring that the projection of the thinned portion of the second support layer at least partially overlaps with the projections of the first through holes and / or the first blind holes on the first support layer, the support strength at the positions on the display screen opposite to the first through holes and / or the first blind holes can be improved, preventing problems such as collapse and wrinkles on the display screen at these positions.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the second support layer is provided with a second through hole and / or a second blind hole, and along the distribution direction of the bending area and the non-bending area, the second through hole and / or the second blind hole is disposed on at least one side of the thinned portion. By providing the second through hole and / or the second blind hole, the bendability of the second support layer at the second through hole and / or the second blind hole can be improved, thereby improving the overall bendability of the display module.

[0015] In one possible implementation, along the thickness direction of the display module, the projections of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of first blind holes do not coincide with the projections of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes. This avoids interference and jamming between the holes on the first support layer and the holes near the holes on the second support layer during folding or flattening, ensuring the normal flattening or folding of the display module.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the bending area includes a first bending area, a second bending area, and a third bending area. The second bending area and the third bending area are respectively disposed on both sides of the first bending area. The plurality of first through holes and / or first blind holes are opposite to the first bending area, and the second through holes and / or second blind holes are opposite to the second bending area and / or the third bending area and / or the non-bending area. By providing the first through holes and / or first blind holes on the first support layer, the bendability of the display module in the first bending area can be improved. By providing the second through holes and / or second blind holes on the second support layer at positions corresponding to the second and third bending areas, the bendability of the display module at those positions can be improved. Thus, the distribution of the first through holes and / or first blind holes on the first support layer in the first bending area, and the distribution of the second through holes and / or second blind holes on the second support layer in the second and third bending areas, facilitates the overall folding of the display module into a "teardrop" shape.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the non-bending area, or at least a portion of the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the bending area. This improves bendability while maintaining good bendability of the display module.

[0018] In one possible implementation, a lubricating layer is provided on the side of the second support layer facing the first support layer, and the lubricating layer is located on the second support layer opposite to the bending area; in the flattened state of the display module, the lubricating layer and the first support layer maintain the gap. During the folding process of the display module, even if the first support layer comes into contact with the lubricating layer at the gap, the excellent lubrication effect of the lubricating layer can significantly reduce the friction between the lubricating layer and the first support layer, which is beneficial to improving the bendability of the first and second support layers, improving the user experience, and also reducing wear on the first and second support layers, extending their service life.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the lubricating layer is less than or equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer. When the surface of the second support layer facing the first support layer is a flat and continuous surface, a certain gap can still be maintained between the lubricating layer and the first support layer when the thickness of the lubricating layer is less than the thickness of the adhesive layer. This gap helps improve the bendability of the display module in the bending area. When the thickness of the lubricating layer is equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer, the lubricating layer can contact the first support layer, thus achieving a lubrication effect and reducing the friction between the first and second support layers.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the lubricating layer is made of Teflon or Mylar. Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), has a relatively low coefficient of friction compared to most solid materials, giving it excellent lubricity. This reduces friction between the first and second support layers, improving flexibility and extending service life. Mylar, a plastic composed of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), also possesses good lubricity and can reduce friction between the first and second support layers.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the material of the second support layer is an organic composite material. Exemplarily, the organic composite material can be, but is not limited to, fibers, or a composite of polyimide and polyurethane, or a composite of polyethylene terephthalate and polyurethane. Compared to metallic materials, the second support layer prepared from organic composite materials can possess both a certain degree of rigidity and good flexibility, enabling it to support the display screen while ensuring the overall bendability of the display module.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the material of the second support layer includes a first material and a second material. The material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the bending area is the first material, and the material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the non-bending area is the second material. The first material and the second material are different. The stiffness of the first material is less than that of the second material, making the portion of the second support layer using the first material easier to bend than the portion using the second material. That is, the portion of the second support layer opposite to the bending area of ​​the display screen is easier to bend, while also providing some support. This ensures that no wrinkles or creases appear on the display screen and improves the overall bendability of the display module. In one embodiment, the first material can be an organic composite material, and the second material can be a metal.

[0023] In one possible implementation, along the distribution direction of the bending and non-bending areas, the width of the second support layer is less than or equal to the width of the first support layer. This saves more space below the first support layer for arranging device structures, improving space utilization while ensuring the display screen remains crease-free and has good bendability.

[0024] Secondly, this application also provides a display module, comprising a display screen, a first support layer, a second support layer, and an adhesive layer. The display screen includes a bending area and a non-bending area, the non-bending area being disposed on both sides of the bending area. The first support layer is attached to the display screen for supporting the display screen, and the first support layer has a bendable pattern in the bending area. The first support layer and the second support layer are bonded together by the adhesive layer, with the second support layer connected to the side of the first support layer facing away from the display screen. In the flattened state of the display module, there is a gap between the first support layer and the second support layer in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area.

[0025] The display module provided in this embodiment, through the cooperation of the first and second support layers, can reliably support the display screen, especially effectively supporting the bending area of ​​the display screen and preventing creases. Simultaneously, by maintaining the aforementioned gap between the first and second support layers, excessive support strength exerted by the first and second support layers on the bending area of ​​the display screen after cooperation can be reduced, making the display screen easier to bend in the bending area and facilitating the switching between a flattened and folded state of the display module.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the pattern of the bending area.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the second support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the bending area.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the adhesive layer is not provided at the gap.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the gap between the first support layer and the second support layer along the thickness direction of the display screen is between 0.01 mm and 0.05 mm.

[0030] In one possible implementation, a thinning portion is provided on at least a portion of the second support layer corresponding to the bending area, the thickness of the thinning portion being less than the thickness of the portion of the second support layer corresponding to the non-bending area, and the gap is present between the thinning portion and the first support layer.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the thinned portion is between 0.02 mm and 0.05 mm.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the pattern includes a plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes, and along the thickness direction of the display module, the projection of the thinned portion at least partially overlaps with the projection of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of blind holes.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the second support layer is provided with a second through hole and / or a second blind hole, and along the distribution direction of the bending area and the non-bending area, the second through hole and / or the second blind hole is provided on at least one side of the thinned portion.

[0034] In one possible implementation, along the thickness direction of the display module, the projections of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of first blind holes do not coincide with the projections of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the bending area includes a first bending area, a second bending area, and a third bending area. The second bending area and the third bending area are respectively disposed on both sides of the first bending area. The plurality of first through holes and / or first blind holes are opposite to the first bending area, and the second through holes and / or second blind holes are opposite to the second bending area and / or the third bending area and / or the non-bending area.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the non-bending area, or at least a portion of the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the bending area.

[0037] In one possible implementation, a lubricating layer is provided on the side of the second support layer facing the first support layer, and the lubricating layer is located on the second support layer at a position opposite to the bending area; in the flattened state of the display module, the lubricating layer and the first support layer maintain the gap.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the lubricating layer is less than or equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the material of the lubricating layer includes Teflon or Mylar.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the material of the second support layer is an organic composite material.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the material of the second support layer includes a first material and a second material, wherein the material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the bending area is the first material, and the material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the non-bending area is the second material, and the first material and the second material are different.

[0042] In one possible implementation, along the distribution direction of the bent area and the non-bent area, the width dimension of the second support layer is less than or equal to the width dimension of the first support layer.

[0043] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0044] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0045] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 3 This is a top view of the first support layer in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the display module provided in the embodiments of this application in a folded state;

[0057] Figure 13 This is a top view of the second support layer in the display module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 14 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 16 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure label:

[0062] 100 - Foldable electronic device; 110 - Display module; 10 - First body; 20 - Second body; 30 - Hinge;

[0063] 1 - Display screen; M - Bending area; M1 - First bending area; M2 - Second bending area; M3 - Third bending area; N1 - First non-bending area; N2 - Second non-bending area;

[0064] 2-First support layer; 21-Pattern; 211-First through hole; 212-First blind hole;

[0065] 3-Second support layer; 31-Thinned section; 32-Second through hole; 33-Third through hole; 34-Third blind hole;

[0066] 4-Adhesive layer;

[0067] 5-Lubricating layer;

[0068] G-gap;

[0069] X - width direction; Y - length direction; Z - thickness direction. Detailed Implementation

[0070] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0072] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0073] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0074] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; unless otherwise specified or explained, the term "multiple" refers to two or more; the terms "connected," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connected" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, an integral connection, or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0075] With the development of electronic technology, foldable electronic devices have made great progress in terms of thinness, lightness, and practicality. Foldable electronic devices typically use foldable screens (or simply foldable displays), which are usually composite structures composed of multiple layers of films, adhesives, and other polymer materials. When a foldable screen is in a bent state for a long time, the film material in the bending area will undergo plastic deformation due to prolonged stress, i.e., creep. The greater the stress on the film material and the longer the bending time, the greater the creep deformation, making it difficult to completely return to its original state. This causes problems such as creases and collapses in the foldable screen, reducing the user experience.

[0076] Therefore, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, which may include, but is not limited to, foldable mobile phones, foldable tablets, etc. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 The foldable electronic device 100 shown is exemplified by a mobile phone. This foldable electronic device 100 may include a first body 10, a second body 20, and a pivot 30. For example, the first body 10 and the second body 20 can be a mid-frame, which carries numerous devices and structures. The first body 10 and the second body 20 are located on opposite sides of the pivot 30, and both are rotatably connected to the pivot 30. The first body 10 and the second body 20 unfold or fold by rotating relative to the pivot 30.

[0077] The foldable electronic device 100 also includes a display module 110, which can cover the first body 10, the second body 20 and the pivot 30. For example, the display module 110 can be bonded and fixed to the first body 10 and the second body 20 respectively. The display module 110 has the characteristic of being bendable and can be adaptively unfolded or folded with the movement of the first body 10 and the second body 20.

[0078] Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 2As shown, the display module 110 includes a display screen 1. The display screen 1 may include a cover plate (not shown) and a display layer (not shown). The cover plate may be a flexible cover plate, capable of covering the display layer to protect it. The display layer may include organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), flexible light-emitting diodes (FLEDs), etc. The display screen 1 includes a bending area M and a non-bending area, with the non-bending area disposed on both sides of the bending area M.

[0079] The display screen 1 includes a bending area M and non-bending areas, with the non-bending areas located on both sides of the bending area M. In one embodiment, there may be one bending area M and two non-bending areas. For example, the non-bending areas may include a first non-bending area N1 and a second non-bending area N2, with the two non-bending areas located on both sides of the bending area M. This display screen 1 can be used in a dual-folding screen electronic device.

[0080] In one embodiment, there may be two bending areas M and three non-bending areas, with the bending areas M and non-bending areas alternating. This display screen 1 can be used in a tri-fold screen electronic device. For ease of explanation, the foldable electronic device may include a length direction Y, a width direction X, and a thickness direction Z, wherein the length direction Y, width direction X, and thickness direction Z can be mutually perpendicular. The length direction Y of the foldable electronic device is consistent with the length direction Y of the pivot 30. The distribution direction of the bending areas M and non-bending areas of the display screen 1 is the width direction X of the foldable electronic device.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the display module 110 also includes a first support layer 2, which is attached to the display screen 1 to support it. The first support layer 2 has a bendable pattern 21 at the location corresponding to the bending area M. The pattern 21 can be a through hole or a blind hole. The first support layer 2 has no thickness at the through hole location or a small thickness at the blind hole location, which makes it easier for the first support layer 2 to bend at the through hole or blind hole location, thereby improving the bendability of the first support layer 2 at the pattern locations such as through holes or blind holes. The shape of the through hole or blind hole can be regular or irregular. For example, the through hole or blind hole can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, trapezoidal, curved, etc. This embodiment does not limit the shape of the through hole or blind hole.

[0082] The pattern 21 on the first support layer 2 can be formed by multiple elongated holes arranged in a certain way, and the multiple holes can be distributed in the length direction Y of the display module 110.

[0083] Figure 3This is a top view of the first support layer 2 in the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, for ease of explanation, the pattern 21 on the first support layer 2 can be defined as including multiple first through holes and / or first blind holes. That is, at least a portion of the positions on the first support layer 2 corresponding to the bending area M are provided with multiple first through holes and / or first blind holes. The multiple first through holes and / or first blind holes can be arranged in a certain way to form the pattern 21. The first through hole and / or first blind hole can be a strip-shaped hole extending along the length direction Y of the display module.

[0084] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 An exemplary diagram shows a pattern including multiple first through holes 211. A first support layer 2 is bonded to a second support layer 3 via an adhesive layer 4. A gap G exists between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 at a position corresponding to the bending area M. The multiple first through holes 211 are located on the first support layer 2 in the area corresponding to the bending area M. By opening the first through holes 211 on the first support layer 2 at positions corresponding to the bending area M of the display screen 1, reliable support of the display module by the first support layer 2 can be ensured, preventing creases, while simultaneously improving the bendability of the first support layer 2 at positions corresponding to the bending area M.

[0085] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 An illustrative diagram shows a plurality of first blind holes 212. The first blind holes 212 have a similar function to the aforementioned first through holes 211, and will not be described again here.

[0086] In one embodiment, the aforementioned pattern 21 can form a bamboo book structure, which can be a structure formed by arranging multiple through holes in a certain area according to a certain pattern. In another embodiment, the bamboo book structure can also be composed of bamboo strips.

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, the display module also includes a second support layer 3. The second support layer 3 is bonded to the side of the first support layer 2 facing away from the display screen 1 via an adhesive layer 4, and the second support layer 3 can be connected to the first body 10 and the second body 20 of the foldable electronic device. Exemplarily, the second support layer 3 can be bonded to the first body 10 and the second body 20 respectively using adhesive, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the display module and the first body 10 and the second body 20, while facilitating assembly.

[0088] The second support layer 3 has a certain rigidity and can support the display screen 1 in conjunction with the first support layer 2, ensuring the flatness of the display screen 1 in the unfolded state. In particular, it can ensure that the display screen 1 has good flatness at the bending area M, and avoid problems such as wrinkles, creases, and collapse of the display screen 1 at the bending area M.

[0089] Furthermore, if the combined rigidity of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 is too high, it is also detrimental to the bendability of the display screen 1. To ensure reliable support for the bending area M of the display screen 1, maintain the flatness of the bending area M, and simultaneously ensure good bendability of the display screen 1, in this embodiment, when the display module is in its flattened state, there is a gap G between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area M. In this embodiment, the cooperation of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 can achieve reliable support for the display screen 1, especially effective support for the bending area M of the display screen 1, preventing creases. Simultaneously, by maintaining the aforementioned gap G between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, the excessive support strength generated by the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 after cooperation can be reduced, making the display screen 1 easier to bend in the bending area M and facilitating the switching between the flattened and folded states of the display module.

[0090] The adhesive layer 4 can be an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer 4 can reliably bond the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3. At the same time, the adhesive layer 4 has a small thickness, which is also conducive to achieving thinness. In addition, the thickness of the adhesive layer 4 can maintain the aforementioned gap G between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 at the position corresponding to the bending area M of the display module.

[0091] In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 4 also provides some support to the display screen 1. If the display layer is located opposite the bending area M, it would be detrimental to the bending of the display screen 1. In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 4 can be located opposite the non-bending areas on both sides of the bending area M, while no adhesive layer 4 is provided at the location opposite the bending area M. This allows a gap G to be formed between the adhesive layers 4 on both sides of the bending area M. Through this gap G, the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 do not contact each other at the location opposite the bending area M when the display screen 1 is in a flattened state. This reduces the support strength of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 on the display screen 1 at the bending area M, effectively supporting the bending area M of the display screen 1. This ensures that the display screen 1 is free of creases while improving its bendability.

[0092] In some embodiments, while ensuring that the display module has good bendability, a portion of the adhesive layer 4 may be opposite to the non-bending area, and another portion may be opposite to the bending area M.

[0093] like Figure 4 As shown, along the thickness direction Z of the display module, the width B of the gap G between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 needs to be within a certain range. If the width B of the gap G is too large, the support capacity of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 for the display screen 1 will be weak. If the width B of the gap G is too small, the bendability of the display module in the bending area M will be reduced. Therefore, in this embodiment, the width B of the gap G between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 can be between 0.01mm and 0.05mm. For example, the width B of the gap G can be 0.01mm, 0.02mm, 0.03mm, 0.04mm, or 0.05mm. By keeping the gap G within the above-mentioned range, the support strength of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 for the display screen 1 can be guaranteed, ensuring that the display screen 1 is free of creases, while also ensuring that the display module has good bendability.

[0094] In some embodiments, when the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 are bonded together by the adhesive layer 4, the width B of the gap G can be consistent with the thickness of the adhesive layer 4.

[0095] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the display module 110 includes a display screen 1, a first support layer 2, and a second support layer 3 stacked together, connected by an adhesive layer 4. A gap G exists between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 at a location corresponding to the bending area M. A first through-hole 211 is provided on the first support layer 2 at the location corresponding to the bending area M. A thinning portion 31 is provided on the second support layer 3 at least a portion corresponding to the bending area M. The thickness of the thinning portion 31 is less than the thickness of the portion of the second support layer 3 corresponding to the non-bending area, and a gap G is maintained between the thinning portion 31 and the first support layer 2. The second support layer 3 has an uneven thickness, meaning the thickness of the portion of the second support layer 3 corresponding to the bending area M of the display screen 1 is relatively small. This reduces the support strength of the second support layer 3 at the location opposite the bending area M of the display screen 1, improving its bendability. Therefore, the cooperation between the second support layer 3 and the first support layer 2 ensures reliable support for the display screen 1, reduces creases, and improves the overall bendability of the display module.

[0096] In some embodiments, the second support layer 3 may also have a uniform thickness to improve the uniformity of the support effect on the display screen 1 and ensure that no creases appear on the display screen 1.

[0097] When the second support layer 3 has a uniform thickness, a bamboo book structure can also be formed in the bending area M. This bamboo book structure can have a similar structure and function to the bamboo book structure on the first support layer 2, which will not be described in detail here. By setting the bamboo book structure on the second support layer 3, the overall bendability of the display module in the bending area M can also be improved.

[0098] When the aforementioned thinning portion 31 is provided on the second support layer 3, the aforementioned bamboo book structure can also be provided on the thinning portion 31 to further reduce the support strength of the thinning portion 31 on the bending area M of the display screen 1 and improve the bending performance. The bamboo book structure on the thinning portion 31 can be formed by arranging multiple third through holes 33 and / or third blind holes 34 according to a certain pattern.

[0099] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 6 Based on the proposed scheme, Figure 7 The thinning portion 31 shown may only have a third through hole 33. The third through hole 33 can penetrate the thinning portion 31 in the thickness direction Z. Multiple third through holes 33 may be provided, and the multiple third through holes 33 may be distributed in an array or discretely spaced.

[0100] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, in Figure 6 Based on the proposed scheme, Figure 8 The thinning portion 31 shown may also have only a third blind hole 34. The opening direction of the third blind hole 34 may face towards the first support layer 2 or away from the first support layer 2. Multiple third blind holes 34 may be provided, and their opening directions may be the same or different. For example, the thinning portion 31 may also have both a third through hole 33 and a third blind hole 34. The provision of the third through hole 33 and the third blind hole 34 in the above embodiments can reduce the support strength of the thinning portion 31 on the bending area M of the display screen 1, thereby improving its bendability.

[0101] The thinning portion 31 can have a certain thickness requirement. If the thickness of the thinning portion 31 is too large, although it can improve the reliability of supporting the display screen 1, it will reduce the bendability. If the thickness of the thinning portion 31 is too small, it will excessively reduce the reliability of the second support layer 3 in supporting the display screen 1, which can easily cause problems such as wrinkles and collapse of the display screen 1, and easily produce creases. Therefore, in this embodiment, the thickness of the thinning portion 31 can be between 0.02mm and 0.05mm. For example, the thickness of the thinning portion 31 can be 0.02mm, 0.03mm, 0.04mm or 0.05mm. By making the thinning portion 31 within the above size range, the second support layer 3 can have both good bendability and reliable support for the display screen 1, ensuring that the display screen 1 will not crease.

[0102] In one embodiment, along the thickness direction Z of the display module, the projection of the thinned portion 31 of the second support layer 3 at least partially overlaps with the projections of the plurality of first through holes 211 and / or first blind holes 212 on the first support layer 2. The first support layer 2 has relatively weak support for the display screen 1 at the first through holes, especially at positions on the display screen 1 opposite to the first through holes 211 and / or first blind holes 212. By ensuring that the projection of the thinned portion 31 of the second support layer 3 at least partially overlaps with the projections of the first through holes 211 and / or first blind holes 212 on the first support layer 2, the support strength for these positions on the display screen 1 can be improved, preventing problems such as collapse and wrinkles at these positions on the display screen 1.

[0103] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the display module includes a display screen 1, a first support layer 2, and a second support layer 3 stacked together, connected by an adhesive layer 4. A gap G exists between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 at a location corresponding to a bending region M. A first through-hole 211 is provided on the first support layer 2 at the location corresponding to the bending region M, and a thinning portion 31 is provided on the second support layer 3 at the location corresponding to the bending region M. A second through-hole and / or a second blind hole may be provided on the second support layer 3. Along the distribution direction of the bending region M and the non-bending region, i.e., the width direction X of the display module, the second through-hole and / or the second blind hole is provided on at least one side of the thinning portion 31. For example, both sides of the thinning portion 31 may have second through-holes and / or second blind holes. Figure 9 The thinning portion 31 is illustrated by way of example, where both sides may be provided with second through holes 32. Alternatively, the thinning portion 31 may be provided with a second through hole and / or a second blind hole on only one side. Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a display module in an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10 An exemplary illustration shows that only one side of the thinned portion 31 is provided with a second through hole 32. The arrangement and function of the second blind hole are similar to those of the second through hole 32, and will not be described again here.

[0104] The second through hole and / or second blind hole can be provided in one or more ways. When there are multiple second through holes and / or second blind holes, the second through holes, second blind holes, or a combination of the second through holes and second blind holes can all be provided on the second support layer 3. Multiple second through holes and / or second blind holes can be arranged in an array or discretely, and the specific distribution can be designed according to the support strength and bendability of the second support layer 3. In this embodiment, by providing second through holes and / or second blind holes, the bendability of the second support layer 3 at the second through holes and / or second blind holes can be improved, thereby improving the overall bendability of the display module. As explained above, in one embodiment, the second through hole and / or second blind hole can be provided only on one side of the thinned portion 31. In another embodiment, second through holes and / or second blind holes can be provided on both sides of the thinned portion 31, thereby making the bending effect on both sides of the thinned portion 31 consistent or nearly consistent, improving the user experience.

[0105] like Figure 10 As shown, along the thickness direction Z of the display module, the projections of multiple first through holes and / or first blind holes do not coincide with the projections of second through holes and / or second blind holes. During the bending process of the display module, the first support layer 2 deforms at the position corresponding to the bending area M of the display screen 1, which causes the aperture of the first through holes and / or first blind holes to change. For example, taking the first support layer 2 having a first through hole 211 as an example, when the display module is in a folded state, the side of the first support layer 2 facing the display screen 1 is compressed, while the side away from the display screen 1 is stretched. This causes the aperture of the first through hole 211 near the display screen 1 to decrease, while the aperture of the side away from the display screen 1 to increase.

[0106] Similarly, taking the second through hole 32 on the second support layer 3 as an example, the diameter of the second through hole on the second support layer 3 will also change accordingly due to the bending state of the second support layer 3. Simultaneously, when the display module is bent, the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 deform and move closer to each other at the bending area M corresponding to the display screen 1, and may even come into contact. If the projections of the first through hole 211 and the second through hole 32 on the thickness direction Z of the display module coincide, interference and jamming are likely to occur at the deformation positions of the corresponding first through hole 211 and second through hole 32, which is detrimental to the bending or flattening of the display module and may even cause wrinkles or creases on the display screen 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, by ensuring that the projections of the first through hole and / or the first blind hole do not coincide with the projections of the second through hole and / or the second blind hole on the thickness direction Z of the display module, interference and jamming between the holes on the first support layer 2 and the holes near the holes on the second support layer 3 can be avoided, ensuring the normal flattening or folding of the display module.

[0107] Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 11 As shown, the bending area M of the display screen 1 includes a first bending area M1, a second bending area M2, and a third bending area M3. The second bending area M2 and the third bending area M3 are respectively disposed on both sides of the first bending area M1. For example, taking the display module applied in a dual-folding screen electronic device as an example, along the width direction X of the display module, it sequentially includes a first non-bending area N1, a second bending area M2, a third bending area M3, and a second non-bending area N2. The position on the second support layer 3 corresponding to the first non-bending area N1 can be connected to the first body 10, and the position on the second support layer 3 corresponding to the second non-bending area N2 can be connected to the second body 20.

[0108] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the display module provided in the embodiments of this application in a folded state, as shown below. Figure 12 As shown, the display module can be in a "teardrop" shape when folded. In the "teardrop" shaped display module, the center of the first bending area M1 is located on the side where the display screen 1 is located; that is, the portion of the display module corresponding to the first bending area M1 is recessed on the side facing the display screen 1. The centers of the second bending area M2 and the third bending area M3 in the "teardrop" shaped display module are located on the side of the display module facing away from the display screen 1; that is, the portions of the display module corresponding to the second bending area M2 and the third bending area M3 are recessed on the side facing away from the display screen 1.

[0109] In this configuration, the first through hole and / or the first blind hole of the first support layer 2 are opposite to the first bending region M1 in the thickness direction Z of the display module. By providing the first through hole and / or the first blind hole on the first support layer 2, the bendability of the display module in the first bending region M1 can be improved.

[0110] In some other embodiments, combined with Figure 11 Through holes or blind holes can also be provided on the first support layer 2 at positions corresponding to the second bending region M2 and / or the third bending region M3, which can facilitate the bending of the second bending region M2 and the third bending region M3. Since the bending radius of the second bending region M2 and the third bending region M3 is larger than that of the first bending region M1, the distribution density of through holes or blind holes on the first support layer 2 corresponding to the second bending region M2 and / or the third bending region M3 can be less than the density of the first through holes and / or the first blind holes on the first support layer 2 corresponding to the first bending region M1.

[0111] Figure 13 This is a top view of the second support layer 3 in the display module provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 13 As shown, second through holes and / or second blind holes are provided on the second support layer 3 at positions corresponding to the second bending area M2 and the third bending area M3, which can improve the bendability of the display module at these positions. Therefore, the distribution of the first through holes and / or first blind holes on the first support layer 2 in the first bending area M1, and the distribution of the second through holes and / or second blind holes on the second support layer 3 in the second bending areas M2 and the third bending area M3, facilitates the overall folding of the display module into a "teardrop" shape.

[0112] In some other embodiments, the second through hole and / or the second blind hole may be provided only in the first groove of the thinning portion 31, and may be opposite only to the position of the second bending area M2 or the position of the third bending area M3. In some other embodiments, the second through hole and / or the second blind hole may be opposite to the position of the non-bending area, or some of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes may be opposite to the position of the non-bending area, while some of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes may be opposite to the position of the second bending area M2 or the third bending area M3. The above-described arrangement of the second through hole and / or the second blind hole can achieve good bendability of the display module.

[0113] As explained above, in the flattened state, the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 have a gap G between them at the position corresponding to the bending area M of the display screen 1, ensuring that the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 do not contact each other at this position. When the display module is folded, the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 deform at the position corresponding to the bending area M of the display screen 1, making it easier for them to contact at the gap G. Friction will be generated on the contact surface of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3. This friction will create resistance to the bending movement of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, affecting the user experience. Simultaneously, this friction will also cause wear and tear on the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, reducing their service life.

[0114] to this end, Figure 14 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, a lubricating layer 5 is provided on the side of the second support layer 3 facing the first support layer 2. The lubricating layer 5 is located on the second support layer 3 at a position opposite to the bending area M. When the display module is flattened, a gap G is maintained between the lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2. In the flattened state, the lubricating layer 5 does not fully fill the space between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3; that is, a certain gap G is still maintained between the lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2, thus ensuring that the display module as a whole has good bendability in the bending area M. During the folding process of the display module, even if the first support layer 2 contacts the lubricating layer 5 at the gap G, the excellent lubrication effect of the lubricating layer 5 significantly reduces the friction between the lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2, which is beneficial to improving the bendability of the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, enhancing the user experience, and also reducing wear on the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, extending their service life.

[0115] like Figure 14 As shown, the thickness of the lubricating layer 5 can be less than or equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer. When the surface of the second support layer 3 facing the first support layer 2 is a flat and continuous surface, even when the thickness of the lubricating layer 5 is less than the thickness of the adhesive layer, a certain gap G can still be maintained between the lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2. This gap G helps improve the bendability of the display module in the bending area M. When the thickness of the lubricating layer 5 is equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer, the lubricating layer 5 can contact the first support layer 2, thus achieving a lubrication effect and reducing the friction between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3.

[0116] like Figure 14As shown, the second support layer 3 may include a thinned portion 31 and a non-thinned portion, where the non-thinned portion is the part of the second support layer 3 other than the thinned portion 31. The surface of the thinned portion 31 facing the first support layer 2 may be coplanar with the surface of the non-thinned portion facing the first support layer 2, that is, the thinned portion 31 may be formed by removing part of the material from the side of the second support layer 3 away from the first support layer 2. The lubricating layer 5 may be disposed on the side of the thinned portion 31 facing the first support layer 2, and the adhesive layer 4 may be disposed on the non-thinned portion at a position opposite to the non-bending area of ​​the display screen 1. By making the thickness of the lubricating layer 5 less than the thickness of the adhesive layer 4, a certain gap G can be maintained between the first lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2.

[0117] Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the thinned portion 31 can also be formed by removing part of the material from the side of the second support layer 3 facing the first support layer 2. That is, the side of the thinned portion 31 facing the first support layer 2 is not coplanar with the side of the non-thinned portion facing the first support layer 2. The second support layer 3 forms a groove structure at the location of the thinned portion 31. At least a portion of the lubricant can be disposed in the groove structure, and at least a portion of the lubricating layer 5 protrudes from the groove structure so that it can contact the first support layer 2 when the display module is folded. In this case, even if the thickness of the lubricating layer 5 is equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer, a certain gap G can still be maintained between the lubricating layer 5 and the first support layer 2, which is beneficial for the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3 to have good bendability.

[0118] In some embodiments, the material of the lubricating layer 5 may include Teflon or Mylar. Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), has a relatively low coefficient of friction compared to most solid materials, giving it good lubricity. This reduces friction between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3, improving bendability and extending service life. The Teflon material can be coated onto the corresponding surface of the second support layer 3 to form a Teflon coating. Alternatively, the Teflon material can be prepared into a Teflon sheet with a stable structure, which can be fixed to the second support layer 3 using adhesives or other methods.

[0119] Furthermore, Mylar is a plastic composed of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). Mylar has good lubricity and can also reduce the friction between the first support layer 2 and the second support layer 3. Mylar can be prepared into Mylar sheets, which can be fixed to the second support layer 3 by means of adhesives or other methods.

[0120] In some other embodiments, other materials with lubricating properties may also be used, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0121] In one embodiment, the material of the second support layer 3 can be an organic composite material. Exemplarily, the organic composite material can be, but is not limited to, fibers, or a composite of polyimide and polyurethane, or a composite of polyethylene terephthalate and polyurethane. Compared to metallic materials, the second support layer 3 prepared from organic composite materials can possess both a certain degree of rigidity and good flexibility, enabling it to support the display screen 1 while ensuring the overall bendability of the display module.

[0122] In one embodiment, the material of the second support layer 3 includes a first material and a second material. The material of the portion of the second support layer 3 opposite to the bending area M of the display screen 1 is the first material, and the material of the portion of the second support layer 3 opposite to the non-bending area is the second material. The first material and the second material are different. The stiffness of the first material is less than that of the second material, making the portion of the second support layer 3 using the first material easier to bend than the portion using the second material. That is, the portion of the second support layer 3 opposite to the bending area M of the display screen 1 is easier to bend, while also providing some support. This ensures that wrinkles and creases do not appear on the display screen 1 and improves the overall bendability of the display module. In one embodiment, the first material can be an organic composite material, and the second material can be a metal.

[0123] Figure 16 A partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in another embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 16 As shown, along the distribution direction of the bending area M and the non-bending area, i.e., the width direction X of the display module, the width of the second support layer 3 is less than or equal to the width of the first support layer 2. Therefore, more space can be saved below the first support layer 2 for arranging device structures, ensuring that the display screen 1 does not crease and has good bendability while improving space utilization.

[0124] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, Includes a first body, a second body, a hinge, and a display module; The first body and the second body are respectively located on both sides of the rotating shaft, and both the first body and the second body are rotatably connected to the rotating shaft; The display module covers the first body, the second body, and the hinge; The display module includes: The display screen includes a bending area and a non-bending area, wherein the non-bending area is disposed on both sides of the bending area; A first support layer is attached to the display screen to support the display screen, and the first support layer has a pattern in the bending area that facilitates bending. The second support layer is connected to the side of the first support layer that faces away from the display screen. When the display module is flattened, there is a gap between the first support layer and the second support layer in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area. An adhesive layer is provided, through which the first support layer and the second support layer are bonded.

2. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the pattern of the bending area.

3. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the bending area.

4. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The adhesive layer is not provided in the gap.

5. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the display module, the gap between the first support layer and the second support layer is between 0.01 mm and 0.05 mm.

6. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, At least a portion of the second support layer corresponding to the bending area is provided with a thinning portion, the thickness of the thinning portion being less than the thickness of the portion of the second support layer corresponding to the non-bending area, and the thinning portion having the gap with the first support layer.

7. The foldable electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The thickness of the thinned portion is between 0.02 mm and 0.05 mm.

8. The foldable electronic device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The pattern includes a plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes, and along the thickness direction of the display module, the projection of the thinned portion at least partially overlaps with the projection of the plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes.

9. The foldable electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second support layer is provided with a second through hole and / or a second blind hole, and the second through hole and / or the second blind hole is provided on at least one side of the thinned portion along the distribution direction of the bending area and the non-bending area.

10. The foldable electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the display module, the projections of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of first blind holes do not coincide with the projections of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes.

11. The foldable electronic device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The bending area includes a first bending area, a second bending area, and a third bending area. The second bending area and the third bending area are respectively disposed on both sides of the first bending area. The plurality of first through holes and / or first blind holes are opposite to the first bending area, and the second through holes and / or second blind holes are opposite to the second bending area and / or the third bending area and / or the non-bending area.

12. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The adhesive layer is positioned opposite the non-bending area, or at least a portion of the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the bending area.

13. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, A lubricating layer is provided on the side of the second support layer facing the first support layer, and the lubricating layer is located on the second support layer at a position opposite to the bending area; when the display module is flattened, the lubricating layer and the first support layer maintain the gap.

14. The foldable electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The thickness of the lubricating layer is less than or equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer.

15. The foldable electronic device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The material of the lubricating layer includes Teflon or Mylar.

16. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The material of the second support layer is an organic composite material.

17. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The material of the second support layer includes a first material and a second material. The material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the bending area is the first material, and the material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the non-bending area is the second material. The first material and the second material are different.

18. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, Along the distribution direction of the bent area and the non-bent area, the width dimension of the second support layer is less than or equal to the width dimension of the first support layer.

19. A display module, characterized in that, include: The display screen includes a bending area and a non-bending area, wherein the non-bending area is disposed on both sides of the bending area; A first support layer is attached to the display screen to support the display screen, and the first support layer has a pattern in the bending area that facilitates bending. The second support layer is connected to the side of the first support layer that faces away from the display screen. When the display module is flattened, there is a gap between the first support layer and the second support layer in all or part of the area corresponding to the bending area. An adhesive layer is provided, through which the first support layer and the second support layer are bonded.

20. The foldable electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the pattern of the bending area.

21. The foldable electronic device according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The second support layer forms a bamboo book structure in the bending area.

22. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-21, characterized in that, The adhesive layer is not provided in the gap.

23. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-22, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the display screen, the gap between the first support layer and the second support layer is between 0.01mm and 0.05mm.

24. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-23, characterized in that, At least a portion of the second support layer corresponding to the bending area is provided with a thinning portion, the thickness of the thinning portion being less than the thickness of the portion of the second support layer corresponding to the non-bending area, and the thinning portion having the gap with the first support layer.

25. The foldable electronic device according to claim 24, characterized in that, The thickness of the thinned portion is between 0.02 mm and 0.05 mm.

26. The foldable electronic device according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that, The pattern includes a plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes, and along the thickness direction of the display module, the projection of the thinned portion at least partially overlaps with the projection of the plurality of first through holes and / or a plurality of blind holes.

27. The foldable electronic device according to claim 26, characterized in that, The second support layer is provided with a second through hole and / or a second blind hole, and the second through hole and / or the second blind hole is provided on at least one side of the thinned portion along the distribution direction of the bending area and the non-bending area.

28. The foldable electronic device according to claim 27, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the display module, the projections of the plurality of first through holes and / or the plurality of first blind holes do not coincide with the projections of the second through holes and / or the second blind holes.

29. The foldable electronic device according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that, The bending area includes a first bending area, a second bending area, and a third bending area. The second bending area and the third bending area are respectively disposed on both sides of the first bending area. The plurality of first through holes and / or first blind holes are opposite to the first bending area, and the second through holes and / or second blind holes are opposite to the second bending area and / or the third bending area and / or the non-bending area.

30. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-29, characterized in that, The adhesive layer is positioned opposite the non-bending area, or at least a portion of the adhesive layer is positioned opposite the bending area.

31. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-30, characterized in that, A lubricating layer is provided on the side of the second support layer facing the first support layer, and the lubricating layer is located on the second support layer at a position opposite to the bending area; when the display module is flattened, the lubricating layer and the first support layer maintain the gap.

32. The foldable electronic device according to claim 31, characterized in that, The thickness of the lubricating layer is less than or equal to the thickness of the adhesive layer.

33. The foldable electronic device according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that, The material of the lubricating layer includes Teflon or Mylar.

34. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-33, characterized in that, The material of the second support layer is an organic composite material.

35. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-33, characterized in that, The material of the second support layer includes a first material and a second material. The material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the bending area is the first material, and the material of the portion of the second support layer opposite to the non-bending area is the second material. The first material and the second material are different.

36. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 19-35, characterized in that, Along the distribution direction of the bent area and the non-bent area, the width dimension of the second support layer is less than or equal to the width dimension of the first support layer.

Images