Apparatus for manufacturing coated glass and electronic device
By combining roll-to-roll gap coating technology and curing unit, the challenges of resin thickness and shape control were solved, resulting in improved flatness and reduced cost of coated glass.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-07
AI Technical Summary
Existing technologies make it difficult to effectively control the thickness and shape of the resin when manufacturing coated glass, resulting in high production costs.
The roll-to-roll gap coating technology is used to coat the glass with resin, and the thickness and shape of the resin are controlled by the first and second rollers. The resin is then cured by the curing unit to form coated glass.
By controlling the thickness and shape of the resin, the flatness of the coated glass was improved, and production costs were reduced.
Smart Images
Figure CN122344091A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to equipment for manufacturing coated glass and electronic devices including coated glass. Background Technology
[0002] With the increasing interest in information display, research and development of display devices are ongoing. Summary of the Invention
[0003] Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass, which is manufactured to have improved quality and reduced production costs.
[0004] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass includes: a substrate supply unit, a substrate wound on the substrate supply unit, wherein the substrate includes glass, a first film attached to a first side of the glass, and a protective film attached to a second side of the glass; a first film removal unit configured to remove the protective film from the substrate; a resin supply unit configured to supply resin onto the first film and the glass; a first roller configured to convey the first film; and a second roller spaced apart from the first roller and configured to convey a second film, wherein the first film and the second film are in close contact between the first roller and the second roller, and the resin fills the space between the first film and the second film around the glass to form the coated glass.
[0005] In one embodiment, the second membrane may be configured to lift the resin from the resin supply unit and provide the resin onto the first membrane and the glass.
[0006] In one embodiment, the resin supply unit may be configured to coat the resin onto the second film.
[0007] In one embodiment, the resin supply unit may be configured to coat the resin onto the first film and the glass.
[0008] In one embodiment, the thickness of the coated glass may be equal to the gap between the first roller and the second roller.
[0009] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a curing unit configured to cure the resin filling the space between the first film and the second film around the glass.
[0010] In one embodiment, the curing unit may include a first plate for pressing the first film and a second plate for pressing the second film.
[0011] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a glass winding unit on which the coated glass is wound.
[0012] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a second film removal unit configured to remove the second film.
[0013] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include an attachment unit configured to attach a release film to the resin.
[0014] In one embodiment, the attachment unit may include a third roller and a fourth roller spaced apart from each other.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes: a display panel; and a coated glass on the display panel, wherein the coated glass is manufactured by the apparatus for manufacturing the coated glass.
[0016] In one embodiment, the coated glass may include glass on the display panel and resin between the display panel and the glass.
[0017] In one embodiment, the coated glass may further include a second adhesive layer between the display panel and the resin.
[0018] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a protective layer on the coated glass.
[0019] In one embodiment, the coated glass may further include a first adhesive layer between the glass and the protective layer.
[0020] In one embodiment, the coated glass may further include a light-shielding layer between the glass and the protective layer.
[0021] In one embodiment, the light-shielding layer may overlap with the edge of the glass.
[0022] In one embodiment, the resin may include an ultraviolet (UV) absorber.
[0023] In one embodiment, the resin may include a fluorescent additive.
[0024] Further details of other embodiments are included in the specification and drawings.
[0025] According to embodiments of this disclosure, resin is coated onto glass using roll-to-roll gap coating, making it easy to control the thickness and shape of the resin, thereby improving the flatness of the resin and reducing manufacturing costs.
[0026] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the examples above, and many more effects are included in the specification. Attached Figure Description
[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0028] Figure 2 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0029] Figures 3 to 7 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0030] Figures 8 to 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0031] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0032] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0033] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0034] Figure 17 This is a top view of the coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0035] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0036] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.
[0037] Figure 20 It is based on Figure 19 A plan view of the display panel of an embodiment.
[0038] Figure 21 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.
[0039] Figure 22 These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0040] The invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Similar reference numerals always refer to similar elements.
[0041] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or an intermediary element may be present therein. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, no intermediary element is present. Throughout the specification, when a component is referred to as being "connected" to another component, this can include not only "direct connection" but also "indirect connection" using other elements in between.
[0042] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or segment from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings herein, the first element, component, area, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or segment.
[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only 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. Thus, reference to an element as “a” in the claims is followed by reference to an element as “the” including one element and multiple said elements. For example, “a single element” has the same meaning as “at least one element” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” is not to be construed as limited to “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. “At least one of X, Y, and Z” and “selected from at least one of X, Y, and Z” can be interpreted as one X, one Y, one Z, or some combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XY, YZ, XZ). It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.
[0044] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as “below” and “above” may be used to describe the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the figures and another element(s). Spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations in use, operation, and / or manufacture other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if the device shown in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” other elements or features may be positioned “above” other elements or features. Thus, in embodiments, the term “below” may encompass both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore the spatially relative terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly.
[0045] Unless otherwise specified, 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 be further understood that terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this disclosure and the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
[0046] Various embodiments can be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which exemplify preferred embodiments. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the shape may vary depending on, for example, tolerances and / or manufacturing techniques. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes shown, but should be interpreted as including variations in shape, for example, due to manufacturing processes. Thus, the shapes shown in the figures may not depict the actual shapes of the various areas of the device, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.
[0047] The embodiments are described herein with reference to illustrative cross-sectional illustrations as idealized examples. Thus, variations in the illustrated shape will be anticipated due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the regions illustrated herein, but should include shape deviations due to, for example, manufacturing processes. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, illustrated sharp corners may be rounded. Therefore, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate precise shapes of the regions, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.
[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 2 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment. Figures 3 to 7 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment. Figures 8 to 13This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment. Figures 8 to 13 The coated glass CG shown can be manufactured using equipment for manufacturing coated glass according to embodiments. Figures 3 to 7 In the description, the part with can be omitted. Figure 1 Any repetitive detailed description of those elements that are the same as or similar to those elements.
[0049] refer to Figures 1 to 13 In one embodiment, the coated glass CG to be manufactured by equipment for manufacturing coated glass may include at least one glass GL and a resin RS coated on the glass GL. In one embodiment, the coated glass CG may be applied to a display device and / or an electronic device including the display device. In one embodiment, for example, a portion of the film of the coated glass CG may be removed and then attached to a display panel of the display device, etc. In one embodiment, the electronic device may include a display panel and the coated glass CG on the display panel.
[0050] refer to Figure 1 Embodiments of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may include a substrate supply unit RG, a resin supply unit RU, a first film removal unit RPF, coating units R1 and R2, a curing unit CR, and / or a glass winding unit RCG.
[0051] The substrate supply unit RG can be used to supply substrates to coating units R1 and R2. In one embodiment, the substrate can be wound around the substrate supply unit RG; for example, the substrate supply unit RG may include a substrate unwinding roller around which the substrate is wound. The substrate supply unit RG (e.g., the substrate unwinding roller) can be rotated by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not necessarily limited to this.
[0052] The substrate may include a first film FL1, a glass GL, and / or a protective film PF. The first film FL1 may be attached to a first side (or a first surface) of the glass GL, and the protective film PF may be attached to a second side (or a second surface) of the glass GL opposite to the first side. In one embodiment, the adhesion of the first film FL1 to the glass GL may be higher than the adhesion of the protective film PF to the glass GL, but this is not a limitation. In this embodiment where the adhesion of the protective film PF is relatively low, the protective film PF can be easily removed from the substrate.
[0053] The first film removal unit RPF can be used to remove the protective film PF from the substrate or configured to remove the protective film PF from the substrate. The first film removal unit RPF may include a protective film winding roller around which the protective film PF detached from the substrate is wound. The first film removal unit RPF (or protective film winding roller) can be driven to rotate by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not necessarily limited to this.
[0054] In one embodiment, as described above, the substrate wound on the substrate supply unit RG is unwound and the protective film PF can be removed. The removed protective film PF can be wound around the first film removal unit RPF, and the glass GL can be transferred to the coating units R1, R2 side while being attached to the first film FL1.
[0055] The resin supply unit RU can be used to store resin RS and supply resin RS to the first film FL1 and / or glass GL. In one embodiment, for example, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the resin supply unit RU may include or define a resin tank for receiving resin RS. According to one embodiment, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the resin supply unit RU can be configured to coat the resin RS onto the first film FL1, the glass GL, and / or the second film FL2. In one embodiment, the resin supply unit RU may include, but is not necessarily limited to, a slot coater, a dispenser, a curtain coater, an inkjet device, etc.
[0056] A resin supply unit RU can be disposed between a substrate supply unit RG and coating units R1, R2. The resin RS in the resin supply unit RU can be provided on the first film FL1 and / or the glass GL during the process of attaching the glass GL to the first film FL1 and transferring it to the coating units R1, R2. In one embodiment, the resin RS may have a viscosity of about 10,000 cps or less, but is not limited thereto.
[0057] Coating units R1 and R2 may include a first roller R1 and / or a second roller R2. The first roller R1 may be configured to deliver a first film FL1 and / or glass GL. The second roller R2 may be configured to deliver a second film FL2. The first film FL1 and the second film FL2 are in close contact with resin RS between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2, such that the resin RS can fill around the glass GL to form a coated glass CG. In one embodiment, for example, the first roller R1 and the second roller R2 may provide pressure to coat the resin RS around the glass GL.
[0058] The first roller R1 and the second roller R2 may be spaced apart from each other. The first roller R1 and the second roller R2 may be spaced apart to allow the first film FL1, the glass GL, and / or the second film FL2 to pass through therebetween. The thickness of the coated glass CG can be controlled by adjusting the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2. In one embodiment, for example, the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2 may be equal to the thickness of the coated glass CG. In one embodiment, as... Figure 3 As shown, the first roller R1 may be located above the second roller R2, but is not necessarily limited to this. In another embodiment, for example, as... Figure 4 As shown, the second roller R2 is located above the first roller R1, and the arrangement of the first roller R1 and the second roller R2 can be changed differently.
[0059] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a second film supply unit RFL2 for supplying a second film FL2. The second film supply unit RFL2 may include a second film unwinding roller around which the second film FL2 is wound. The second film supply unit RFL2 (or the second film unwinding roller) may be driven to rotate by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not necessarily limited thereto.
[0060] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the second membrane FL2 can be conveyed through the resin supply unit RU. In one embodiment, for example, the second membrane FL2 can be used to lift (or lift from the resin supply unit RU) the resin RS and supply or transfer the resin RS to the first membrane FL1 and the glass GL. As the first membrane FL1 and the second membrane FL2 move closer together between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2, the first membrane FL1 and the second membrane FL2 are in close (indirect) contact with each other, making it possible to increase the pressure and velocity of the resin RS. At this time, unwanted air bubbles can move to the resin supply unit RU where the pressure is low, making it possible to effectively remove air bubbles around the glass GL, and the resin RS can be uniformly filled around the glass GL.
[0061] The curing unit CR can be positioned between the coating units R1 and R2 and the glass winding unit RCG. A first film FL1 and a second film FL2, in close contact with each other between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2, can be transferred and supplied to the curing unit CR. The resin RS, filling the space between the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 and surrounding the glass GL, passes through the curing unit CR and can be cured.
[0062] The curing unit CR may include an ultraviolet (UV) irradiation unit. In one embodiment, for example, the curing unit CR may include a first UV irradiation unit and a second UV irradiation unit. The first UV irradiation unit may be disposed above the first film FL1. The second UV irradiation unit may be disposed below the second film FL2. However, the invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the curing unit CR may be configured differently.
[0063] According to one embodiment, the curing unit CR may include a heating unit. In one embodiment, for example, the curing unit CR may include a first heating unit and a second heating unit. The first heating unit may be disposed above the first film FL1. The second heating unit may be disposed below the second film FL2. However, the invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the curing unit CR may be configured differently.
[0064] According to one embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, curing units CR1 and CR2 may include a first curing unit CR1 and a second curing unit CR2. In this embodiment, the first curing unit CR1 may include a UV irradiation unit. In one embodiment, for example, the first curing unit CR1 may include a first UV irradiation unit and a second UV irradiation unit. The first UV irradiation unit may be disposed above the first film FL1. The second UV irradiation unit may be disposed below the second film FL2. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the first curing unit CR1 may be configured differently.
[0065] In this embodiment, the second curing unit CR2 may include a heating unit. In one embodiment, for example, the second curing unit CR2 may include a first heating unit and a second heating unit. The first heating unit may be disposed above the first film FL1. The second heating unit may be disposed below the second film FL2. However, the invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the second curing unit CR2 may be configured differently.
[0066] In one embodiment, the first curing unit CR1 may be disposed between the coating units R1 and R2 and the second curing unit CR2, but it is not necessarily limited to this.
[0067] According to one embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first curing unit CR1 may further include a first plate PT1 and / or a second plate PT2. The first plate PT1 and the second plate PT2 can press against the first film FL1 and / or the second film FL2 to improve the flatness of the coated glass CG. In one embodiment, for example, the first plate PT1 may be disposed above the first film FL1, and the second plate PT2 may be disposed below the second film FL2. The first plate PT1 can press against the first film FL1, and the second plate PT2 can press against the second film FL2. In one embodiment, the gap between the first plate PT1 and the second plate PT2 may be the same as the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2. According to one embodiment, the gap between the first plate PT1 and the second plate PT2 may be smaller than the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2. The gap between the first plate PT1 and the second plate PT2 can be adjusted to press against the first film FL1 and / or the second film FL2, thereby improving the flatness of the coated glass CG and improving surface quality. In one embodiment, the first plate PT1 and / or the second plate PT2 may comprise or be formed of glass or quartz material, but are not necessarily limited to these.
[0068] According to one embodiment, such as Figure 7As shown, the second curing unit CR2 may further include a third plate PT3 and / or a fourth plate PT4. The third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4 may press against the first film FL1 and / or the second film FL2 to improve the flatness of the coated glass CG. In one embodiment, the third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4 may include hot plates. In this embodiment, the resin RS filling the space between the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 around the glass GL can be thermo-cured by the third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4, but is not necessarily limited thereto.
[0069] In this embodiment, a third plate PT3 can be disposed above the first film FL1, and a fourth plate PT4 can be disposed below the second film FL2. The third plate PT3 can pressurize and / or heat-treat the first film FL1, and the fourth plate PT4 can pressurize and / or heat-treat the second film FL2. In one embodiment, the gap between the third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4 can be the same as the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2. According to one embodiment, the gap between the third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4 can be smaller than the gap between the first roller R1 and the second roller R2. The gap between the third plate PT3 and the fourth plate PT4 can be adjusted to press the first film FL1 and / or the second film FL2, thereby improving the flatness of the coated glass CG and improving surface quality.
[0070] although Figure 6 An embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass includes a first curing unit CR1, and Figure 7 An example of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass includes a second curing unit CR2, but the invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and as... Figure 5 As shown, the equipment for manufacturing coated glass may include a first curing unit CR1 comprising a first plate PT1 and / or a second plate PT2, and a second curing unit CR2 comprising a third plate PT3 and / or a fourth plate PT4.
[0071] A glass winding unit (RCG) can be used to wind coated glass (CG) that has undergone coating and curing processes. The RCG may include a glass winding roller around which the coated glass (CG) is wound. The RCG (or the glass winding roller) can be rotated by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not limited to this. The coated glass (CG) may be provided wound on the glass winding roller, or may undergo subsequent processes such as cutting, peeling, or film adhesion. References will follow below. Figures 14 to 18 Provide a detailed description.
[0072] refer to Figure 8The coated glass CG manufactured by the aforementioned apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may include glass GL between a first film FL1 and a second film FL2, and resin RS filling around the glass GL. The glass GLs may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1. The upper surface of the glass GL is attached to the first film FL1, and the lower and side surfaces of the glass GL may be covered by the resin RS.
[0073] refer to Figure 9 The side surface of the resin RS may include a recess RS'. The recess RS' may have a shape that is recessed inwards or towards the glass GL. The recess RS' may be formed by the contact angle between the resin RS and the films FL1 and FL2, as well as by gravity. The recess RS' may be located inside the side or edge of the first film FL1. The recess RS' may be located inside the side or edge of the second film FL2. The recess RS' can be cut off and removed in a subsequent process.
[0074] refer to Figure 10 The coated glass CG may further include a first adhesive layer ALA. The first adhesive layer ALA may be disposed between the first film FL1 and the glass GL. The first adhesive layer ALA may be provided on the first film FL1 to attach the glass GL during the above-described process for preparing and supplying the substrate.
[0075] refer to Figure 11 The coated glass CG may further include a light-shielding layer BL. The light-shielding layer BL may be disposed between the first film FL1 and the glass GL. The light-shielding layer BL may overlap the edge of the glass GL on a third-direction DR3 or in the thickness direction of the glass GL. In one embodiment, the light-shielding layer BL may be printed on the first film FL1, but is not necessarily limited thereto.
[0076] refer to Figure 12 In one embodiment, the resin RS may include a UV absorber RSa. In this embodiment, the coated glass CG can be easily cut by using UV lines and a UV camera to distinguish the boundary lines or edges of the glass GL. In embodiments, for example, where the resin RS includes a UV absorber, the area surrounding the glass GL may appear darker than the glass GL, thereby distinguishing the edges of the glass GL during the process of cutting the coated glass CG.
[0077] refer to Figure 13 In one embodiment, the resin RS may include a fluorescent additive RSb. In this embodiment, the coated glass CG can be easily cut by distinguishing the boundary line or edge of the glass GL. In one embodiment, for example, when the resin RS includes a fluorescent additive, the area around the glass GL may appear brighter than the glass GL, thereby distinguishing the edge of the glass GL and cutting the coated glass CG.
[0078] In one embodiment, the coated glass CG includes glass GL and can be wound around a glass winding unit RCG (or glass winding roller) to complete in a roll form. In another embodiment, the roll-form coated glass CG can be attached with a release film in a subsequent process, or the glass GL can be separated from each other via a cutting process. Reference will be made below. Figures 14 to 18 Provide a detailed description.
[0079] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 17 This is a top view of the coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the coated glass according to an embodiment. Figure 17 and Figure 18 The coated glass CG shown can be manufactured using an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to an embodiment.
[0080] refer to Figure 14 The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a second film removal unit RFL2' and / or attachment units R3, R4.
[0081] The second film removal unit RFL2' can be used to remove the second film FL2 coated with glass CG. The second film FL2 coated with glass CG can be removed to expose the resin RS. The second film removal unit RFL2' may include a second film winding roller around which the second film FL2 separated from the coated glass CG is wound. The second film removal unit RFL2' (or the second film winding roller) can be rotated by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not necessarily limited to this. The coated glass CG with the second film FL2 removed can be conveyed to the side of the attachment units R3, R4.
[0082] In one embodiment, the apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a release film supply unit (not shown). The release film supply unit may be used to provide a release film LN onto the resin RS. The release film supply unit may include a release film unwinding roller around which the release film LN is wound. The release film supply unit (or the release film unwinding roller) may be rotary driven by a rotary drive unit (not shown), but is not necessarily limited thereto.
[0083] In one embodiment, a second adhesive layer ALB may be further disposed on the upper surface of the release film LN. The release film LN can be attached to the resin RS via the second adhesive layer ALB. However, this disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and according to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer ALB may be omitted.
[0084] The attachment units R3 and R4 may include a third roller R3 and / or a fourth roller R4. The third roller R3 may deliver a first film FL1, glass GL, and / or resin RS. The fourth roller R4 may deliver a release film LN and / or a second adhesive layer ALB. The first film FL1 and the release film LN are in close (indirect) contact with each other between the third roller R3 and the fourth roller R4, allowing the resin RS and the release film LN to be attached to each other. In one embodiment, for example, the third roller R3 and the fourth roller R4 may apply pressure to the resin RS and the release film LN to be attached.
[0085] The third roller R3 and the fourth roller R4 may be spaced apart from each other. The third roller R3 and the fourth roller R4 may be spaced apart to allow the first film FL1, glass GL, resin RS, second adhesive layer ALB and / or release film LN to pass through between them. The third roller R3 may be located above the fourth roller R4, but is not necessarily limited to this.
[0086] refer to Figure 15 The coated glass CG, manufactured using equipment for manufacturing coated glass, may include glass GL between a first film FL1 and a release film LN, and resin RS filling around the glass GL. The glass GLs may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1. The upper surface of the glass GL is attached to the first film FL1, and the lower and side surfaces of the glass GL may be covered by the resin RS. The upper surface of the second adhesive layer ALB may be in direct contact with the resin RS. The lower surface of the second adhesive layer ALB may be in direct contact with the release film LN.
[0087] refer to Figures 16 to 18 The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass may further include a cutting unit. In one embodiment, for example, the coated glass CG may be cut along the boundary line or periphery of the edge of the glass GL to separate the glass GL from each other. In one embodiment, for example, the first film FL1, resin RS, second adhesive layer ALB, and / or release film LN may be cut along the boundary line or periphery of the edge of the glass GL to separate the glass GL from each other. In one embodiment, even if the coated glass GL is cut, the sides of the glass GL may still be covered by resin RS. In one embodiment, the cutting unit may include, but is not necessarily limited to, a laser cutting device or a stamping device.
[0088] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, as described above, by using roll-to-roll gap coating to coat the resin RS onto the glass GL, the thickness and shape of the resin RS can be easily controlled, thereby improving the flatness of the resin RS and reducing manufacturing costs.
[0089] In the following text, a display device comprising a coated glass CG manufactured by the above-described apparatus for manufacturing coated glass, and an electronic device comprising the display device will be described.
[0090] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.
[0091] refer to Figure 19 An embodiment of the display device DD may include a first region A1, a second region A2, and / or a folding region FA. The folding region FA may be located between the first region A1 and the second region A2. The first region A1, the folding region FA, and the second region A2 may be arranged sequentially along a first direction DR1. The folding region FA may be folded or unfolded (i.e., foldable) about a folding axis (or folding line) extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1.
[0092] The display device DD may include a display panel DP, support plates S1, S2 and PT, a polarizing component POL, coated glass CG and / or a protective layer PL.
[0093] The display panel DP can be folded or unfolded around a folding axis. The display panel DP can include a first region A1, a second region A2, and a folding region FA. The folding region FA can be located between the first region A1 and the second region A2. The first region A1, the folding region FA, and the second region A2 can be arranged sequentially along a first direction DR1. The folding region FA can be folded or unfolded around a folding axis (or folding line) extending on a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1.
[0094] Figure 20 It is based on Figure 19 A plan view of the display panel of an embodiment.
[0095] refer to Figure 20 An embodiment of the display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display panel DP is capable of displaying images through the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may be disposed around the periphery of the display area DA.
[0096] The display panel (DP) may include a substrate (SUB), sub-pixels (SP), and pads (PD).
[0097] Subpixels SP can be disposed on the substrate SUB in the display area DA. Subpixels SP can be arranged in a matrix along a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the embodiments are not so limited. In one embodiment, for example, subpixels SP can be arranged in a zigzag pattern along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In one embodiment, for example, subpixels SP can be arranged in a cellular pattern. The first direction DR1 can be a row direction, and the second direction DR2 can be a column direction. Two or more subpixels in subpixels SP can constitute a pixel PXL.
[0098] The pad PD can be set on the substrate SUB in the non-display area NDA. The pad PD can be electrically connected to the sub-pixel SP via wiring.
[0099] The pads (PD) enable the display panel (DP) to connect to other components of the display device (DD) via an interface. In one embodiment, the voltages and signals required for the operation of components included in the display panel (DP) can be provided from the driver integrated circuit via the pads (PD).
[0100] In one embodiment, the circuit board can be electrically connected to the pads (PD) using a conductive adhesive member such as an anisotropic conductive film. In this embodiment, the circuit board can be a flexible circuit board or a flexible film with a flexible material. The driver integrated circuit can be mounted to the circuit board and electrically connected to the pads (PD).
[0101] In one embodiment, the display area DA can have various shapes. The display area DA can have a closed loop shape including straight edges and / or curved edges. In one embodiment, for example, the display area DA can have a polygonal, circular, semi-circular, elliptical, or other shapes.
[0102] In one embodiment, the display panel DP may have a flat display surface. In another embodiment, the display panel DP may have a display surface that is at least partially arcuate. In one embodiment, the display panel DP may be flexible, foldable, or rollable. In this embodiment, the display panel DP and / or the substrate SUB may comprise a material with flexible properties.
[0103] The display panel (DP) may include a substrate, a display element attached to the substrate, at least one conductive line attached to the substrate and electrically connected to the display element, and / or a thin-film encapsulation layer.
[0104] Display elements are disposed on a substrate and are capable of forming or defining a large number of pixels. In one embodiment, for example, display elements can be arranged in a matrix on the substrate to form pixels of a display panel DP. In one embodiment, for example, display elements may include, but are not necessarily limited to, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
[0105] The conductive lines may include at least one gate signal line or at least one data signal line. In one embodiment, the conductive lines may include both gate signal lines and data signal lines. In this embodiment, the gate signal lines and data signal lines are arranged in a matrix, and the points where the display element intersects with these lines are aligned adjacently, enabling the display element to be electrically connected to these lines.
[0106] A thin-film encapsulation layer can cover a substrate, display elements, and / or conductive lines to prevent oxygen and moisture from entering from the outside. In one embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer can be formed by alternately stacking one or more organic layers and one or more inorganic layers. In this embodiment, the outermost layer of the thin-film encapsulation layer can be formed of an inorganic layer to effectively prevent moisture penetration, but is not limited thereto.
[0107] Return to reference Figure 19 Support plates S1, S2, and PT can be disposed below the display panel DP. Support plates S1, S2, and PT can be placed on the bottom surface of the display panel DP to support the display panel DP and to enhance rigidity. Support plates S1, S2, and PT may contain, but are not necessarily limited to, carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, and / or stainless steel, or be formed of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, and / or stainless steel.
[0108] Support plates S1, S2, and PT may include a first support portion S1, a second support portion S2, and / or a patterned portion PT. The patterned portion PT may be located between the first support portion S1 and the second support portion S2. The first support portion S1, the patterned portion PT, and the second support portion S2 may be arranged sequentially along a first direction DR1. The patterned portion PT may be folded or unfolded around a folding axis (or folding line) extending in a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1.
[0109] The first support portion S1 may overlap with the first region A1 on the third-direction DR3 or in the thickness direction of the display panel DP. In one embodiment, for example, in the unfolded state, the first support portion S1 may overlap with the first region A1 on the third-direction DR3. The second support portion S2 may overlap with the second region A2. In one embodiment, for example, in the unfolded state, the second support portion S2 may overlap with the second region A2 on the third-direction DR3.
[0110] The patterned portion PT can overlap with the folded area FA. The patterned portion PT can be used to minimize the deformation of the display panel DP in the folded area FA.
[0111] The pattern portion PT can define the opening pattern. The opening pattern of the pattern portion PT can have a through-hole shape, but is not limited to this.
[0112] The polarizing element (POL) can be placed on top of the display panel (DP). An adhesive layer can be further disposed between the polarizing element (POL) and the display panel (DP). The polarizing element (POL) can be used to prevent visibility degradation due to reflection of external light. In another embodiment, the polarizing element (POL) can be omitted.
[0113] The coated glass CG can be placed on top of the display panel DP. The coated glass CG can be attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL. The lower surface of the second adhesive layer ALB of the coated glass CG can contact the polarizing member POL, and the upper surface of the glass GL and / or the upper surface of the resin RS can contact the protective layer PL. According to one embodiment, when the second adhesive layer ALB is omitted, the resin RS of the coated glass CG can contact the polarizing member POL.
[0114] although Figure 19 Example: The first membrane FL1 and the release membrane LN are separated from... Figure 18 An embodiment is described where the coated glass CG is removed and the first film FL1 and release film LN, from which the coated glass CG has been removed, are attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL; however, the invention is not necessarily limited to this. In one embodiment, for example, refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 19 After cutting and coating the glass CG, the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 can be removed, and the coated glass CG can be attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL. (Reference already provided) Figure 16 The process for cutting and coating glass CG is described, therefore any repetitive detailed descriptions will be omitted. The lower surface of the resin RS coating the glass CG may contact the polarizing member POL, and the upper surface of the glass GL and / or the upper surface of the resin RS may contact the protective layer PL.
[0115] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 19 After cutting and coating the glass CG, the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 can be removed, and the coated glass CG can be attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL. (Reference already provided) Figure 16 The process for cutting and coating glass CG is described, therefore any repetitive detailed descriptions will be omitted. A first adhesive layer ALA may be further disposed between glass GL and / or resin RS and protective layer PL. The lower surface of the resin RS coating the glass CG contacts the polarizing member POL, and the upper surface of the first adhesive layer ALA contacts the protective layer PL.
[0116] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 19 After cutting and coating the glass CG, the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 can be removed, and the coated glass CG can be attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL. (Reference already provided) Figure 16 The process for cutting and coating glass CG is described, therefore any repetitive detailed descriptions will be omitted. A light-shielding layer BL may be further arranged between glass GL and / or resin RS and protective layer PL. The lower surface of the resin RS coating the glass CG may contact the polarizing element POL, and the upper surface of glass GL and / or the upper surface of the light-shielding layer BL may also contact the protective layer PL.
[0117] refer to Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 19 After cutting the coated glass CG, the first film FL1 and the second film FL2 can be removed, and the coated glass CG can be attached to the upper surface of the polarizing member POL. As described above, in... Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, where the resin RS contains the UV absorber RSa, the coated glass CG can be easily cut by distinguishing the boundary line or edge of the glass GL. As described above, in... Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, where the resin RS contains the fluorescent additive RSb, the coated glass CG can be easily cut by distinguishing the boundary lines or edges of the glass GL. References have been made to... Figure 16 The process of cutting coated glass CG is described, therefore any repetitive detailed descriptions will be omitted.
[0118] The display device DD according to the embodiment can be applied to various electronic devices. The electronic device according to the embodiment includes the above-described display device DD, and may further include modules or devices with other additional functions in addition to the display device DD.
[0119] Figure 21 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.
[0120] refer to Figure 21 The electronic device 10 according to the embodiment may include a display module 11, a processor 12, a memory 13 and a power module 14.
[0121] The processor 12 may include at least one selected from a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller.
[0122] Data information for the operation of processor 12 or display module 11 can be stored in memory 13. When processor 12 executes the application stored in memory 13, image data signals and / or input control signals can be transmitted to display module 11, and display module 11 can process the received signals and output image information through the display screen (i.e., pixels).
[0123] The power module 14 may include a power module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power module to generate the power required for the operation of the electronic device 10.
[0124] At least one of the aforementioned components of the electronic device 10 may be included in the display device according to the above embodiments. Additionally, some modules that are functionally included within a single module may be included in the display device, while other modules may be provided independently of the display device. In one embodiment, for example, the display device includes a display module 11, and the processor 12, memory 13, and power module 14 may be provided in the electronic device 10 in the form of other devices different from the display device.
[0125] Figure 22 These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments.
[0126] refer to Figure 22 The various electronic devices used in the display device according to the embodiment may include electronic devices for image display such as smartphones 10_1a, tablet PCs 10_1b, laptop computers 10_1c, televisions 10_1d, and desktop monitors 10_1e; wearable electronic devices including display modules such as smart glasses 10_2a, head-mounted displays 10_2b, and smartwatches 10_2c; and vehicle electronic devices 10_3 including display modules such as central information displays (CIDs) installed on the instrument panel, center console, and dashboard of a car, and interior mirror displays.
[0127] This invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.
[0128] Although the invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims
1. An apparatus for manufacturing coated glass, comprising: A substrate supply unit, wherein a substrate is wound on the substrate supply unit, and wherein the substrate includes glass, a first film attached to a first side of the glass, and a protective film attached to a second side of the glass; A first film removal unit is configured to remove the protective film from the substrate; A resin supply unit is configured to supply resin to the first film and the glass of the substrate; A first roller is configured to convey the first film; as well as The second roller, spaced apart from the first roller, is configured to deliver the second film. The first film and the second film are in close contact between the first roller and the second roller, and the resin is filled between the first film and the second film around the glass to form the coated glass.
2. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 1, The second membrane is configured to lift the resin from the resin supply unit and provide the resin onto the first membrane and the glass.
3. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 1, The resin supply unit is configured to coat the resin onto the second film.
4. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 1, The resin supply unit is configured to coat the resin onto the first film and the glass.
5. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 1, The thickness of the coated glass is equal to the gap between the first roller and the second roller.
6. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 1, further comprising: A curing unit configured to cure the resin filling the space between the first film and the second film around the glass.
7. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to claim 6, The curing unit includes a first plate for pressing the first film and a second plate for pressing the second film.
8. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A glass winding unit, wherein the coated glass is wound on the glass winding unit.
9. The apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A second membrane removal unit is configured to remove the second membrane.
10. An electronic device comprising: Display panel; as well as Coated glass, on the display panel, The coated glass is manufactured using an apparatus for manufacturing coated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 9.