Display device, method of manufacturing the same, and electronic device including the same

Abstract

A display device, a method of manufacturing the same, and an electronic device including the display device are provided. The display device includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region; a polarizing layer located in the first region and on the display panel; and a bending protective layer located in the bent region and including an end in direct contact with the polarizing layer. The upper surface of the one end extending in the second direction intersecting the first direction is bent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to display devices, methods of manufacturing the same, and electronic devices including display devices. More specifically, this disclosure relates to display devices that provide visual information, methods of manufacturing the same, and electronic devices including display devices. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices are manufactured and used in various ways. Display devices can provide visual information to users by emitting light. Such display devices can include liquid crystal displays (LCDs) that use liquid crystal layers to emit light or organic light-emitting displays (OLEDs) that use organic light-emitting materials to emit light.

[0003] In a display device, the area of ​​the non-display area can be reduced by bending at least a portion of the display device. In the manufacturing process of such a display device in which at least a portion is bent, methods are being sought to minimize defects and improve visibility. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments provide a display device with improved visibility.

[0005] The embodiments provide a method for manufacturing a display device.

[0006] The embodiments provide an electronic device including a display device.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region; a polarizing layer located in the first region and on the display panel; and a bending protective layer located in the bent region and including an end portion in direct contact with the polarizing layer. In such an embodiment, the upper surface of the end portion extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is bent.

[0008] In one embodiment, the upper surface of one end of the bent protective layer may include a first convex portion and a concave portion. In such an embodiment, the concave portion may define a path through which air bubbles are discharged.

[0009] In an embodiment, the longest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first convex portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions can be greater than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer in a third direction.

[0010] In an embodiment, the shortest distance in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the recessed portion can be equal to or less than the shortest distance in a third direction between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer.

[0011] In an embodiment, in a plan view, the bending protective layer may overlap with a portion of the first region, a portion of the second region, and the bending region.

[0012] A method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: forming a display panel including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region; forming a polarizing layer located in the first region and on the display panel; and forming a bending protective layer located in the bent region and including an end portion in direct contact with the polarizing layer. In such an embodiment, the upper surface of the end portion extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is bent.

[0013] In one embodiment, the upper surface of one end of the bent protective layer may include a first convex portion and a concave portion. In such an embodiment, the concave portion may define a path through which air bubbles are discharged.

[0014] In an embodiment, the method may further include: forming a first adhesive layer on the display panel after the formation of the display panel and before the formation of the polarizing layer; and forming a first protective film on the polarizing layer to protect the polarizing layer after the formation of the polarizing layer and before the formation of the bending protective layer.

[0015] In an embodiment, during the formation of the bending protective layer, the material used to form the bending protective layer can be applied point-by-point along multiple application lines in an application area extending from a portion of the first region adjacent to the polarizing layer and the first protective film to a portion of the second region. The multiple application lines are arranged in a first direction and extend in a second direction respectively.

[0016] In an embodiment, during the formation of the bending protective layer, the first application interval of the first application line closest to the polarizing layer among the multiple application lines can be greater than the second application interval of the remaining application lines among the multiple application lines.

[0017] In an embodiment, during the formation of the bending protective layer, the application direction of the odd-numbered application lines among the multiple application lines may be opposite to the application direction of the even-numbered application lines among the multiple application lines.

[0018] In an embodiment, in a plan view, the bending protective layer may include an overlapping region that overlaps with the polarizing layer and the first protective film. In such an embodiment, the overlapping region of the bending protective layer may include a second convex portion that protrudes in a direction opposite to the first direction, and a linear portion among two adjacent second convex portions in the second direction.

[0019] In an embodiment, the longest distance in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first protrusion can be equal to or greater than the shortest distance in a third direction between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first protective film.

[0020] In an embodiment, the shortest distance in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the recessed portion can be equal to or less than the shortest distance in a third direction between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer.

[0021] In an embodiment, after the formation of the bending protective layer, the method may further include: removing the first protective film; after the removal of the first protective film, forming a second adhesive layer on the polarizing layer; and forming a second protective film on the second adhesive layer to protect the second adhesive layer.

[0022] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a display device; and a processor for controlling the display device. In such an embodiment, the display device includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region; a polarizing layer located in the first region and on the display panel; and a bending protective layer located in the bent region and including an end portion in direct contact with the polarizing layer. In such an embodiment, the upper surface of the end portion extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is bent.

[0023] In one embodiment, the upper surface of one end of the bent protective layer may include a first convex portion and a concave portion. In such an embodiment, the concave portion may define a path through which air bubbles are discharged.

[0024] In an embodiment, the longest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first convex portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions can be greater than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer in a third direction.

[0025] In an embodiment, the shortest distance in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the recessed portion can be equal to or less than the shortest distance in a third direction between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer.

[0026] In an embodiment, in a plan view, the bending protective layer may overlap with a portion of the first region, a portion of the second region, and the bending region.

[0027] A display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a display panel and a polarizing layer and a bending protective layer located on the display panel. In such an embodiment, the bending protective layer may include an end in direct contact with the polarizing layer, and the upper surface of the end may be curved. In such an embodiment, the curved upper surface of the end may include a convex portion and a concave portion, and the concave portion may define a path for venting air bubbles. Accordingly, when a second adhesive layer is formed on the polarizing layer and the bending protective layer, the generation of air bubbles on the polarizing layer can be substantially suppressed or effectively prevented. As a result, the visibility of the display device can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The illustrative, non-limiting embodiments will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a plan view showing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken by line I-I'.

[0031] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken from line II-II'.

[0032] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken from line III-III'.

[0033] Figures 5 to 11 This is a view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an electronic device according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0036] 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 thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals throughout refer to the same elements.

[0037] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, the element may be directly on that other element, or an intermediary element may exist between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there is no intermediary element.

[0038] 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 parts, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or part from another. Therefore, the first element, component, area, layer, or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or part without departing from the teachings herein.

[0039] 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, a reference to an element “a” in the claims immediately following a reference to an element “the” includes one element and a plurality of such elements. For example, “element” has the same meaning as “at least one element” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” should not 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. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” or “containing” and / or “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0040] Furthermore, relative terms such as “below” or “bottom” and “above” or “top” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device. For example, if the device in one of the drawings is flipped, then the element described as being “below” the other element will be oriented “above” the other element. Thus, depending on the specific orientation of the drawing, the term “below” can encompass both “below” and “above” orientations. Similarly, if the device in one of the drawings is flipped, then the element described as being “below” or “under” the other element will be oriented “above” the other element. Thus, the term “below” or “under” can encompass both “above” and “below” orientations.

[0041] 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 commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and unless expressly defined herein, these terms shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0042] In this document, embodiments are described with reference to schematic cross-sectional views illustrating idealized embodiments. Therefore, variations in the illustrated shapes due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Consequently, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the areas shown in the figures, but should include deviations in shape, for example, due to manufacturing processes. For instance, areas shown or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, sharp corners shown may be rounded. Therefore, the areas shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to show precise shapes of the areas and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0043] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals / characters are used for the same parts, and any repeated detailed descriptions of the same parts will be omitted or simplified.

[0044] In this specification, a plane may be defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. For example, the second direction DR2 may be perpendicular to the first direction DR1. Furthermore, a third direction DR3 may be the normal direction of the plane. That is, the third direction DR3 may be perpendicular to the plane formed by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a plan view showing a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken by line I-I'. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken from line II-II'. Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the embodiment taken from line III-III'.

[0046] refer to Figures 1 to 4 The display device 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may include a display panel 200, a polarizing layer 300, a bending protective layer 400, a driving circuit chip 520, and a printed circuit board 540.

[0047] The display panel 200 can generate an image. The display panel 200 may include multiple pixels for generating the image. Light emitted by each pixel can be combined to generate an image. The display panel 200 can provide the generated image in a direction toward the upper surface 201.

[0048] The display panel 200 may include a first region 1A, a second region 2A, and a bent region BA. The second region 2A may be located to one side of the first region 1A and may be spaced apart from the first region 1A in a first direction DR1. In an embodiment, for example, the first region 1A may be a display area for displaying an image, and the second region 2A may be a non-display area.

[0049] The bending region BA can be located between the first region 1A and the second region 2A. The bending region BA can be bent along a bending axis extending in the second direction DR2, which intersects the first direction DR1.

[0050] In an embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the display panel 200 may include a substrate 210, a transistor TR, a light-emitting element 250, and an encapsulation layer 260.

[0051] The transistor TR may include an active layer 220, a gate electrode 230, a source electrode 241, and a drain electrode 242. The light-emitting element 250 may include a pixel electrode 251, a light-emitting layer 252, and a common electrode 253. The encapsulation layer 260 may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 261, an organic encapsulation layer 262, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 263.

[0052] The substrate 210 may be a flexible and insulating substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate 210 may be a transparent resin substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate 210 may be a polyimide (PI) substrate. In such an embodiment, the substrate 210 may have a structure in which one or more polyimide layers and one or more barrier layers are alternately stacked.

[0053] The active layer 220 may be located on the substrate 210. The active layer 220 may include oxide semiconductors, silicon semiconductors, or organic semiconductors. In embodiments, for example, the oxide semiconductor may include at least one oxide selected from one or more materials selected from indium (In), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), zirconium (Zr), vanadium (V), hafnium (Hf), cadmium (Cd), germanium (Ge), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), and zinc (Zn). The silicon semiconductor may include amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon. The active layer 220 may include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region located between the source and drain regions.

[0054] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, a buffer layer may be located between the substrate 210 and the active layer 220. The buffer layer prevents impurities from diffusing from the substrate 210 to the active layer 220. The buffer layer may comprise an inorganic insulating material such as a silicon compound or a metal oxide. Examples of inorganic insulating materials may include silicon oxide (SiO₂). x Silicon nitride (SiN) x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO) x N y ), silicon dioxide (SiO2) x C y Silicon carbonitride (SiC) x N y ), aluminum oxide (AlO) x Aluminum nitride (AlN) x ), tantalum oxide (TaO) x ), hafnium oxide (HfO) x Zirconium oxide (ZrO) x ) and / or titanium dioxide (TiO2) x These can be used individually or in combination with each other. Buffer layers can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including multiple insulating layers.

[0055] A first insulating layer 211 may be located on the active layer 220 and the substrate 210. The first insulating layer 211 may cover the active layer 220 on the substrate 210. The first insulating layer 211 may insulate the channel region of the active layer 220 from the gate electrode 230 located on the first insulating layer 211. In an embodiment, for example, the first insulating layer 211 may include an inorganic insulating material.

[0056] The gate electrode 230 may be located on the first insulating layer 211. The gate electrode 230 may overlap with the channel region of the active layer 220. The gate electrode 230 may include a conductive material such as a metal, alloy, conductive metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, or transparent conductive material. Examples of conductive materials may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), nickel (Ni), titanium (Ti), palladium (Pd), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), tantalum (Ta), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), scandium (Sc), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), alloys containing aluminum, alloys containing silver, alloys containing copper, alloys containing molybdenum, and aluminum nitride (AlN). x ), Tungsten nitride (WN) x Titanium nitride (TiN) x ), Chromium nitride (CrN) x ), Tantalum nitride (TaN) x ), SrRuO x ), zinc oxide (ZnO) xIndium tin oxide (ITO), tin oxide (SnO) x Indium oxide (InO) x Gallium oxide (GaO) x (e.g., indium zinc oxide (IZO)). These can be used alone or in combination with each other. The gate electrode 230 can have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure including multiple conductive layers.

[0057] The second insulating layer 212 may be located on the gate electrode 230 and the first insulating layer 211. The second insulating layer 212 may completely cover the gate electrode 230 on the first insulating layer 211. The second insulating layer 212 may include an inorganic insulating material. The second insulating layer 212 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure including multiple insulating layers.

[0058] Source electrode 241 and drain electrode 242 may be located on the second insulating layer 212. Source electrode 241 and drain electrode 242 may be connected to the source region and drain region of the active layer 220, respectively. Each of source electrode 241 and drain electrode 242 may include a conductive material. Each of source electrode 241 and drain electrode 242 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure including multiple conductive layers. Accordingly, a transistor TR including active layer 220, gate electrode 230, source electrode 241 and drain electrode 242 may be formed.

[0059] The third insulating layer 213 may be located on the source electrode 241, the drain electrode 242, and the second insulating layer 212. The third insulating layer 213 may include an organic insulating material. Examples of organic insulating materials may include photoresists, polyacrylic resins, polyimide resins, polyamide resins, siloxane resins, acrylic resins, and / or epoxy resins. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. The third insulating layer 213 may have a multilayer structure comprising one or more organic insulating layers and one or more inorganic insulating layers.

[0060] Pixel electrode 251 may be located on the third insulating layer 213. Pixel electrode 251 may be connected to source electrode 241 or drain electrode 242. Pixel electrode 251 may include a conductive material. Pixel electrode 251 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure including multiple conductive layers.

[0061] A fourth insulating layer 214 may be located on the pixel electrode 251 and the third insulating layer 213. The fourth insulating layer 214 may have a pixel opening. The fourth insulating layer 214 may cover the peripheral portion of the pixel electrode 251, and the pixel opening exposes the central portion of the pixel electrode 251. The fourth insulating layer 214 may include an organic insulating material.

[0062] The light-emitting layer 252 may be located on the pixel electrode 251. The light-emitting layer 252 may be located within the pixel opening of the fourth insulating layer 214. In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer 252 may extend continuously across multiple pixels. In another embodiment, the light-emitting layer 252 may be separated from the light-emitting layers 252 of adjacent pixels. In another embodiment, the light-emitting layer 252 may comprise an organic light-emitting material or quantum dots.

[0063] The common electrode 253 may be located on the light-emitting layer 252 and the fourth insulating layer 214. The common electrode 253 may include a conductive material. The common electrode 253 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure including multiple conductive layers. Accordingly, a light-emitting element 250 including the pixel electrode 251, the light-emitting layer 252 and the common electrode 253 may be formed.

[0064] The encapsulation layer 260 may be located on the common electrode 253. The encapsulation layer 260 may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer 260 may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 261 located on the common electrode 253, an organic encapsulation layer 262 located on the first inorganic encapsulation layer 261, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 263 located on the organic encapsulation layer 262.

[0065] The driving circuit chip 520 can be located in the second region 2A, on the display panel 200. The printed circuit board 540 can be located at the end of the second region 2A (e.g., the end of the second region 2A in the first direction DR1). That is, the printed circuit board 540 can be spaced apart from the driving circuit chip 520 in the first direction DR1. In one embodiment, the driving circuit chip 520 can be located on the printed circuit board 540. In another embodiment, the printed circuit board 540 can be a flexible printed circuit board.

[0066] The driver circuit chip 520 and the printed circuit board 540 can provide drive signals to the display panel 200. Drive signals can refer to various signals that drive the display panel 200, such as drive voltage, gate signal, or data signal.

[0067] The polarizing layer 300 may be located in the first region 1A on the display panel 200. The polarizing layer 300 may include a retarder and a polarizer. The polarizing layer 300 may transmit only light vibrating in the same direction as the polarization axis of the light emitted from the display panel 200, and may absorb or reflect light vibrating in other directions. Furthermore, the polarizing layer 300 may reduce external light reflection from the display device 100. Accordingly, the visibility of the display device 100 may be improved.

[0068] like Figure 3As shown, the first adhesive layer 620 may be located between the display panel 200 and the polarizing layer 300. The first adhesive layer 620 can attach the polarizing layer 300 to the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200. In embodiments, for example, the first adhesive layer 620 may include pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), optically clear resin (OCR), or optically clear adhesive (OCA) such as acrylic adhesives, silicone adhesives, urethane adhesives, rubber adhesives, or vinyl ether adhesives.

[0069] A bending protective layer 400 may be located in the bending region BA on the display panel 200. In an embodiment, the bending protective layer 400 may cover the bending region BA on the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200. In an embodiment, the bending protective layer 400 may extend in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 and may be located in a portion of the first region 1A. Furthermore, the bending protective layer 400 may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be located in a portion of the second region 2A. Accordingly, in a plan view (or when viewed in a third direction DR3, which is the thickness direction of the display panel 200 or the substrate 210), the bending protective layer 400 may overlap with the aforementioned portion of the first region 1A, the aforementioned portion of the second region 2A, and the bending region BA. In an embodiment, for example, the bending protective layer 400 may include an acrylic resin or a urethane resin, etc.

[0070] The bend protection layer 400 protects the bend area BA of the display panel 200. In an embodiment, for example, the bend protection layer 400 protects the conductive layer in the bend area BA of the display panel 200. Lines transmitting drive signals to the display panel 200 may be located in the conductive layer. If the bend protection layer 400 is not provided and the bend area BA is bent along a bend axis extending in the second direction DR2, the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 may be subjected to tensile stress and the lower surface of the display panel 200 may be subjected to compressive stress. Accordingly, the lines located in the conductive layer of the display panel 200 may be subjected to tensile stress, which could lead to line breakage.

[0071] In an embodiment, the position of the stress-neutral surface can be adjusted by providing a bending protection layer 400 in the bending region BA and by adjusting the thickness and modulus of the bending protection layer 400. Here, the stress-neutral surface can refer to a plane in which neither tensile nor compressive stress has any effect. In an embodiment, by providing a stress-neutral surface near the conductive layer through the bending protection layer 400, the tensile stress applied to the conductive layer can be minimized, thereby effectively preventing line breakage.

[0072] The bending protective layer 400 may have one end 400a and an opposite end (hereinafter referred to as "the other end") 400b. In an embodiment, one end 400a of the bending protective layer may overlap with the aforementioned portion of the first region 1A in a plan view and may be in direct contact with the polarizing layer 300. The direct contact of one end 400a of the bending protective layer 400 with the polarizing layer 300 prevents moisture penetration between the bending protective layer 400 and the polarizing layer 300.

[0073] In one embodiment, the other end 400b of the bending protective layer 400 may overlap with the aforementioned portion of the second region 2A in a plan view and may be spaced apart from the driving circuit chip 520. That is, the other end 400b of the bending protective layer 400 may not cover the driving circuit chip 520 and the printed circuit board 540. In this case, because the bending protective layer 400 does not overlap with the driving circuit chip 520, the bending protective layer 400 may not hinder the attachment of the driving circuit chip 520 to the display panel 200. In another embodiment, although not shown in the figures, the other end 400b of the bending protective layer 400 may cover at least a portion of the driving circuit chip 520 and / or the printed circuit board 540. In such an embodiment, the other end 400b of the bending protective layer 400 can effectively prevent or substantially reduce the separation of the driving circuit chip 520 and / or the printed circuit board 540 from the display panel 200.

[0074] like Figure 4 As shown, in an embodiment, the upper surface of one end 400a of the bent protective layer 400 extending in the second direction DR2 may be curved. That is, one end 400a of the bent protective layer 400 may include a first convex portion C1 and a concave portion C2.

[0075] In an embodiment, the longest distance D3 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the first convex portion C1 can be greater than the shortest distance D2 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the concave portion C2. In such an embodiment, the concave portion C2 can be used as a path for venting air bubbles. Accordingly, when the second adhesive layer 640 (see...) Figure 11 When formed on the polarizing layer 300 and the bending protective layer 400, bubbles can be substantially suppressed or effectively prevented from forming on the polarizing layer 300 adjacent to the bending protective layer 400. As a result, the visibility of the display device 100 can be improved.

[0076] In this embodiment, the longest distance D3 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the first protrusion C1 can be greater than the shortest distance D1 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface 301 of the polarizing layer 300. This is because when the first protective film 320 is formed on the polarizing layer 300 (see... Figure 7 After forming the bending protective layer 400, the material M of the bending protective layer 400 near the polarizing layer 300 is formed (see...). Figure 6 It may be pulled toward the polarizing layer 300 by surface tension and may be formed on the first protective film 320.

[0077] In this embodiment, the shortest distance D2 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the recessed portion C2 can be equal to or less than the shortest distance D1 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface 301 of the polarizing layer 300. Accordingly, when the second adhesive layer 640 is formed on the polarizing layer 300 and the bending protective layer 400, the generation of bubbles on the polarizing layer 300 adjacent to the bending protective layer 400 can be further suppressed or prevented. As a result, the visibility of the display device 100 can be further improved.

[0078] Figures 5 to 11 This is a view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Each of them can be with Figure 3 Correspondingly, and Figure 9 Can be with Figure 4 Correspondingly. Figure 6 and Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified plan view of region A.

[0079] refer to Figures 5 to 9In an embodiment of the method for manufacturing a display device, a display panel 200 including a first region 1A, a second region 2A, and a bending region BA can be formed, and a first adhesive layer 620, a polarizing layer 300, and a first protective film 320 can be formed in the first region 1A on the display panel 200. After attaching the driving circuit chip 520 and the printed circuit board 540 to the second region 2A of the display panel 200, a bending protective layer 400 can be formed on the display panel 200. In another embodiment, the driving circuit chip 520 and the printed circuit board 540 can be attached to the display panel 200 after the bending protective layer 400 is formed.

[0080] A bending protective layer 400 can be formed in the application area AA on the display panel 200. The application area AA can be wider than the bending area BA. In an embodiment, in a plan view, the application area AA can overlap with a portion of the first area 1A, a portion of the second area 2A, and the bending area BA. For example, the material M forming the bending protective layer 400 can include acrylic resins and urethane resins, etc.

[0081] The bending protective layer 400 can be formed by applying a material M forming the bending protective layer 400 along the application line L in the application area AA. In an embodiment, the application line L can be arranged on a first direction DR1 and can extend on a second direction DR2 respectively. The number of application lines L can vary depending on the size of the display device 100. For example, Figure 6 An embodiment with four application lines L is shown, but this is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, as the display device 100 becomes smaller, the number of application lines L can be reduced, and as the display device 100 becomes larger, the number of application lines L can be increased. Furthermore, the first application line L1 may be the application line closest to the polarizing layer 300 and the first protective film 320 among the application lines L. Accordingly, the second application line L2, the third application line L3, and the fourth application line L4 may be sequentially defined from the first application line L1 at intervals along the first direction DR1.

[0082] The material M forming the bending protective layer 400 can be applied in points along the application line L. In an embodiment, the first application interval I1 in the first application line L1 closest to the polarizing layer 300 and the first protective film 320 can be greater than the second application interval I2 in the second application line L2, the third application line L3, and the fourth application line L4. That is, the number of points in the first application line L1 can be less than the number of points in each of the second application line L2, the third application line L3, and the fourth application line L4. In an embodiment, for example, if the number of points in the first application line L1 is 50, the number of points in each of the second application line L2, the third application line L3, and the fourth application line L4 can be 100.

[0083] In an embodiment, the application direction of the odd-numbered application lines in the application lines L can be opposite to the application direction of the even-numbered application lines in the application lines L. In an embodiment, in a plan view, points can be applied along the second direction DR2 in the first application line L1 and the third application line L3, and points can be applied along the second application line L2 and the fourth application line L4 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. Accordingly, the material M forming the bending protective layer 400 can be effectively applied.

[0084] As described above, when the bending protective layer 400 is formed by applying a first application interval I1 in the first application line L1 that is larger than the second application interval I2 in the second application line L2, the third application line L3, and the fourth application line L4, some of the material M in the material M forming the bending protective layer 400 that is close to the polarizing layer 300 and the first protective film 320 can be pulled in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 by surface tension. Accordingly, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the bending protective layer 400 can be formed on a portion of the first protective film 320. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, the upper surface of one end 400a of the bending protective layer 400 can be formed to have a curved surface (i.e., bend) or include a bent portion.

[0085] In an embodiment, the aforementioned portion of the bending protective layer 400 may be formed on the first protective film 320. In an embodiment, in a plan view, the aforementioned portion of the bending protective layer 400 may be formed to overlap with the first protective film 320. That is, as Figure 8As shown in the plan view, the overlapping region A, which overlaps with the first protective film 320, can be formed in the bending protective layer 400. In an embodiment, in the plan view, the overlapping region A of the bending protective layer 400 may include a second convex portion C3 protruding in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1 and a linear portion between two adjacent second convex portions C3 in the second direction DR2. The second convex portion C3 and the linear portion may respectively overlap with... Figure 9 The first convex portion C1 and the concave portion C2 shown correspond to each other. That is, in the plan view, the linear portion can be used as a path for discharging bubbles in the first direction DR1, i.e., the path through which bubbles are discharging in the first direction DR1.

[0086] like Figure 9 As shown, one end 400a of the bending protective layer 400 may have a first convex portion C1 and a concave portion C2. In an embodiment, the longest distance D3 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the first convex portion C1 may be equal to or greater than the shortest distance D4 in the third direction DR3 between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface 321 of the first protective film 320. This is because, after the bending protective layer 400 is formed on the first protective film 320 by surface tension, at least a portion of the overlapping area A of the bending protective layer 400 may also be removed at the same time as the first protective film 320 is removed.

[0087] In an embodiment, the shortest distance D2 in the third direction between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface of the recessed portion C2 can be equal to or less than the shortest distance D1 in the third direction between the upper surface 201 of the display panel 200 and the upper surface 301 of the polarizing layer 300.

[0088] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 After the bending protective layer 400 is formed, the first protective film 320 can be removed. When the first protective film 320 is removed, the portion of the bending protective layer 400 located on the first protective film 320 can also be removed. A second adhesive layer 640 can be formed on the polarizing layer 300 from which the first protective film 320 has been removed. In an embodiment, the second adhesive layer 640 can be formed on both the polarizing layer 300 and the bending protective layer 400.

[0089] In this embodiment, the second adhesive layer 640 may be formed using a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), an optically transparent resin (OCR), or an optically transparent adhesive (OCA) such as an acrylic adhesive, a silicone adhesive, a urethane adhesive, a rubber adhesive, or a vinyl ether adhesive. A second protective film 660 protecting the second adhesive layer 640 may be formed on the second adhesive layer 640.

[0090] The display device 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various electronic devices. Electronic device 10 according to an embodiment (see also...) Figure 12 The device may include the aforementioned display device 100, and in addition to the display device 100, the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment (see [link to embodiment]) may also include the electronic device 10. Figure 12 It may further include modules or devices with other additional functions.

[0091] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0092] refer to Figure 12 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.

[0093] Processor 12 can control display device 100. Processor 12 may include at least one selected from central processing unit (CPU), application processor (AP), graphics processing unit (GPU), communication processor (CP), image signal processor (ISP), and controller.

[0094] The memory 13 can store data information for the operation of the processor 12 or the display module 11. When the processor 12 executes the application program stored in the memory 13, image data signals and / or input control signals can be transmitted to the display module 11, and the display module 11 can process the received signals and output image information through the display screen.

[0095] The power module 14 may include a power supply module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power for the operation of the electronic device 10.

[0096] At least one of the components of the electronic device 10 described above may be included in the display device according to the above embodiment (e.g., Figure 1 The display device 100 is included in the display device 100. Furthermore, in terms of functionality, some of the modules described above may be included in the display device 100, while others may be provided separately from the display device 100. In embodiments, for example, the display device 100 may include a display module 11, and the processor 12, memory 13, and power module 14 may be provided as other devices within the electronic device 10 besides the display device 100.

[0097] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an electronic device according to various embodiments.

[0098] refer to Figure 13The application uses a display device according to the embodiment (e.g., Figure 1 The various electronic devices 10 of the display device 100 may include not only image display electronic devices such as smartphones 10_1a, tablet PCs 10_1b, laptop computers 10_1c, televisions (TVs) 10_1d and desktop monitors 10_1e, but also wearable electronic devices including display modules such as smart glasses 10_2a, head-mounted displays 10_2b and smartwatches 10_2c, or automotive electronic devices including display modules such as dashboards, center consoles, interior mirror displays and central information displays (CIDs) located on dashboards of automobiles 10_3, etc.

[0099] The embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to display devices and electronic devices including display devices. For example, the embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to high-resolution smartphones, mobile phones, smart tablets, smartwatches, tablet PCs, vehicle navigation systems, televisions, computer monitors, or laptop computers, etc.

[0100] 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 thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0101] 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 and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The display panel includes a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region. A polarizing layer is located in the first region on the display panel; as well as A bending protective layer, located in the bending region and including one end that is in direct contact with the polarizing layer. The upper surface of one end extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is curved.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The upper surface of one end of the bent protective layer includes a first convex portion and a concave portion, and The concave portion defines the path through which the air bubbles are discharged.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The longest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first convex portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions is greater than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer in the third direction.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the recessed portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions is equal to or less than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer in that third direction.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the plan view, the bending protective layer overlaps with a portion of the first region, a portion of the second region, and the bending region.

6. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: A display panel is formed, the display panel including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region in a first direction, and a bent region located between the first region and the second region; A polarizing layer is formed, the polarizing layer being located in the first region and on the display panel; as well as A bending protective layer is formed, the bending protective layer being located in the bending region and including an end that is in direct contact with the polarizing layer. The upper surface of one end extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is curved.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The upper surface of one end of the bent protective layer includes a first convex portion and a concave portion, and The concave portion defines the path through which the air bubbles are discharged.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: After the formation of the display panel and before the formation of the polarizing layer, a first adhesive layer is formed on the display panel; as well as After the formation of the polarizing layer and before the formation of the bending protective layer, a first protective film is formed on the polarizing layer to protect the polarizing layer.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In the formation of the bending protective layer, The material used to form the bending protective layer is applied point-by-point along multiple application lines in an application region extending from the portion of the first region adjacent to the polarizing layer and the first protective film to a portion of the second region. The multiple application lines are arranged in the first direction and extend in the second direction respectively.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, In the formation of the bending protective layer, The first application interval of the first application line closest to the polarizing layer among the plurality of application lines is greater than the second application interval of the remaining application lines among the plurality of application lines.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein, In the formation of the bending protective layer, The application direction of the odd-numbered application lines is opposite to that of the even-numbered application lines.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In the plan view, the bending protective layer includes an overlapping area that overlaps with the polarizing layer and the first protective film, and The overlapping area of ​​the bending protective layer includes a second convex portion that protrudes in a direction opposite to the first direction and a linear portion between two adjacent second convex portions in the second direction.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The longest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first convex portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions is equal to or greater than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the first protective film in that third direction.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the recessed portion in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions is equal to or less than the shortest distance between the upper surface of the display panel and the upper surface of the polarizing layer in that third direction.

15. The method of claim 8, further comprising: After the formation of the bending protective layer Remove the first protective film; After the removal of the first protective film, a second adhesive layer is formed on the polarizing layer; as well as A second protective film is formed on the second adhesive layer to protect the second adhesive layer.

16. An electronic device comprising: The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5; as well as The processor controls the display device.

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