Method and apparatus for manufacturing display devices

Abstract

A method and apparatus for manufacturing a display device are provided. An apparatus for manufacturing a display device includes a first jig having a first working surface, a clamping portion spaced apart from the first jig and configured to clamp a guide film, a second jig having a second working surface disposed to face the first working surface of the first jig and configured to seat a cover member having a curved edge, and a sensing portion disposed on the clamping portion and configured to measure a force applied to the guide film by the clamping portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0036623, filed on March 21, 2025, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] One or more embodiments relate to methods and apparatus for manufacturing display devices. Background Technology

[0004] Mobile electronic devices are widely used. In recent years, in addition to small electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablet PCs have been widely used as mobile electronic devices.

[0005] Such mobile electronic devices include display devices for supporting various functions, such as providing visual information to users, such as images or videos. Recently, as other components used to drive the display device have been miniaturized, the proportion of display devices in electronic devices has been gradually increasing. Furthermore, structures that can be bent from a flat state to a specific angle are under development. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Because display devices are developed in various forms, defects often occur during their manufacturing process. Specifically, defects may occur when the entire edge of the display device is bent, particularly when the display panel and the cover member are attached to each other, and the edges of the display panel and the cover member may separate from each other. One or more embodiments include methods and apparatus for manufacturing a display device capable of precise joining at the bent portions of the cover member.

[0007] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the embodiments presented in this disclosure.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments, an apparatus for manufacturing a display device includes: a first clamp having a first working surface; a clamping portion spaced apart from the first clamp and configured to clamp a guide film; a second clamp having a second working surface facing the first working surface of the first clamp and configured to accommodate a cover member having a curved edge; and a sensing portion disposed on the clamping portion and configured to measure a force applied to the guide film by the clamping portion.

[0009] In one embodiment, the clamping portion may include: a clamping member configured to selectively clamp the guide film; a first clamping member drive unit connected to the clamping member and configured to cause the clamping member to perform linear motion; a second clamping member drive unit connected to the first clamping member drive unit and configured to adjust the height of the clamping member; and a third clamping member drive unit connected to the second clamping member drive unit and configured to operate the clamping member.

[0010] In one embodiment, the device may further include a guide configured to surround the periphery of the second clamp and selectively contact the guide membrane.

[0011] In one embodiment, the portion of the guide that selectively contacts the guide film may be rounded.

[0012] In one embodiment, the guide may include: a guide frame; a first guide roller rotatably disposed on the guide frame; and a second guide roller disposed in the longitudinal direction of the first guide roller and the diagonal direction of the guide frame, and rotatably disposed on the guide frame.

[0013] In one embodiment, the device may further include a guide drive unit configured to connect the guide to the second clamp and to cause the guide to perform lifting movements.

[0014] In one embodiment, the device may further include a stop portion spaced apart from the first clamp and selectively contacting the guide.

[0015] In one embodiment, the device may further include: a clamp drive unit connected to at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp, and configured to cause the at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp to perform a linear motion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the device may further include a heating element disposed in at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments, an apparatus for manufacturing a display device includes: a first clamp capable of linear motion and having a first working surface; a clamping portion spaced apart from the first clamp and configured to clamp a guide film, on which a panel member is disposed; a second clamp having a second working surface configured to face the first working surface of the first clamp and configured to place a cover member having a curved edge, the second clamp being capable of linear motion to bind the cover member to the panel member together with the first clamp; and a guide configured to surround the periphery of the second clamp and selectively contact the guide film, wherein the guide is configured to contact the guide film before the cover member contacts the panel member, such that the shape of the panel member is changed.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments, a method for manufacturing a display device includes: providing a cover member on a second clamp and securing a guide film to a clamping portion and a first clamp, the cover member having a curved entire edge, the guide film having a panel member and an adhesive layer disposed thereon; contacting a guide member with the guide film such that the guide film having the panel member and the adhesive layer disposed thereon deforms to correspond to a surface of the cover member; adjusting forces applied to at least two portions of the guide film to be equal to a preset force; and attaching the cover member to the panel member by causing at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp to perform a linear movement.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method may further include: contacting the guide with the stop portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method may further include bending a portion of the guide film, a portion of the panel member, and a portion of the adhesive layer by causing the first clamp to perform a linear motion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the method may further include measuring the force pulling the guide membrane at each of the at least two portions of the guide membrane.

[0022] In one embodiment, the method may further include: enclosing the space where the first clamp and the second clamp are disposed using a first chamber and a second chamber.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method may further include: venting gas inside the space formed by the first chamber and the second chamber to the outside.

[0024] In one embodiment, the method may further include aligning the position of the panel member relative to the covering member.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first clamp can move together with the panel component.

[0026] In one embodiment, the portion of the guide that contacts the guide film may be rounded.

[0027] In one embodiment, the method may further include heating at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0028] Other aspects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood from the accompanying drawings, the appended claims, and the detailed description.

[0029] These general and specific aspects can be practiced using systems, methods, computer programs, or any combination thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the clamping part in an apparatus used to manufacture a display device.

[0033] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The front view of the clamping part shown in the example.

[0034] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The example guide is shown in perspective.

[0035] Figure 5A It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0036] Figure 5B It is an illustrative example. Figure 5A The diagram shows a front view of the guide film, display panel, and adhesive layer.

[0037] Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is an illustrative example. Figure 5B The diagram shows a planar view of the guiding membrane.

[0038] Figure 7It is an illustrative example. Figure 5B The diagram shows a plan view of the display panel and adhesive layer.

[0039] Figure 8 It is an illustrative example. Figure 5A A plan view illustrating the positions of the guide membrane and the covering component.

[0040] Figure 9 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0041] Figure 10 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0042] Figure 11A It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0043] Figure 11B It is an illustrative example. Figure 11A A perspective view of a portion of the guide, guide film, display panel, and adhesive layer illustrated in the image.

[0044] Figure 11C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0045] Figure 12A , Figure 12B and Figure 12C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0046] Figure 13 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0047] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0049] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0050] Figure 17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0051] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to one embodiment.

[0052] Figure 19 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to one embodiment.

[0053] Figure 20A , Figure 20B and Figure 20C It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the display device illustrated in the image.

[0054] Figure 21 It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the display area of ​​the display panel illustrated in the image.

[0055] Figure 22 It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 The circuit diagram of the sub-pixel circuit of the display panel is shown in the example.

[0056] Figure 23 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0057] Figure 24 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Figure 25 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0059] Figure 26 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. In this respect, present embodiments may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Accordingly, embodiments are described below with reference only to the drawings to illustrate aspects of this specification. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0061] Because this specification allows for various modifications and numerous embodiments, certain embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the written description. The effects and features of this disclosure, as well as methods of implementing them, will be illustrated by referring to the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented in various forms.

[0062] In the following description, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0063] In the following embodiments, the terms "first," "second," etc., are not used in a limiting sense and are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0064] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form used in this article is intended to include the plural form as well.

[0065] It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein specify the presence of the stated features or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or elements.

[0066] It will be further understood that when a layer, zone, or element is referred to as being "on" another layer, zone, or element, it can be directly on the other layer, zone, or element, but there can also be an intermediary layer, zone, or element between them.

[0067] Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the dimensions of the elements in the drawings may be enlarged or reduced. For example, since the dimensions and thicknesses of the elements in the drawings are arbitrarily illustrated for ease of explanation, this disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0068] The x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0069] When an embodiment is implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described herein. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their presentation.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 2 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the clamping part in an apparatus used to manufacture a display device.

[0071] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device may include a base portion 100, an alignment portion 200, a chamber portion 400, a first clamp portion 500, a second clamp portion 600, a clamping portion 700, a guide portion 800, a stopper portion 910, and a vision portion 920.

[0072] The base portion 100 may include a first support member 110, a second support member 120, a drive portion 130, and a pressure control portion 140. The first support member 110 may be connected to the drive portion 130 and can perform linear motion according to the operation of the drive portion 130. The second support member 120 may be fixed to the outside and can support the drive portion 130. The drive portion 130 may be connected to the first support member 110 and the second support member 120, and can raise and lower the first support member 110. The drive portion 130 may have various forms. For example, the drive portion 130 may include a pneumatic cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder. In one embodiment, the drive portion 130 may include a motor, a ball screw connected to the motor, and a moving block disposed on the ball screw and performing linear motion when the ball screw rotates. In one embodiment, the drive portion 130 may include a linear motor. However, the drive portion 130 is not limited to the above-described drive portion and may include any structure that connects the first support member 110 and the second support member 120 to each other and enables the first support member 110 to perform linear motion. The pressure control unit 140 can be connected to the chamber 400 and can control the pressure of the internal space formed by the chamber 400. The pressure control unit 140 may include a pipe connected to the chamber 400 and a pump disposed in the pipe.

[0073] Alignment portion 200 may be disposed on second support member 120 and is rotatable in at least two directions. Alignment portion 200 may include first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220 spaced apart from each other. Additionally, alignment portion 200 may include first alignment drive portion 230 disposed between first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220 and having one end connected to one of the first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220 and the other end connected to the other of the first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220. Multiple first alignment drive portions 230 may be provided. Multiple first alignment drive portions 230 may be disposed at an off-center portion away from the center of one of the first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220. In one embodiment, when each of the first alignment stage 210 and second alignment stage 220 has a polygonal shape, each of the first alignment drive portions 230 may be disposed near a vertex of each polygonal shape. In one embodiment, when each of the first alignment stage 210 and the second alignment stage 220 has a circular or elliptical shape, each of the first alignment drive units 230 may be disposed on the edge portion of each of the first alignment stage 210 and the second alignment stage 220. Depending on the operation of the first alignment drive unit 230, one of the first alignment stage 210 and the second alignment stage 220 may rotate about the other of the first alignment stage 210 and the second alignment stage 220. For ease of explanation, the case where the second alignment stage 220 rotates about the first alignment stage 210 is described in detail. The alignment unit 200 may include a first connecting portion 240 that connects the first alignment stage 210 to the second alignment stage 220, such that the second alignment stage 220 can rotate about the first alignment stage 210.

[0074] The chamber 400 may include a first chamber 410, a second chamber 420, and a sealing portion 430. The first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 may be separate from each other. In this case, the first chamber 410 may be fixed to the second support member 120, and the second chamber 420 may be fixed to the first support member 110. The first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 may be connected to each other. When the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 are connected to each other, a space may be formed therein. The sealing portion 430 may be disposed in either the first chamber 410 or the second chamber 420, and when the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 are connected to each other, the sealing portion 430 may prevent ambient air from flowing into the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420. Although Figure 1The portion at the junction of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 is illustrated as flat, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, although not illustrated, the portion at the junction of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420 may include an uneven portion. In this case, at least one sealing portion 430 may be provided in at least a portion of the uneven portion.

[0075] The first clamping part 500 may include a first clamp 510, a first movable plate 520, a first clamping drive part 530, and a first heating part 540. The first clamp 510 may include a core 511 and a pad 512. The core 511 may include a rigid material such as metal. The pad 512 may include a flexible and elastic material such as silicone, rubber, and / or urethane. The main outer surface of the pad 512 of the first clamp 510 may be referred to as the first working surface. The first movable plate 520 may be connected to the first clamp 510 and may support the first clamp 510. The first movable plate 520 may be connected to the core 511. The first clamping drive part 530 may be disposed in the alignment part 200 and connected to the first movable plate 520. The first clamping drive part 530 may raise and lower the first movable plate 520 and the first clamp 510. The first clamping drive part 530 may have various forms. For example, the first clamping drive part 530 may include a cylinder. In one embodiment, the first clamp drive unit 530 may include a servo motor, a rotatable ball screw connected to the servo motor, and a motion block into which the ball screw is inserted and performs linear motion when the ball screw rotates. In this case, the motion block may be disposed on the ball screw and the first moving plate 520. In one embodiment, the first clamp drive unit 530 may also include a linear motor. However, the first clamp drive unit 530 is not limited to those described above and may include any means and structure disposed in the alignment part 200 and performing linear motion on the first moving plate 520. For ease of explanation, the case where the first clamp drive unit 530 includes a servo motor, a ball screw, and a motion block will be described in detail. A first heating part 540 may be disposed inside the core part 511. The first heating part 540 may include a heater, and the first heating part 540 may control the surface temperature of the first clamp 510 by applying heat to the core part 511. At least one first heating part 540 may be disposed in the core part 511.

[0076] The second clamping part 600 may include a second clamp 610, a second movable plate 620, a second clamping drive part 630, and a second heating part 640. The second clamp 610 may include a mounting groove for a cover window CW of the cover member (see example...). Figure 5AThe cover member is placed in the mounting groove, and its entire edge is curved. For example, the edge portion of the mounting groove may be curved in the Z direction and completely enclose the cover member. The main surface of the second clamp 610 may be referred to as the second working surface. As shown, the second working surface of the second clamp 610 may be configured to face the first working surface of the first clamp 510. Although not illustrated, an adhesive layer or suction holes may be provided in the mounting groove of the second clamp 610 to secure the cover window CW. In one embodiment, an electrostatic chuck may be provided in the mounting groove of the second clamp 610. A second moving plate 620 may be connected to the second clamp 610 and may support the second clamp 610. A second clamp drive 630 may be connected to the second moving plate 620 and may cause the second moving plate 620 and the second clamp 610 to perform linear movement. In this case, the shape of the second clamp drive 630 may be the same as or similar to the shape of the first clamp drive 530. For ease of explanation, the case where the second clamp drive 630 is a cylinder will be described in detail. At least one second heating element 640 may be disposed inside the second clamp 610. When multiple second heating elements 640 are provided, the multiple second heating elements 640 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0077] Multiple clamping portions 700 may be provided. Some of the multiple clamping portions 700 may be disposed and secured to the alignment portion 200 for connection to the alignment portion 200. The multiple clamping portions 700 may clamp the guide film GF in at least two portions. In the following, the details are described in detail as follows: Figure 2 As shown, multiple clamping portions 700 clamp the guide film GF at eight locations. For example, the clamping portions 700 may include a first clamping portion 700a, a second clamping portion 700b, a third clamping portion 700c, a fourth clamping portion 700d, a fifth clamping portion 700e, a sixth clamping portion 700f, a seventh clamping portion 700g, and an eighth clamping portion 700h spaced apart from each other. In this case, the second clamping portion 700b, the fourth clamping portion 700d, the sixth clamping portion 700f, and the eighth clamping portion 700h may be located at the corners of the guide portion 800, which has a rectangular planar shape. The first clamping portions 700a to the eighth clamping portions 700h can flatten the entire guide film GF by clamping it from different directions. Additionally, the first clamping portions 700a to the eighth clamping portions 700h can clamp and fix the guide film GF through suction holes provided at the portions of the first clamping portions 700a to the eighth clamping portions 700h that contact each other with the guide film GF. In some embodiments, the clamping portion 700 can be spaced apart from the first clamp 510. (See reference) Figures 3A to 3C The structure of the clamping part 700 is described in detail.

[0078] The guide portion 800 may include a guide member 810 and a guide member drive portion 820. The guide member 810 may have an annular shape. In this case, the second clamp 610 can be inserted into the guide member 810. Furthermore, the guide member 810 may have other planar shapes. For example, the planar shape of the guide member 810 may be polygonal. In one embodiment, the guide member 810 may have a polygonal shape with rounded corners. In one embodiment, the planar shape of the guide member 810 may be circular or elliptical. However, the planar shape of the guide member 810 is not limited to the planar shapes described above and may be the same as or similar to the shape of the main display area of ​​the display panel described below. The guide member drive portion 820 can connect the guide member 810 and the second movable plate 620 to each other. One end of the guide member drive portion 820 may be fixed to the second movable plate 620, and the other end of the guide member drive portion 820 may be fixed to the guide member 810. The guide member drive portion 820 may include a cylinder. When the guide member drive portion 820 is operated, the position of the guide member 810 may change. For example, the guide 810 can perform linear movement according to the operation of the guide drive 820. In some embodiments, the guide drive 820 can cause the guide 810 to perform lifting movement. In some embodiments, the guide 810 can be configured to surround the periphery of the second clamp 610 and selectively contact the guide membrane GF.

[0079] The stopper portion 910 may include a stopper support 912 connected to the first chamber 410 and a stopper 911 disposed on the stopper support 912. In this case, the stopper 911 may be disposed on the stopper support 912 in a height-adjustable manner. Accordingly, the final position of the guide 810 may be freely restricted. In some embodiments, the stopper portion 910 may be spaced apart from the first clamp 510 and selectively contact the guide 810.

[0080] The vision unit 920 can capture images of the interior of the chamber 400. In this case, because the vision unit 920 can move linearly in one direction, the vision unit 920 can detect the guide film GF and the display panel 10 (see example) at each stage. Figure 5A The positions of the first clamp 510 and the cover window CW.

[0081] Figure 3A It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The front view of the clamping part shown in the example.

[0082] refer to Figure 3AThe clamping portion 700 may include a first clamping member drive portion 710, a first frame 720, a first clamping member guide 731, a second clamping member guide 732, a second clamping member drive portion 740, a clamping member support 750, a second frame 760, a clamping member 770, a third clamping member drive portion 780, and a sensing portion 790. In another embodiment, the clamping portion 700 may include the first clamping member drive portion 710, the first frame 720, the first clamping member guide 731, the second clamping member guide 732, the second clamping member drive portion 740, the clamping member support 750, the second frame 760, the clamping member 770, and the third clamping member drive portion 780, and the sensing portion 790 may be disposed on the clamping portion 700. In some embodiments, the first clamping member drive portion 710 may be connected to the clamping member 770 and configured to cause the clamping member 770 to perform linear movement. In some embodiments, the second clamping member drive unit 740 may be connected to the first clamping member drive unit 710 and configured to adjust the height of the clamping member 770. In some embodiments, the third clamping member drive unit 780 may be connected to the second clamping member drive unit 740.

[0083] The first clamping member drive unit 710 may include: a first clamping member motor 711; a first motor support 712, which is mounted on the alignment part 200 and the first clamping member motor 711 is connected to the first motor support 712; a first screw 713, which is rotatably mounted on the first motor support 712 and connected to the first clamping member motor 711; and a first moving block 714, which is connected to the first screw 713 for linear movement, and a first frame 720 is connected to the first moving block 714.

[0084] The first frame 720 may include a first-1 frame 721 connected to the first moving block 714, a first-2 frame 722 bent from the first-1 frame 721, and a first-3 frame 723 protruding from the first-2 frame 722 and arranged in a similar direction to the first-1 frame 721.

[0085] The first clamping guide 731 can be disposed between the first-second frame 722 and the clamping support 750, and can guide the linear movement of the first-second frame 722. The first clamping guide 731 can be a linear guide.

[0086] The second clamping guide 732 can be disposed between the first-third frame 723 and the second frame 760. When the second frame 760 performs linear movement, the second clamping guide 732 can guide the linear movement of the second frame 760. The second clamping guide 732 can be a linear guide.

[0087] The second clamping member drive unit 740 can cause the second frame 760 to perform linear movement. For example, the second clamping member drive unit 740 may include a cylinder disposed on the first-second frame 722 and the second frame 760. The second clamping member drive unit 740 may be mounted on one surface of the first-second frame 722, and an end of the second clamping member drive unit 740 may be connected to the second frame 760. When the second clamping member drive unit 740 is operated, the second frame 760 can perform a lifting movement.

[0088] The clamping support 750 can connect the clamping part 700 to the alignment part 200. The clamping support 750 can be connected to the alignment part 200 and can form a space therein to provide movement space for the first clamp 510 when the first clamp 510 is raised and lowered.

[0089] The second frame 760 may include a second-1 frame 761 connected to and partially bent by the second clamping drive unit 740, a second-2 frame 762 protruding from the second-1 frame 761, a first pad 763 disposed at the end of the second-1 frame 761, and a fixing block 764 disposed at the second-2 frame 762. The first pad 763 may include an elastic material such as rubber or silicone. Furthermore, although not illustrated, a suction hole may be formed in the first pad 763. The suction hole may be connected to a path inside the second frame 760. This path may be connected to a pump or the like to provide a passage for the movement of gas inside the suction hole.

[0090] The clamping member 770 may be in the form of a toggle clamping member. For example, the clamping member 770 may include a connecting link 771, a drive force transmission part 773, a rotating part 775, and a second pad 776. The connecting link 771 can connect the third clamping member drive part 780 to the drive force transmission part 773. The drive force transmission part 773 may include at least one link. For example, the drive force transmission part 773 may have a structure in which multiple links are connected to each other. At least one of the multiple links can transmit power by performing linear or rotational motion. Furthermore, the drive force transmission part 773 may be connected to the rotating part 775 and can rotate the rotating part 775 when the third clamping member drive part 780 is operated. The rotating part 775 may be partially bent, and the second pad 776 may be disposed at the end of the rotating part 775. The second pad 776 may be configured to face the first pad 763 by rotating according to the rotation of the rotating part 775 in order to clamp or release the clamping of the guide film GF. In some embodiments, the clamping member 770 may selectively clamp the guide membrane GF.

[0091] The third clamping member drive unit 780 can operate the clamping member 770. The third clamping member drive unit 780 may include a cylinder disposed in the second-first frame 761. The third clamping member drive unit 780 can be connected to and can move the connecting rod 771. Specifically, the third clamping member drive unit 780 can be operated when the guide membrane GF is clamped through the first pad 763 and the second pad 776. When the third clamping member drive unit 780 is operated, the connecting rod 771 can rotate the rotating part 775 via the driving force transmission unit 773. For example, when the rotating part 775 is in… Figure 3A When rotated clockwise, the first pad 763 and the second pad 776 can face each other, allowing them to clamp the guide film GF. The method by which the first pad 763 and the second pad 776 release the constraint on the guide film GF can be the opposite of the method described above. That is, when the third clamping member drive unit 780 operates in the opposite direction to the above operation, the rotating unit 775 can rotate in the opposite direction to the above rotation. In this case, as the gap between the first pad 763 and the second pad 776 increases, the constraint on the guide film GF can be released.

[0092] The sensing unit 790 may be disposed in at least one of the third clamping member drive unit 780, the connecting link 771, the second frame 760, and the first frame 720. When the clamping member 770 pulls the guide film GF due to the operation of the first clamping member drive unit 710, the sensing unit 790 may measure the stress (or force) changing in at least one of the third clamping member drive unit 780, the connecting link 771, the second frame 760, and the first frame 720. In some embodiments, the sensing unit 790 may measure the force applied to the guide film GF by the clamping member 700. For example, the sensing unit 790 may include a load sensor.

[0093] Specifically, the first pad 763 and the second pad 776 can pull the guide film GF to maintain the tension of the guide film GF after it has been clamped. The first clamping drive 710 can be operated to move the first frame 720 from its initial position relative to its initial position. Figure 3A The right side moves to the left side. When the first clamping member drive unit 710 operates to pull the guide film GF after the clamping member 770 clamps the guide film GF, the second clamping member drive unit 740 and the third clamping member drive unit 780 may not operate.

[0094] When the first clamping member drive unit 710 operates, it can adjust the force used to pull the guide film GF by changing the position of the clamping member 770. In this case, the value measured by the sensing unit 790 can be changed. It can be determined whether the result measured by the sensing unit 790 is equal to a preset value or whether the result measured by the sensing unit 790 is within a preset range. The preset value or preset range can be determined between the minimum tension required to keep the surface of the guide film GF flat across the entire guide film GF and the maximum tension that will not cause damage to the guide film GF.

[0095] Although not shown, the comparison between the result measured by the sensing unit 790 and the preset value, or the comparison between the result measured by the sensing unit 790 and the preset range, can be performed by a separate control unit (not shown). The control unit can be provided in various forms, such as a circuit board provided in the equipment for manufacturing the display device, or a computer and / or mobile terminal provided outside the equipment for manufacturing the display device.

[0096] When the control unit determines that the value measured by the sensing unit 790 is equal to or within a preset value, the control unit can stop the operation of the first clamping member drive unit 710 and fix the position of the clamping member 770. On the other hand, when the control unit determines that the value measured by the sensing unit 790 is different from or exceeds the preset value, the control unit can control the first clamping member drive unit 710 to change the position of the clamping member 770 so that the value measured by the sensing unit 790 is equal to or within the preset value.

[0097] In this configuration, the control unit can control the position of each clamping member 770 so that the force exerted by each clamping member 770 on the guide film GF is equal to that of the others. At this time, the control unit can execute control so that the force exerted by each clamping member 770 on the guide film GF corresponds to a preset value for each process.

[0098] Therefore, the methods and equipment used to manufacture display devices can make the tension of the guide film GF equal to or within a preset tension range through the above-described process.

[0099] Furthermore, the methods and equipment used to manufacture display devices can accurately determine the tension of the guide film GF by measuring the tension of the guide film GF in real time.

[0100] Methods and apparatus for manufacturing display devices can provide uniform bonding quality between panel components and cover components by keeping the entire surface of the guide film GF flat during the process.

[0101] Methods and apparatus for manufacturing display devices can reduce the lifting of the panel component from the cover component at the curved portion of the cover component after assembly.

[0102] Figure 3B It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The front view of the clamping part shown in the example.

[0103] refer to Figure 3B The clamping part 700 may include a first clamping member drive part 710, a first frame 720, a first clamping member guide 731, a second clamping member guide 732, a second clamping member drive part 740, a clamping member support 750, a second frame 760, a clamping member 770, a third clamping member drive part 780, and a sensing part 790. The first frame 720, the first clamping member guide 731, the second clamping member guide 732, the second clamping member drive part 740, the clamping member support 750, the second frame 760, the clamping member 770, the third clamping member drive part 780, and the sensing part 790 can be referenced... Figure 3A The first frame 720, the first clamping guide 731, the second clamping guide 732, the second clamping drive 740, the clamping support 750, the second frame 760, the clamping member 770, the third clamping drive 780, and the sensing unit 790 described are the same as or similar to each other.

[0104] The first clamping member drive unit 710 may be a cylinder. The first clamping member drive unit 710 may be mounted and fixed to the first movable plate 520. In addition, the first frame 720 may perform linear motion on the first movable plate 520.

[0105] The first frame 720 may include a first-second frame 722 and a first-third frame 723, and the second frame 760 may include a second-first frame 761, a second-second frame 762, a first pad 763, and a fixing block 764. Furthermore, the clamping member 770 may include a connecting rod 771, a driving force transmission part 773, a rotating part 775, and a second pad 776.

[0106] Figure 3C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The front view of the clamping part shown in the example.

[0107] refer to Figure 3C The clamping part 700 may include a first clamping member drive part 710, a first frame 720, a first clamping member guide 731, a second clamping member drive part 740, a clamping member support 750, a second frame 760, a clamping member 770, a third clamping member drive part 780, and a sensing part 790. The first clamping member drive part 710, the first frame 720, the first clamping member guide 731, the clamping member support 750, the second frame 760, the clamping member 770, and the sensing part 790 can be referenced... Figure 3AThe first clamping member drive unit 710, the first frame 720, the first clamping member guide 731, the clamping member support 750, the second frame 760, the clamping member 770 and the sensing unit 790 described are the same or similar.

[0108] The first frame 720 may include a first-1 frame 721, a first-2 frame 722, and a first-3 frame 723, and the second frame 760 may include a second-1 frame 761, a second-2 frame 762, a first pad 763, and a fixing block 764. Furthermore, the clamping member 770 may include a connecting rod 771, a driving force transmission part 773, a rotating part 775, and a second pad 776.

[0109] The second clamping member drive unit 740 may include: a second clamping member motor 741; a second motor support 742, which is mounted on the first-third frame 723 and the second clamping member motor 741 is connected to the second motor support 742; a second screw 743, which is rotatably mounted on the second motor support 742 and connected to the second clamping member motor 741; and a second moving block 744, which is connected to the second screw 743 so that it can move linearly and the second frame 760 is connected to the second moving block 744.

[0110] The third clamping member drive unit 780 may include: a third clamping member motor 781; a third motor support 782, which is mounted on the second-1 frame 761 and the third clamping member motor 781 is connected to the third motor support 782; a third screw 783, which is rotatably mounted on the third motor support 782 and connected to the third clamping member motor 781; and a third moving block 784, which is connected to the third screw 783 so that it can move linearly and a connecting rod 771 is connected to the third moving block 784.

[0111] Although not illustrated, each of the first clamping member drive units 710 to the third clamping member drive units 780 is not limited to those described above, and may include various means and structures for moving the connected components. For example, each of the first clamping member drive units 710 to the third clamping member drive units 780 may have a structure including a cylinder, a linear motor or ball screw, a moving block and a motor.

[0112] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 The example is a perspective view of the guide 810.

[0113] refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B The guide 810 can have various shapes. For example, the guide 810 can have a polygonal ring shape. Figure 4AAs shown, the contact surface 811 of the guide 810 that contacts the guide film can be curved or rounded. In one embodiment, as... Figure 4B As shown, the guide 810 may include a guide frame 812 and a first guide roller 813 and a second guide roller 814 rotatably disposed on the guide frame 812. The first guide roller 813 may have a cylindrical shape, and the second guide roller 814 may have a recessed shape at its central portion. The outer surface of the longitudinal section of the recessed portion of the second guide roller 814 may be curved. In some embodiments, the second guide roller 814 may be disposed in the longitudinal direction of the first guide roller 813 and in the diagonal direction of the guide frame 812.

[0114] Therefore, the guide 810 can reduce damage to the guide membrane when it comes into contact with the guide membrane or when force is applied to the guide membrane after contact with the guide membrane.

[0115] The following section describes in detail the panel components (e.g., Figure 5A The method of combining the display panel 10 in the middle with the covering component.

[0116] Figure 5A It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices. Figure 5B It is an illustrative example. Figure 5A The diagram shows a front view of the guide film, display panel, and adhesive layer. Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is an illustrative example. Figure 5B The diagram shows a planar view of the guiding membrane. Figure 7 It is an illustrative example. Figure 5B The diagram illustrates a plan view of the display panel and adhesive layer. In the following text, [the diagram is used in conjunction with...]. Figure 1 The same reference numerals in the figures indicate reference. Figure 1 The components described.

[0117] refer to Figures 5A to 7 The cover window CW can be set on the second clamp 610, and the display panel 10 can be set on the guide film GF on which the first adhesive layer 20 is provided.

[0118] refer to Figure 6A The guiding membrane GF can include a main region MA and a sub-region SA.

[0119] A subregion SA can be connected to the edge of the primary region MA. A subregion SA can extend from the edge of the primary region MA.

[0120] Multiple sub-regions SA can be provided. For example, sub-regions SA may include a first sub-region SA1 connected to the first edge ed1 of the main region MA, a second sub-region SA2 connected to the second edge ed2 of the main region MA, a third sub-region SA3 connected to the third edge ed3 of the main region MA, and a fourth sub-region SA4 connected to the fourth edge ed4 of the main region MA. Figure 6A As shown, the second edge ed2 can intersect with the first edge ed1, the third edge ed3 can be parallel to the first edge ed1, and the fourth edge ed4 can be parallel to the second edge ed2.

[0121] Multiple subregions SA can be spaced apart from each other. The first subregion SA1 can be spaced apart from the second subregion SA2, the third subregion SA3, and the fourth subregion SA4. The second subregion SA2 can be spaced apart from the first subregion SA1, the third subregion SA3, and the fourth subregion SA4. The third subregion SA3 can be spaced apart from the first subregion SA1, the second subregion SA2, and the fourth subregion SA4. The fourth subregion SA4 can be spaced apart from the first subregion SA1, the second subregion SA2, and the third subregion SA3.

[0122] The main region MA can include the central region MAc, the side regions MAs, and the corner regions CA.

[0123] The center region MAc corresponds to the center of the main region MA. For example... Figure 6A As shown, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the main region MA (e.g., the z direction), the central region MAc can have a rectangular shape.

[0124] Side regions (MAs) can be set between the central region (MAc) and the sub-regions (SA). Multiple side regions (MAs) can be provided. Multiple side regions (MAs) can be set separately between the central region (MAc) and multiple sub-regions (SA).

[0125] For example, the side regions MAs may include a first side region MAs1, a second side region MAs2, a third side region MAs3, and a fourth side region MAs4. The first side region MAs1, second side region MAs2, third side region MAs3, and fourth side region MAs4 may be respectively located between the central region MAc and multiple sub-regions SA. The first side region MAs1 may be located between the central region MAc and the first sub-region SA1, the second side region MAs2 may be located between the central region MAc and the second sub-region SA2, the third side region MAs3 may be located between the central region MAc and the third sub-region SA3, and the fourth side region MAs4 may be located between the central region MAc and the fourth sub-region SA4.

[0126] The corner area CA can be located at the corner of the main area MA. The display panel 10 can be attached to correspond to the main area MA of the guide film GF. In this case, the corner area CA of the main area MA can correspond to the corner display area CDA of the display panel 10.

[0127] Multiple corner regions (CAs) can be provided. Multiple corner regions (CAs) can be located at the corners of the main region (MA). Furthermore, corner regions (CAs) can connect side regions (MAs) to each other. For example, corner regions (CAs) can include a first corner region (CA1), a second corner region (CA2), a third corner region (CA3), and a fourth corner region (CA4). The first corner region (CA1), second corner region (CA2), third corner region (CA3), and fourth corner region (CA4) can each be located at a corner of the main region (MA). The first corner region (CA1) can connect the first side region (MAs1) to the second side region (MAs2), the second corner region (CA2) can connect the second side region (MAs2) to the third side region (MAs3), the third corner region (CA3) can connect the third side region (MAs3) to the fourth side region (MAs4), and the fourth corner region (CA4) can connect the first side region (MAs1) to the fourth side region (MAs4).

[0128] The corner region CA can protrude between the spaced-apart sub-regions SA. For example, the first corner region CA1 can protrude between the first sub-region SA1 and the second sub-region SA2, the second corner region CA2 can protrude between the second sub-region SA2 and the third sub-region SA3, the third corner region CA3 can protrude between the third sub-region SA3 and the fourth sub-region SA4, and the fourth corner region CA4 can protrude between the first sub-region SA1 and the fourth sub-region SA4. The corner region CA can protrude to a length similar to that of the sub-region SA. That is, the degree to which the corner region CA protrudes away from the center of the guiding membrane GF can be varied. The corner region CA can have an inverted triangular shape. That is, the width of the planar shape of the corner region CA can increase with the distance from the central region MAc.

[0129] refer to Figure 6B The first corner region CA1, the second corner region CA2, the third corner region CA3, and the fourth corner region CA4 can each be located between adjacent sub-regions, allowing adjacent sub-regions to connect with each other. The guiding membrane GF can have an octagonal shape.

[0130] While the planar shape of the guide membrane GF is illustrated, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the planar shape of the guide membrane GF may be circular or elliptical. In one embodiment, the guide membrane GF may have, in addition to Figure 6B Other polygonal shapes besides the octagonal shape illustrated. In one embodiment, the guide membrane GF may include only... Figure 6A The illustration shows a central region MAc, side regions MAs, and sub-region SA. In one embodiment, the guiding membrane GF may include... Figure 6A The example shows the central region MAc, side regions MAs, sub-regions SA, and corner region CA. In this case, the planar shape of the corner region CA can have a fan shape that connects adjacent sub-regions SA to each other.

[0131] refer to Figure 7 The display panel 10, disposed on the guide film GF, may include a main display area MDA, a sub-display area SDA, and a corner display area CDA, wherein a plurality of pixels are spaced apart from each other. Although not in Figure 7 As illustrated, the display panel 10 may further include a peripheral area outside the main display area MDA, the sub-display area SDA, and the corner display area CDA. No pixels are disposed in the peripheral area.

[0132] The secondary display area SDA can be connected to the edge sd of the primary display area MDA. The secondary display area SDA can extend from the edge sd of the primary display area MDA.

[0133] Multiple sub-display areas SDA can be provided. For example, a sub-display area SDA may include a first sub-display area SDA1 connected to the first side sd1 of the main display area MDA, a second sub-display area SDA2 connected to the second side sd2 of the main display area MDA, a third sub-display area SDA3 connected to the third side sd3 of the main display area MDA, and a fourth sub-display area SDA4 connected to the fourth side sd4 of the main display area MDA.

[0134] A corner display area (CDA) can be connected to the corner of the main display area (MDA). A corner display area (CDA) can extend from the corner of the main display area (MDA). A corner display area (CDA) can be positioned between multiple sub-display areas (SDAs).

[0135] For example, the corner display area CDA may include a first corner display area CDA1, a second corner display area CDA2, a third corner display area CDA3, and a fourth corner display area CDA4. The first corner display area CDA1, the second corner display area CDA2, the third corner display area CDA3, and the fourth corner display area CDA4 can be connected to the corners of the main display area MDA, respectively. The first corner display area CDA1 can be located between the first sub-display area SDA1 and the second sub-display area SDA2; the second corner display area CDA2 can be located between the second sub-display area SDA2 and the third sub-display area SDA3; the third corner display area CDA3 can be located between the third sub-display area SDA3 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4; and the fourth corner display area CDA4 can be located between the first sub-display area SDA1 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4.

[0136] refer to Figure 5B The second adhesive layer 20a can be disposed between the rear surface of the display panel 10 and the guide film GF, and the rear surface of the display panel 10 can be attached to the guide film GF through the second adhesive layer 20a. The second adhesive layer 20a can be a transparent adhesive component such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film. The second adhesive layer 20a may include a silicon-based OCA film.

[0137] The guide film GF can be attached to the rear surface of the display panel 10, such that the rear surface of the display panel 10 corresponds to the main area MA of the guide film GF. The main display area MDA, sub-display area SDA, and corner display area CDA of the display panel 10 can be attached to correspond to the main area MA of the guide film GF. The sub-area SA of the guide film GF and the display panel 10 do not overlap with each other.

[0138] refer to Figure 5A The guide film GF can be fixed by the clamping part 700, and the cover window CW can be placed and fixed to the second clamp 610. A portion of the guide film GF can contact the first clamp 510. By suctioning the gas formed in the suction holes in the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610, the first clamp 510 can fix the guide film GF, and the second clamp 610 can fix the cover window CW.

[0139] When the guide film GF is fixed to the clamping part 700 and the first clamp 510, and the cover window CW is fixed to the second clamp 610, the first heating part 540 and the second heating part 640 can be operated to heat the guide film GF and the cover window CW respectively. At this time, the first heating part 540 and the second heating part 640 can heat the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610 respectively, thereby indirectly increasing the temperature of the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 on the guide film GF, as well as the temperature of the cover window CW. In this case, the first heating part 540 and the second heating part 640 can be controlled so that the temperature of the first clamp 510 is higher than the temperature of the second clamp 610.

[0140] Figure 8 It is an illustrative example. Figure 5A A plan view illustrating the positions of the guide membrane and the covering component.

[0141] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 5A The first clamp 510 and the cover window CW can be aligned to correspond to each other.

[0142] Specifically, the vision unit 920 can capture images of the overlay window CW and the first clamp 510, and transmit the captured images to the control unit. The control unit can determine whether the positions of the overlay window CW and the first clamp 510 correspond to each other based on the positions of the overlay window CW and the first clamp 510 in the captured images.

[0143] When the control unit determines that the cover window CW and the first clamp 510 are misaligned, the control unit can rotate the first clamp 510 and the guide film GF so that the position of the first clamp 510 corresponds to the position of the cover window CW. In some embodiments, the first clamp 510 can move together with the display panel 10.

[0144] Specifically, the vision unit 920 can capture images of the first clamp 510, the guide film GF, and / or the display panel 10. Furthermore, the vision unit 920 can capture images of the cover window CW and / or the second clamp 610. In this case, the control unit can determine, based on the results captured by the vision unit 920, whether the positions of the first clamp 510, the guide film GF, and / or the display panel 10 correspond to the positions of the cover window CW and / or the second clamp 610. For example, the control unit can compare a portion of the edge of the first clamp 510, a portion of the edge of the guide film GF, and / or a portion of the edge of the display panel 10, or an alignment mark individually provided on the guide film GF and / or the display panel 10 in the image captured by the vision unit 920, with an alignment mark individually provided on the cover window CW, or at least a portion of the edge of the cover window CW and / or at least a portion of the edge of the second clamp 610. When the control unit determines that a portion of the edge of the first clamp 510, a portion of the edge of the guide film GF, and / or a portion of the edge of the display panel 10, or an alignment mark individually provided on the guide film GF and / or the display panel 10 in an image captured by the vision unit 920, differs from an alignment mark individually provided on the cover window CW, at least a portion of the edge of the cover window CW, and / or at least a portion of the edge of the second clamp 610, the control unit can align the positions of the first clamp 510, the guide film GF, and the display panel 10 such that a portion of the edge of the first clamp 510, a portion of the edge of the guide film GF, and / or a portion of the edge of the display panel 10, or an alignment mark individually provided on the guide film GF and / or the display panel 10 in an image captured by the vision unit 920, matches an alignment mark individually provided on the cover window CW, or at least a portion of the edge of the cover window CW, and / or at least a portion of the edge of the second clamp 610. Specifically, the control unit can operate the first alignment drive unit 230 to rotate the second alignment stage 220 around the first alignment stage 210. In this configuration, the clamping part 700 can rotate, causing the guide film GF and the display panel 10 to rotate, and the first clamp 510 to rotate as well. Because the clamping part 700 and the first clamp 510 move simultaneously and identically, the positions of the guide film GF, the display panel 10, and the first clamp 510 will not be misaligned. During the above process, the vision unit 920 can capture images of the first clamp 510, the guide film GF, the display panel 10, the cover window CW, and the second clamp 610, and the control unit can continue to perform the above operations based on the results captured by the vision unit 920.

[0145] When the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610 are set to correspond to each other or the cover window CW and the display panel 10 are set to correspond to each other, the display panel 10 and the cover window CW can be combined with each other.

[0146] Figure 9 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices. Figure 9 In, with Figure 1 The same reference numerals in the figures indicate the same components.

[0147] refer to Figure 9 The drive unit 130 can be operated to lower the first support member 110. When the first support member 110 is lowered, the second clamping unit 600, the second chamber 420, and the guide unit 800 can be lowered simultaneously.

[0148] As the first support 110 is lowered, the second chamber 420 and the first chamber 410 can come into contact with each other to form a single space. In this case, the sealing part 430 can prevent gas from flowing into the space between the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0149] Figure 10 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices. Figure 10 In, with Figure 1 The same reference numerals in the figures indicate the same components.

[0150] refer to Figure 10 After the first chamber 410, the second chamber 420, and the sealing part 430 form a sealed space, the guide drive part 820 can be operated to lower the guide 810. At this time, the lower end of the guide 810 can protrude from the lower end of the second clamp 610.

[0151] Furthermore, at least a portion of the guide 810 may contact the stop portion 910. In this case, the guide 810 may no longer be lowered, and the position of the guide 810 may be fixed. In this case, the portion of the guide 810 and the stop portion 910 that contacts each other may be the same as or similar to the portion of the display panel 10 and the cover window CW that are joined together.

[0152] Figure 11A It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices. Figure 11B It is an illustrative example. Figure 11A A perspective view of a portion of the guide, guide film, display panel, and adhesive layer illustrated in the image. Figure 11C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices. Figures 11A to 11C In, with Figure 1 The same reference numerals in the figures indicate the same components.

[0153] refer to Figures 11A to 11CThe first clamp drive unit 530 can be operated to raise the first movable plate 520 and the first clamp 510. As the first clamp 510 rises, the guide film GF disposed thereon on the display panel 10 can also rise. In this case, the position of the end of the guide film GF constrained by the clamping part 700 does not change.

[0154] A portion of the guide membrane GF can be raised together with the first clamp 510 and come into contact with the guide member 810. At this time, the guide member 810 can bend the guide membrane GF, and a portion of the guide membrane GF can come into close contact with the side surface of the first clamp 510.

[0155] In this configuration, the shapes of the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 disposed on the guide film GF can be altered along with the guide film GF to correspond to a surface of the cover window CW. For example, the edge portions of the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 can be bent. The guide 810 can improve the bonding quality of the display panel 10 and the cover window CW by changing the shape of the guide film GF to the shape of the cover window CW before the cover window CW and the display panel 10 are bonded together. Specifically, when the display panel 10 and the cover window CW are bonded together without pre-deforming the display panel 10, due to the self-restoring force of the display panel 10, the display panel 10 and the cover window CW may separate from each other at the bent edge portion of the cover window CW after they are bonded together. However, at least a portion of the display panel 10 can be pre-deformed by deforming the guide film GF into the guide 810, thereby reducing a portion of the restoring force of the display panel 10. Accordingly, after the display panel 10 and the cover window CW are combined with each other, the separation of the display panel 10 from the cover window CW at the curved portion of the cover window CW can be reduced.

[0156] In this configuration, the guide 810 can be positioned around the periphery of the first clamp 510. The first clamp 510 can then be inserted into the guide 810.

[0157] Specifically, by using the guide 810, the guide film GF can be in close contact with the side surface of the first clamp 510. The guide 810 can be disposed in the sub-region SA and the corner region CA of the guide film GF. As a result, the display panel 10 can be pre-formed to match the shape of the cover window CW.

[0158] An external force can be applied to the guide film GF mounted on the first clamp 510 via the guide member 810. That is, an external force can be applied to the sub-region SA of the guide film GF via the guide member 810, and an external force can be applied to the corner region CA of the guide film GF via the guide member 810.

[0159] The guide film GF can be bent by an external force applied to it. For example, the main region MA of the guide film GF can be deformed to have curvature. When the guide film GF is deformed by an external force, the shape of the display panel 10 attached to the main region MA of the guide film GF will also be deformed. For example, as Figure 11B As shown, the sub-display area SDA and corner display area CDA of the display panel 10 can be deformed to have curvature. In particular, when the sub-display area SDA adjacent to the corner display area CDA is bent, the corner display area CDA can shrink. The pre-formed display panel 10 can be divided into regions including curvature and regions not including curvature relative to each edge sd of the main display area MDA.

[0160] As a result of the pre-formed display panel 10, the sub-display area SDA and the corner display area CDA of the display panel 10 can be positioned on the same side relative to the main display area MDA. For example, as Figure 11B As shown, the sub-display area SDA and corner display area CDA of the display panel 10 can be positioned on the rear side of the display panel 10 (e.g., in the -z direction) relative to the main display area MDA.

[0161] In one embodiment, the guide film GF may include a corner region CA. As described above, when the corner display region CDA of the display panel 10 is formed, the corner display region CDA can receive a contractile force from the sub-display region SDA adjacent to the corner display region CDA. The corner display region CDA can be squeezed. According to one embodiment, the guide film GF can be freely deformed by an external force applied to the guide film GF. For example, when a contractile force is applied to the guide film GF, the guide film GF can deform without wrinkles or the like appearing on the surface of the guide film GF.

[0162] refer to Figure 11C The first clamp 510 may have a central portion that protrudes significantly more than the other portions. In this case, the upper surface of the first clamp 510 may protrude significantly towards the cover window CW in the main display area MDA of the display panel 10 than it does in other display areas.

[0163] During the aforementioned process, the sensing unit 790 can detect the force applied to the guide film GF at each clamping portion 700. In some embodiments, the force applied to the guide film GF can be measured at each of at least two portions of the guide film GF. The control unit can control the first clamping drive of the clamping portion 700 such that the result measured by the sensing unit 790 corresponds to a set force required to pull each portion of the guide film GF in the clamping portion 700. The control unit can control the position of the clamping member 770 in real time based on the result measured by the sensing unit 790. In some embodiments, the force applied to at least two portions of the guide film GF can be adjusted to be equal to a preset force.

[0164] Figures 12A to 12C It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0165] refer to Figures 12A to 12C The guide film GF can be deformed, causing the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 to be fundamentally deformed, and the second clamp 610 can be lowered, so that the display panel 10 and the cover window CW are attached to each other through the first adhesive layer 20.

[0166] At this point, a portion of the main display area MDA, which is the central part of the display panel 10, can be bonded to the cover window CW. In the final shape of the display panel 10, a flat surface without curvature (e.g., the main display area MDA) can first be bonded to the cover window CW. Subsequently, the cover window CW can be bonded to the curved sub-display area SDA and corner display area CDA of the display panel 10. The process of bonding the cover window CW to the sub-display area SDA and the corner display area CDA can be performed simultaneously. For example, when the sub-display area SDA is bonded to the cover window CW, the corner display area CDA can be naturally bonded to the cover window CW by surrounding external forces. As an example, the process of bonding the sub-display area SDA and the corner display area CDA to the cover window CW can be performed at different times. For example, after the sub-display area SDA and the cover window CW are bonded to each other, the corner display area CDA and the cover window CW can be bonded to each other.

[0167] In this case, the shape of the pad 512 can be changed so that the pad 512 is attached to the flat portion of the cover window CW. The display panel 10 can be attached not only at the beginning of the bend, but also on the curved surface of the cover window CW, without air bubbles.

[0168] During the aforementioned process, the pressure control unit 140 can discharge gas from the space shielded by the first chamber 410, the second chamber 420, and the sealing unit 430 to the outside. Accordingly, the bonding quality between the cover window CW and the display panel 10 can be improved by preventing foreign substances or gases from being present between the cover window CW and the first adhesive layer 20.

[0169] When the second clamp 610 is lowered, the guide drive unit 820 can also be lowered. At this time, because the position of the guide 810 is fixed by the stop unit 910, the guide 810 will not be lowered. Because the internal gas is compressed by the stop unit 910, the guide drive unit 820 can be lowered together with the second clamp 610 even when the position of the guide 810 does not change.

[0170] After the display panel 10 is attached to the cover window CW, the display panel 10 with the cover window CW attached can be separated from the second clamp 610. Thereafter, the display panel 10 with the cover window CW and guide film GF attached can be unloaded, and the guide film GF can be removed from the display panel 10. At this time, the second adhesive layer 20a on the guide film GF and the display panel 10 can be separated from each other in various ways. In one embodiment, when the second adhesive layer 20a with the guide film GF attached to the display panel 10 is implemented as an ultraviolet (UV) adhesive sheet, the guide film GF and the display panel 10 can be separated from each other by irradiating the second adhesive layer 20a with UV light. For example, when UV light is irradiated onto the second adhesive layer 20a, the adhesive force between the second adhesive layer 20a and the display panel 10 becomes relatively weak, and therefore, the guide film GF and the display panel 10 can be separated from each other. In one embodiment, the adhesive force between the second adhesive layer 20a and the display panel 10 becomes relatively weak, and therefore, the second adhesive layer 20a may remain on the guide film GF. In one embodiment, the adhesion between the second adhesive layer 20a and the guide film GF may become relatively weak. In this case, the second adhesive layer 20a may remain on the display panel 10.

[0171] Figure 13 It is an illustrative example. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operation of equipment used to manufacture display devices.

[0172] refer to Figure 13 The equipment 1000 used for manufacturing display devices can also be used with reference. Figures 5A to 12C The described devices 1000 operate differently.

[0173] Specifically, as referenced Figure 5A The display panel 10 and the guide film GF disposed thereon on the first adhesive layer 20 can be fixed by the clamping part 700 and the first clamp 510, and the cover window CW can be placed on the second clamp 610. In addition, the first heating part 540 and the second heating part 640 can be operated to increase the temperature of the display panel 10 and the temperature of the cover window CW, respectively.

[0174] like Figure 13 As shown, the first clamp drive unit 530 is operable to raise the first moving plate 520 and the first clamp 510. Accordingly, the guide film GF, as well as the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 on the guide film GF, can be substantially deformed (e.g., a portion of it can be bent).

[0175] For reference Figure 8 As described above, when the above process is completed, the first fixture 510 and the cover window CW can be aligned with each other. Furthermore, as referenced... Figure 8The cover window CW and the display panel 10 can be aligned with each other, or the display panel 10 and the second clamp 610 can be aligned with each other.

[0176] Subsequently, as per reference Figure 9 The drive unit 130 is operable to form a space shielded by the first chamber 410, the second chamber 420, and the sealing unit 430. (See reference...) Figure 10 and Figure 11A The guide drive unit 820 is operable to lower the guide 810 so that the guide 810 contacts the guide film GF, and therefore, the guide film GF can make close contact with the side surface of the first clamp 510. In this case, as referenced... Figures 11A to 11C The display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer 20 on the guide film GF are deformable.

[0177] For reference Figures 12A to 12C When the above process is completed, the cover window CW and the display panel 10 are attached to each other via the first adhesive layer 20 by applying pressure to them via the second clamp drive unit 630. At this time, the pressure control unit 140 can release the gas inside the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420, thereby improving the bonding quality.

[0178] For reference Figures 3A to 3C As described above, when the above process is performed, the sensing unit 790 can detect the force exerted by the clamping unit 700 on the guide film GF, and the control unit can control the first clamping member drive unit 710 based on the result detected by the sensing unit 790. At this time, because the method by which the control unit controls the first clamping member drive unit 710 is similar to the reference... Figures 3A to 3C The methods described are the same or similar, so their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0179] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0180] refer to Figure 14The apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device may include a base portion 100, an alignment portion 200, a chamber portion 400, a first clamp portion 500, a second clamp portion 600, a guide portion 800, a stop portion 910, and a vision portion 920. The base portion 100 may include a first support member 110, a second support member 120, a drive portion 130, and a pressure control portion 140. The alignment portion 200 may include a first alignment stage 210, a second alignment stage 220, a first alignment drive portion 230, and a first connecting portion 240. The chamber portion 400 may include a first chamber 410, a second chamber 420, and a sealing portion 430. The first clamp portion 500 may include a first clamp 510, a first moving plate 520, a first clamp drive portion 530, and a first heating portion 540. The second clamp portion 600 may include a second clamp 610, a second moving plate 620, a second clamp drive portion 630, and a second heating portion 640. The guide section 800 may include a guide member 810 and a guide member drive section 820. The stop section 910 may include a stop support member 912 and a stop 911. The base section 100, alignment section 200, chamber section 400, first clamp section 500, second clamp section 600, stop section 910, and vision section 920 may be connected to a reference. Figure 1 Those described are the same or similar. For ease of explanation, the main focus is on describing the similarities. Figure 1 The differences.

[0181] Because the guide 810 and the reference Figure 1 The described guide 810 is the same as or similar to it, so its detailed description is omitted.

[0182] The guide drive unit 820 can be disposed in the first chamber 410. In this case, the guide drive unit 820 can be operated independently of the movement of the second clamp 610.

[0183] The operation of the equipment 1000 for manufacturing display devices can be referenced. Figures 5A to 12C The described operation is similar, or can be compared with the reference. Figure 13 The operations described are similar.

[0184] Specifically, the operation of the first chamber 410, the second chamber 420, the first clamp 510, the second clamp 610, and the pressure control unit 140 can be referenced. Figures 5A to 12C The operations described are the same.

[0185] For reference Figure 11AThe first clamp 510 can be raised to bend the guide membrane GF, and the guide member 810 can be lowered to contact the guide membrane GF before the second clamp 610. At this time, the guide member drive unit 820 can operate, and when or after the second chamber 420 is lowered, the guide member drive unit 820 can lower the guide member 810. The guide member 810 can be lowered according to the operation of the guide member drive unit 820 and can contact the stopper unit 910.

[0186] After the guide 810 contacts the guide membrane GF, the second clamp drive unit 630 can... Figures 12A to 12C The operation shown is to attach the display panel 10 to the cover window CW via the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610. At this time, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0187] In one embodiment, as referenced Figure 13 The first clamp 510 can be raised to bend the guide membrane GF, and the guide member 810 can be lowered to contact the guide membrane GF before the second clamp 610. Thereafter, the second clamp drive unit 630 can be operated to attach the display panel 10 to the cover window CW via the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610. At this time, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0188] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0189] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16The apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device may include a base portion 100, an alignment portion 200, a chamber portion 400, a first clamp portion 500, a second clamp portion 600, a guide portion 800, and a viewing portion 920. The base portion 100 may include a first support member 110, a second support member 120, a drive portion 130, and a pressure control portion 140. The alignment portion 200 may include a first alignment stage 210, a second alignment stage 220, a first alignment drive portion 230, and a first connecting portion 240. The chamber portion 400 may include a first chamber 410, a second chamber 420, and a sealing portion 430. The first clamp portion 500 may include a first clamp 510, a first moving plate 520, a first clamp drive portion 530, and a first heating portion 540. The second clamp portion 600 may include a second clamp 610, a second moving plate 620, a second clamp drive portion 630, and a second heating portion 640. The base part 100, alignment part 200, chamber part 400, first clamp part 500, second clamp part 600 and vision part 920 can be referenced. Figure 1 Those described are the same or similar. For ease of explanation, the main focus is on describing the similarities. Figure 1 The differences.

[0190] The guide part 800 can be fixed to the second clamp part 600. For example, as Figure 15 As shown, the guide portion 800 may include a guide member connecting portion 830 connected to the second movable plate 620 and a guide member 810 connected to the guide member connecting portion 830 and having a portion protruding from the lower surface of the second clamp 610. In one embodiment, as Figure 16 As shown, the guide portion 800 can be connected to the second clamp 610. The guide portion 800 may include a guide member connecting portion 830 connected to the second clamp 610 and a guide member 810 connected to the guide member connecting portion 830 and having a portion protruding from the lower surface of the second clamp 610.

[0191] Equipment 1000 for manufacturing display devices can perform and reference Figures 5A to 12C Described process or reference Figure 13 The processes described are similar to those described.

[0192] For example, in execution Figures 5A to 10 After the process, when the second clamp drive unit 630 operates to lower the second clamp 610, the guide 810 can also be lowered. At this time, as the second clamp 610 continues to lower, the guide 810, protruding from the lower surface of the second clamp 610, can first contact the guide film GF, so that, as referenced... Figure 11A The guide film GF, the display panel 10, and the first adhesive layer 20 are deformed.

[0193] Subsequently, as the second clamp 610 continues to lower, as referenced... Figures 12A to 12CThe display panel 10 can be attached to the cover window CW while the guide film GF, the display panel 10, and the first adhesive layer 20 are deformed. At this time, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0194] For reference Figures 3A to 3C As described above, when the above process is performed, the sensing unit 790 can detect the force exerted by the clamping unit 700 on the guide film GF, and the control unit can control the first clamping member drive unit 710 based on the result detected by the sensing unit 790. At this time, because the method by which the control unit controls the first clamping member drive unit 710 is similar to the reference... Figures 3A to 3C The methods described are the same or similar, so their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0195] In one embodiment, as referenced Figure 13 The first clamp drive unit 530 is operable to raise the first clamp 510, causing the guide film GF, display panel 10, and first adhesive layer 20 to deform, and the second clamp drive unit 630 is operable to lower the second clamp 610. Before the cover window CW contacts the first adhesive layer 20, the guide member 810 can contact the deformed guide film GF. When the guide member 810 contacts the guide film GF, the guide film GF, display panel 10, and first adhesive layer 20 can deform more than when the first clamp 510 is raised, and can have a shape almost similar to one surface of the cover window CW or the surface of the first clamp 510.

[0196] Subsequently, as the second clamp 610 continues to lower, as referenced... Figures 12A to 12C The display panel 10 can be attached to the cover window CW while the guide film GF, the display panel 10, and the first adhesive layer 20 are deformed. At this time, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0197] For reference Figures 3A to 3C As described above, when the above process is performed, the sensing unit 790 can detect the force exerted by the clamping unit 700 on the guide film GF, and the control unit can control the first clamping member drive unit 710 based on the result detected by the sensing unit 790. At this time, because the method by which the control unit controls the first clamping member drive unit 710 is similar to the reference... Figures 3A to 3C The methods described are the same or similar, so their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0198] Figure 17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0199] refer to Figure 17The apparatus 1000 for manufacturing a display device may include a base portion 100, an alignment portion 200, a chamber portion 400, a first clamp portion 500, a second clamp portion 600, a guide portion 800, a stop portion 910, and a vision portion 920. The base portion 100 may include a first support member 110, a second support member 120, a drive portion 130, and a pressure control portion 140. The alignment portion 200 may include a first alignment stage 210, a second alignment stage 220, a first alignment drive portion 230, and a first connecting portion 240. The chamber portion 400 may include a first chamber 410, a second chamber 420, and a sealing portion 430. The first clamp portion 500 may include a first clamp 510, a first moving plate 520, a first clamp drive portion 530, and a first heating portion 540. The second clamp portion 600 may include a second clamp 610, a second moving plate 620, a second clamp drive portion 630, and a second heating portion 640. The guide section 800 may include a guide member 810 and a guide member drive section 820. The stop section 910 may include a stop support member 912 and a stop 911. The base section 100, alignment section 200, chamber section 400, first clamp section 500, second clamp section 600, stop section 910, and vision section 920 may be connected to a reference. Figure 1 Those described are the same or similar. For ease of explanation, the main focus is on describing the similarities. Figure 1 The differences.

[0200] Because the guide 810 and the reference Figure 1 The described guide 810 is the same as or similar to it, so its detailed description is omitted.

[0201] The guide drive unit 820 can be disposed on the first support member 110. In this case, the guide drive unit 820 can move together with the second clamp 610.

[0202] The operation of the equipment 1000 for manufacturing display devices can be referenced. Figures 5A to 12C The described operation is similar, or can be compared with the reference. Figure 13 The operations described are similar.

[0203] Specifically, the operation of the first chamber 410, the second chamber 420, the first clamp 510, the second clamp 610, and the pressure control unit 140 can be referenced. Figures 5A to 12C The operations described are the same.

[0204] For reference Figure 11A The first clamp 510 can be raised to bend the guide film GF, and the guide 810 can be lowered to contact the guide film GF before the second clamp 610. In this case, the guide 810 can be lowered according to the operation of the guide drive 820 and can contact the stopper 910.

[0205] After the guide 810 contacts the guide membrane GF, the second clamp drive unit 630 can... Figures 12A to 12C The operation shown is to attach the display panel 10 to the cover window CW via the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610. At this time, the gas inside the guide drive unit 820 can be compressed, and the position of the guide 810 can be maintained when the guide 810 contacts the stop unit 910. Furthermore, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0206] In one embodiment, as referenced Figure 13 The first clamp 510 can be raised to bend the guide film GF, and the guide 810 can be lowered to contact the guide film GF before the second clamp 610. Thereafter, the second clamp drive 630 can be operated to attach the display panel 10 to the cover window CW via the first clamp 510 and the second clamp 610. At this time, the gas inside the guide drive 820 can be compressed, and the position of the guide 810 can be maintained when it contacts the stopper 910. Furthermore, the pressure control unit 140 can be operated to move gas and / or foreign matter between the display panel 10 and the cover window CW to the outside of the first chamber 410 and the second chamber 420.

[0207] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 19 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to one embodiment. Figures 20A to 20C It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the display device illustrated in the image.

[0208] refer to Figures 18 to 20C The display device DD may have a long side in a first direction and a short side in a second direction. The first and second directions may intersect each other. For example, the first and second directions may form an acute angle. As an example, the first and second directions may form an obtuse angle or a right angle. The case where the first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and the second direction (e.g., the x-direction) form a right angle is described in detail below.

[0209] In one embodiment, in the display device DD, the length of the side in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction) may be equal to the length of the side in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction). In one embodiment, the display device DD may have a short side in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction) and a long side in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction).

[0210] The corner where the long side in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction) intersects the short side in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction) can be arc-shaped to have a specific curvature.

[0211] The display device DD may include a display panel 10 and a cover window CW. The cover window CW can protect the display panel 10.

[0212] The cover window CW can be a flexible window. The cover window CW can be easily bent under external force without causing cracks, thereby protecting the display panel 10. The cover window CW can include glass, sapphire, or plastic. For example, the cover window CW can include ultra-thin glass (UTG) and colorless polyimide (CPI). In one embodiment, the cover window CW can have a structure in which a flexible polymer layer is disposed on one surface of a glass substrate, or it can consist only of a polymer layer.

[0213] Display panel 10 can be positioned below the overlay window CW. Although not in Figures 20A to 20C As illustrated, however, the display panel 10 can be attached to the cover window CW via a transparent adhesive member such as an OCA film.

[0214] Display panel 10 may include a display area DA in which an image is displayed and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may include a plurality of pixels PX, and an image may be displayed through the plurality of pixels PX. Each of the plurality of pixels PX may include a sub-pixel. For example, the plurality of pixels PX may each include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel. In another example, the plurality of pixels PX may each include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel, and a white sub-pixel.

[0215] The display area DA can include a main display area MDA, a secondary display area SDA, and a corner display area CDA. Each of the main display area MDA, secondary display area SDA, and corner display area CDA can include multiple pixels PX, and these multiple pixels PX can display images.

[0216] For example, multiple pixels PX located in the main display area MDA, the secondary display area SDA, and the corner display area CDA can each provide an independent image. As an example, multiple pixels PX located in the main display area MDA, the secondary display area SDA, and the corner display area CDA can each provide a portion of the image.

[0217] The main display area (MDA) is a flat display area that may include pixels (PX) containing display elements. The MDA can provide most of the image.

[0218] Pixels PX, including display elements, can also be located in the sub-display area SDA. The sub-display area SDA can display images through pixels PX. The sub-display area SDA may include a first sub-display area SDA1, a second sub-display area SDA2, a third sub-display area SDA3, and a fourth sub-display area SDA4. At least one of the first sub-display area SDA1, the second sub-display area SDA2, the third sub-display area SDA3, and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 may be omitted.

[0219] The first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 can be connected to the main display area MDA in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction). For example, the first sub-display area SDA1 can extend from the main display area MDA in the +y direction, and the third sub-display area SDA3 can extend from the main display area MDA in the -y direction. The first sub-display area SDA1 can be connected to the first side sd1 of the main display area MDA, and the third sub-display area SDA3 can be connected to the third side sd3 of the main display area MDA.

[0220] The first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 can each be bent with arbitrary radii of curvature. For example, the radii of curvature of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 can be different from each other. As an example, the radii of curvature of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 can be the same as each other. In the following text, the case where the radii of curvature of the first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 are equal to the first radius of curvature r1 will be described in detail. Furthermore, since the first sub-display area SDA1 and the third sub-display area SDA3 are the same or similar to each other, the first sub-display area SDA1 will be described in detail.

[0221] The second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 can be connected to the main display area MDA in a second direction (e.g., the x direction). For example, the second sub-display area SDA2 can extend from the main display area MDA in the +x direction, and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 can extend from the main display area MDA in the -x direction.

[0222] The second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 can each be bent with any radius of curvature. For example, the radii of curvature of the second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 can be different from each other. As an example, the radii of curvature of the second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 can be the same as each other. In the following text, the case where the radii of curvature of the second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 are equal to the second radius of curvature r2 will be described in detail. Furthermore, since the second sub-display area SDA2 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4 are the same or similar to each other, the second sub-display area SDA2 will be described in detail.

[0223] In one embodiment, the first radius of curvature r1 of the first sub-display area SDA1 may be different from the second radius of curvature r2 of the second sub-display area SDA2. For example, the first radius of curvature r1 may be smaller than the second radius of curvature r2. As an example, the first radius of curvature r1 may be larger than the second radius of curvature r2.

[0224] In one embodiment, the first radius of curvature r1 of the first sub-display area SDA1 can be equal to the second radius of curvature r2 of the second sub-display area SDA2. The following description primarily focuses on the case where the first radius of curvature r1 is greater than the second radius of curvature r2.

[0225] The corner display area CDA can extend from the corner of the main display area MDA and bend. The corner display area CDA can be set to correspond to the corner portion CP. The corner portion CP is the corner of the display area DA, and can be the part where the long side of the display area DA in the first direction (e.g., the y direction) intersects with the short side in the second direction (e.g., the x direction).

[0226] The corner display area CDA can be positioned between adjacent sub-display areas SDA. For example, the corner display area CDA can be positioned between the first sub-display area SDA1 and the second sub-display area SDA2. The corner display area CDA can also be positioned between the second sub-display area SDA2 and the third sub-display area SDA3, the third sub-display area SDA3 and the fourth sub-display area SDA4, or the fourth sub-display area SDA4 and the first sub-display area SDA1. Accordingly, the sub-display areas SDA and the corner display area CDA can be positioned to surround the main display area MDA, and each can be bent with an arbitrary radius of curvature.

[0227] The third radius of curvature r3 of the corner display area CDA can be changed. For example, when the first radius of curvature r1 of the first sub-display area SDA1 is different from the second radius of curvature r2 of the second sub-display area SDA2, the third radius of curvature r3 of the corner display area CDA can be gradually changed within the range between the first radius of curvature r1 and the second radius of curvature r2.

[0228] In one embodiment, when the first radius of curvature r1 of the first sub-display area SDA1 is greater than the second radius of curvature r2 of the second sub-display area SDA2, the third radius of curvature r3 of the corner display area CDA can gradually decrease in the direction from the first sub-display area SDA1 to the second sub-display area SDA2. For example, the third radius of curvature r3 of the corner display area CDA can be less than the first radius of curvature r1 and greater than the second radius of curvature r2.

[0229] In one embodiment, the display device DD can display images not only in the main display area MDA, but also in the secondary display area SDA and the corner display area CDA. Accordingly, the proportion of the display area DA in the display device DD can be increased. Furthermore, the display device DD can be curved at the corners and includes a corner display area CDA that enables the image to be displayed, thereby improving aesthetics.

[0230] However, the CW overlay window is not limited to Figure 18 The shapes illustrated are shown below. For example, although not illustrated, the entire surface of the cover window CW can be curved. For example, the cover window CW can be in the form of a portion of a sphere. In this case, the cross-section of the cover window CW can have a constant radius of curvature. In one embodiment, the cover window CW can be in the form of a portion of an ellipsoid. In this case, the cross-section of the cover window CW can be in the form of multiple connected curves with different radii of curvature.

[0231] Figure 21 It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the display area of ​​the display panel illustrated in the image.

[0232] refer to Figure 21 The display panel may include a substrate SU, a buffer layer 11, a pixel circuit layer PCL, a display element layer DEL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0233] The substrate SU may comprise glass or a polymeric resin such as polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, or cellulose acetate propionate. The substrate SU comprising the polymeric resin may be flexible, rollable, or bendable. The substrate SU may have a multilayer structure including an insulating layer (not shown) and a base layer comprising the aforementioned polymeric resin.

[0234] The buffer layer 11 may contain an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, or silicon oxide, and may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating material.

[0235] The pixel circuit layer PCL can be disposed on the buffer layer 11. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include thin-film transistors (TFTs) included in the pixel circuit, and may include an inorganic insulating layer IIL, a first planarization layer 15, and a second planarization layer 16 disposed below and / or above the components of the thin-film transistor TFTs. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a first gate insulating layer 12, a second gate insulating layer 13, and an interlayer insulating layer 14.

[0236] A thin-film transistor (TFT) may include a semiconductor layer A, and semiconductor layer A may include polycrystalline silicon. In one example, semiconductor layer A may include amorphous silicon, oxide semiconductor, or organic semiconductor. Semiconductor layer A may include a channel region and drain and source regions on opposite sides of the channel region, respectively. A gate electrode G may overlap with the channel region.

[0237] The gate electrode G may contain a low-resistance metallic material. The gate electrode G may contain conductive materials such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti), and may comprise a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned conductive materials.

[0238] The first gate insulating layer 12 between the semiconductor layer A and the gate electrode G may include materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO) x N y Aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and / or zinc oxide (ZnO) x Inorganic insulating materials. In this case, zinc oxide (ZnO) x () can be ZnO and / or ZnO2.

[0239] The second gate insulating layer 13 may cover the gate electrode G. Similar to the first gate insulating layer 12, the second gate insulating layer 13 may include materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO) x N y Aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and / or zinc oxide (ZnO) x Inorganic insulating materials. In this case, zinc oxide (ZnO) x () can be ZnO and / or ZnO2.

[0240] The upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst can be disposed on the second gate insulating layer 13. The upper electrode CE2 can overlap with the gate electrode G below it. In this case, the gate electrode G and the upper electrode CE2, which overlap each other and have the second gate insulating layer 13 between them, can constitute the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the gate electrode G can be used as the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst. As described above, the storage capacitor Cst and the thin-film transistor TFT can overlap each other. In some embodiments, the storage capacitor Cst may not overlap with the thin-film transistor TFT.

[0241] The upper electrode CE2 may contain aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W) and / or copper (Cu), and may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the above materials.

[0242] The interlayer insulating layer 14 can cover the upper electrode CE2. The interlayer insulating layer 14 can contain silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO) x N y Aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and / or zinc oxide (ZnO) x In this case, zinc oxide (ZnO) x The material can be ZnO and / or ZnO2. The interlayer insulation layer 14 may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating material.

[0243] Drain electrode D and source electrode S can be disposed on interlayer insulating layer 14. Drain electrode D and source electrode S can each comprise a material with good conductivity. Drain electrode D and source electrode S can each comprise a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and / or titanium (Ti), and can each comprise a single layer or multiple layers comprising the aforementioned conductive material. In one embodiment, drain electrode D and source electrode S can each have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0244] The first planarization layer 15 may be configured to cover the drain electrode D and the source electrode S. The first planarization layer 15 may include an organic insulating material. The first planarization layer 15 may include an organic insulating material, such as a general polymer such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), a polymer derivative having phenolic groups, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, an amide polymer, a fluorinated polymer, a p-xylene polymer, a vinyl alcohol polymer, and / or any blend thereof.

[0245] A connecting electrode CML can be disposed on the first planarization layer 15. In this case, the connecting electrode CML can be connected to the drain electrode D or the source electrode S through the contact holes of the first planarization layer 15. The connecting electrode CML can include a material with good conductivity. The connecting electrode CML can contain conductive materials including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and / or titanium (Ti), and can include a single layer or multiple layers containing the above-mentioned conductive materials. In one embodiment, the connecting electrode CML can have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0246] The second planarization layer 16 may be configured to cover the connection electrode CML. The second planarization layer 16 may include an organic insulating layer. The second planarization layer 16 may include an organic insulating material, such as a general polymer such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives having phenolic groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, aryl ether polymers, amide polymers, fluorinated polymers, p-xylene polymers, vinyl alcohol polymers, and / or any blend thereof.

[0247] The display element layer DEL can be disposed on the pixel circuit layer PCL. The display element layer DEL can include display elements ED. The display element ED can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The pixel electrode 21 of the display element ED can be electrically connected to the connection electrode CML through the contact hole of the second planarization layer 16.

[0248] Pixel electrode 21 may include conductive oxides such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), and / or zinc aluminum oxide (AZO). In one embodiment, pixel electrode 21 may include a reflective layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), and / or any compound thereof. In one embodiment, pixel electrode 21 may further include a layer comprising ITO, IZO, ZnO, and / or In2O3 above and / or below the reflective layer.

[0249] A barrier layer 18 having an opening 18OP exposing the central portion of the pixel electrode 21 can be disposed on the pixel electrode 21. The barrier layer 18 may comprise an organic insulating material and / or an inorganic insulating material. The opening 18OP may define an emission region (hereinafter referred to as the emission region EA) of light emitted from the display element ED. For example, the width of the opening 18OP may correspond to the width of the emission region EA of the display element ED.

[0250] Spacer 19 may be disposed on the retaining layer 18. In the method for manufacturing a display device, spacer 19 can prevent damage to the substrate SU. When manufacturing a display panel, a mask may be used. At this time, when the mask is inserted into the opening 18OP of the retaining layer 18, or when the mask is in close contact with the retaining layer 18 and the deposition material is deposited on the substrate SU, spacer 19 can prevent defects such as damage or destruction of a portion of the substrate SU by the mask.

[0251] Spacer 19 may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide. In another example, spacer 19 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride or silicon oxide, or may include both organic and inorganic insulating materials.

[0252] In one embodiment, spacer 19 may comprise a material different from that of retaining layer 18. In another embodiment, spacer 19 and retaining layer 18 may comprise the same material. In this case, retaining layer 18 and spacer 19 may be formed together in a masking process using a halftone mask or the like.

[0253] Intermediate layer 22 may be disposed on retaining layer 18. Intermediate layer 22 may include emitting layer 22b disposed in opening 18OP of retaining layer 18. Emitting layer 22b may include high molecular weight organic material or low molecular weight organic material that emits light of a specific color.

[0254] The first functional layer 22a and the second functional layer 22c can be disposed below and above the emitter layer 22b, respectively. For example, the first functional layer 22a may include a hole transport layer (HTL), or may include an HTL and a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer 22c may optionally be disposed on the emitter layer 22b. The second functional layer 22c may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). Like the counter electrode 23 described below, the first functional layer 22a and / or the second functional layer 22c may be a common layer that completely covers the substrate SU.

[0255] The counter electrode 23 may comprise a conductive material having a low work function. For example, the counter electrode 23 may comprise a transparent or translucent layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), and / or any alloy thereof. In another example, the counter electrode 23 may further comprise a layer comprising ITO, IZO, ZnO, and / or In2O3 on a transparent or translucent layer comprising the aforementioned materials.

[0256] In some embodiments, a capping layer (not shown) may be further disposed on the counter electrode 23. The capping layer may comprise an inorganic material (e.g., LiF) and / or an organic material.

[0257] A thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) can be disposed on the counter electrode 23. In one embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. Figure 21 An example thin-film encapsulation layer TFE includes a first inorganic encapsulation layer 31, an organic encapsulation layer 32, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 33, which are stacked sequentially in the order described herein.

[0258] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 31 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 33 may each comprise at least one inorganic material selected from alumina, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. The organic encapsulation layer 32 may comprise a polymeric material. Polymeric materials may include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, polyethylene, etc. In one embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 32 may comprise an acrylate.

[0259] Although not illustrated, a touch electrode layer may be disposed on a thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE), and an optical functional layer may be disposed on the touch electrode layer. The touch electrode layer may be configured to obtain coordinate information based on external input (e.g., a touch event). The optical functional layer may reduce the reflectivity of light incident from the outside toward the display device (e.g., external light) and / or may improve the color purity of light emitted from the display device. In one embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a retarder and / or a polarizer. The retarder may be a film-type retarder or a liquid crystal-coated retarder, and may include λ / 2 and / or λ / 4 retarders. The polarizer may be a film-type polarizer or a liquid crystal-coated polarizer. A film-type retarder or polarizer may include a stretched synthetic resin film, and a liquid crystal-coated retarder or polarizer may include liquid crystal arranged in a specific array. Each of the retarder and polarizer may further include a protective film.

[0260] In one embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a black matrix and color filters. The color filters may be configured based on the color of light emitted from each pixel of the display device. Each of the color filters may include a red, green, or blue pigment or dye. In other embodiments, in addition to pigments or dyes, each of the color filters may further include quantum dots. In still other embodiments, some color filters may not include the aforementioned pigments or dyes and may include scattering particles such as titanium dioxide.

[0261] In one embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a destructive interference structure. This destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer on different layers. First reflected light and second reflected light reflected from the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can interfere destructively with each other, and therefore, the reflectivity of external light can be reduced.

[0262] The adhesive component can be disposed between the touch electrode layer and the optical functional layer. Any general adhesive component known in the art can be used as the adhesive component without limitation. The adhesive component can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0263] Figure 22 It is an illustrative example. Figure 19 The circuit diagram of the sub-pixel circuit of the display panel is shown in the example.

[0264] refer to Figure 22 The subpixel circuit PC can include multiple thin-film transistors (see...). Figure 21 The sub-pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst, and may be electrically connected to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) for display element ED. In one embodiment, the sub-pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst.

[0265] A switching thin-film transistor T2 can be connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, and can be configured to transmit a data signal or data voltage Dm input from the data line DL to the driving thin-film transistor T1 in response to a scan voltage or switching signal Sn input from the scan line SL. A storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the driving voltage line PL, and can be configured to store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage received from the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the driving voltage line PL.

[0266] The driving thin-film transistor T1 can be connected to the driving voltage line PL and the storage capacitor Cst, and can be configured to control the driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL to the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) based on the voltage value stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The counter electrode (e.g., cathode) of the OLED can be configured to receive a second power supply voltage ELVSS. The OLED can be configured to emit light with a specific brightness according to the driving current.

[0267] Although a scenario has been described where the pixel circuit PC includes two thin-film transistors and one storage capacitor, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the sub-pixel circuit PC may include three or more thin-film transistors and / or two or more storage capacitors. For instance, the sub-pixel circuit PC may include seven thin-film transistors and one storage capacitor. The number of thin-film transistors and the number of storage capacitors can be varied depending on the design of the sub-pixel circuit PC.

[0268] Figure 23 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0269] refer to Figure 23 According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1 may include a display module 2 including a display panel, a processor 3, a memory 4, and a power module 5.

[0270] Processor 3 may include at least one of 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. In one embodiment, processor 3 may be functionally or structurally divided into two or more parts. For example, processor 3 may include a main processor in the form of a first driver chip containing a CPU and an auxiliary processor in the form of a second driver chip containing a controller configured to receive image signals from the main processor and process the image signals to conform to the interface specifications of display module 2. Processor 3 may include one or more processors. The one or more processors may execute the application individually, collectively, or as a subset of a collective. For example, two of the three processors may execute instructions together to execute the application.

[0271] The memory 4 may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. Data information for the operation of the processor 3 or the display module 2 may be stored in the memory 4. When the processor 3 executes the application stored in the memory 4, it may transmit image data signals and / or input control signals to the display module 2, and the display module 2 may process the received signals and output image information on the display screen.

[0272] The power module 5 may include a power supply module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module configured to convert the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power for the operation of the electronic device 1. The power conversion performed by the power conversion module may include direct current (DC) to DC conversion, alternating current (AC) to DC conversion, and DC to AC conversion, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0273] The electronic device 1 may further include an input module 6, a non-image output module 7, and / or a communication module 8.

[0274] Input module 6 can be configured to provide input information to processor 3 and / or display module 2. Input module 6 may include physical buttons, keyboard, microphone, and other sensor modules. Examples of sensor modules may include touch sensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, position sensors, digitizers, motion recognition sensors, camera sensors, light receiving sensors, photoelectric conversion sensors, temperature sensors, and biometric sensors such as blood pressure sensors, blood glucose sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, or heart rate sensors.

[0275] The non-image output module 7 can be configured to receive non-image information other than the image transmitted from the processor 3, and to provide such non-image information to the user. Examples of the non-image output module 7 may include an acoustic module, a tactile module, a light-emitting module, etc., and may include other functional modules specific to the electronic device (e.g., a cooling module for a refrigerator).

[0276] The communication module 8 may be a module responsible for transmitting and receiving information between the electronic device 1 and an external device, and may include a receiver and a transmitter. The communication module 8 may include, for example, a mobile communication module or a Wi-Fi module. ® Various wireless communication modules or Bluetooth modules, as well as various wired communication modules.

[0277] At least one of the components of electronic device 1 may be included in the display device according to the above embodiments. Furthermore, some of the individual modules functionally included in a single module may be included in the display device, and other modules may be provided separately from the display device. For example, the display device may include display module 2, and processor 3, memory 4, and power module 5 may be provided as other devices within electronic device 1 besides the display device. As an example, power module 5 may be provided within the display device and configured to supply power to processor 3 and memory 4 provided within electronic device 1 besides the display device; however, this disclosure is not limited to the above examples.

[0278] Figures 24 to 26 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figures 24 to 26 Examples of various electronic devices that apply a display device according to an embodiment are provided.

[0279] Figure 24 Examples of electronic devices include a smartphone 1_1a, a tablet PC 1_1b, a laptop computer 1_1c, a television (TV) 1_1d, and a desktop monitor 1_1e.

[0280] In addition to the display module 2, the smartphone 1_1a may include a communication module and an input module such as a touch sensor. The smartphone 1_1a can be configured to process information received through the communication module or the input module and display that information on the display module of the display device.

[0281] Similar to a smartphone 1_1a, a tablet PC 1_1b, a laptop computer 1_1c, a TV 1_1d, or a desktop monitor 1_1e may include a display module and an input module, and in some cases, may further include a communication module.

[0282] Figure 25 Examples of electronic devices including a display module applied to wearable electronic devices are shown. The wearable electronic device may be smart glasses 1_2a, a head-mounted display 1_2b, or a smartwatch 1_2c.

[0283] Each of the smart glasses 1_2a and the head-mounted display 1_2b may include a display module configured to display a display image and a reflector configured to provide the display image to the user's eyes by reflecting the display image, and may provide the user with virtual reality or augmented reality images through the display module and the reflector.

[0284] The smartwatch 1_2c may include a biometric sensor as an input device and may be configured to provide the user with biometric information identified by the biometric sensor via a display module.

[0285] Figure 26 Examples of electronic devices including a display module applied to a vehicle are shown. For example, electronic devices 1_3 can be applied to a car's dashboard, center instrument panel, etc., or can be applied to a center information display (CID) on a car's dashboard or an interior mirror display that replaces the side mirrors.

[0286] Although not illustrated, electronic devices using display devices according to embodiments may include screen-facing display devices such as billboards, electronic boards, or game consoles, as well as various household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, or robotic vacuum cleaners that display information via a display module. Additionally, when the display module has the function of transmitting light, it can be applied to electronic devices such as smart windows or transparent display devices that simultaneously display a background and an image. The types of electronic devices according to embodiments are not limited to those described above, and applications of various other electronic devices not described herein are also possible.

[0287] Therefore, electronic devices can provide clear images.

[0288] The method and apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to the embodiments are capable of precisely and securely attaching the curved portion of a covering member to a display panel.

[0289] The method and apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to the embodiments can provide uniform bonding quality across the entire surface of the covering member.

[0290] The method and apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to the embodiments can maintain uniform tension on the entire surface of the guide film during bonding.

[0291] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are to be considered in a descriptive sense only and are not intended to be limiting. Descriptions of features or aspects in each embodiment should generally be considered as other similar features or aspects that may be used in other embodiments. While one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, 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 defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for manufacturing a display device, the apparatus comprising: The first fixture has a first working surface; A clamping portion, spaced apart from the first clamp, is configured to clamp the guide membrane; The second clamp has a second working surface, configured to face the first working surface of the first clamp, and the second clamp is configured to hold a cover member having a curved edge. as well as A sensing unit is disposed on the clamping part, and the sensing unit is configured to measure the force applied to the guide membrane by the clamping part.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the clamping part comprises: A clamping element is configured to selectively clamp the guide film; A first clamping member drive unit is connected to the clamping member and configured to cause the clamping member to perform linear motion; A second clamping member drive unit is connected to the first clamping member drive unit and is configured to adjust the height of the clamping member; as well as A third clamping member drive unit is connected to the second clamping member drive unit and is configured to operate the clamping member.

3. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: The guide is configured to surround the periphery of the second clamp and selectively contact the guide membrane.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the portion of the guide that selectively contacts the guide membrane is rounded.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein the guide comprises: Bootstrapping framework; The first guide roller is rotatably mounted on the guide frame; as well as The second guide roller is disposed in the longitudinal direction of the first guide roller and the diagonal direction of the guide frame, and is rotatably disposed on the guide frame.

6. The device according to claim 3, further comprising: A guide drive is configured to connect the guide to the second clamp and cause the guide to perform lifting and lowering movements.

7. The device according to claim 3, further comprising: The stopper portion is spaced apart from the first clamp and selectively contacts the guide.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A clamp drive unit is connected to at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp, and is configured to cause the at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp to perform linear motion.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A heating element is disposed in at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

10. An apparatus for manufacturing a display device, the apparatus comprising: A first fixture, capable of performing linear motion and having a first working surface; A clamping portion, spaced apart from the first clamp, is configured to clamp a guide film, and a panel member is disposed on the guide film; A second clamp has a second working surface configured to face the first working surface of the first clamp, and the second clamp is configured to hold a cover member with a curved edge. The second clamp is capable of performing linear motion to engage the cover member with the panel member together with the first clamp. as well as A guide element is configured to surround the periphery of the second clamp and selectively contact the guide membrane. The guide is configured to contact the guide film before the cover member contacts the panel member, thereby changing the shape of the panel member.

11. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: A cover member is provided on the second clamp, and a guide film is fixed to the clamping part and the first clamp. The cover member has a curved edge, and a panel member and an adhesive layer are provided on the guide film. The guide is brought into contact with the guide film, causing the guide film, on which the panel member and the adhesive layer are disposed, to deform to correspond to one surface of the cover member; The force applied to at least two portions of the guide membrane is adjusted to be equal to a preset force; as well as The cover member is attached to the panel member by causing at least one of the first and second clamps to perform a linear movement.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Make the guide member contact the stop part.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: By causing the first clamp to perform a linear motion, a portion of the guide film, a portion of the panel component, and a portion of the adhesive layer are bent.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The force pulling the guide membrane is measured at each of the at least two portions of the guide membrane.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The space containing the first clamp and the second clamp is enclosed by the first chamber and the second chamber.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: The gas inside the space formed by the first chamber and the second chamber is discharged to the outside.

17. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The position of the panel member relative to the cover member.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first clamp moves together with the panel member.

19. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the portion of the guide that contacts the guide film is rounded.

20. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, further comprising: Heat at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp.

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