Electronic device and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

An electronic device and a method of manufacturing the electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes: a display panel; a window, in a plan view, including a perimeter comprising four straight edges and four corner edges, the four corner edges being arranged between the straight edges and connecting adjacent straight edges; a housing below the display panel and housing the display panel; a phase retardation layer on the window; a polarizer on the phase retardation layer, including a first layer, a second layer on the first layer, and a third layer on the second layer; and an adhesive layer between the window and the phase retardation layer to bond the window to the phase retardation layer. In the plan view, the side surface of the second layer includes a first side portion adjacent to the straight edges and a second side portion adjacent to the corner edges. The first side portion has a shape different from the shape of the second side portion.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0047214, filed on April 11, 2025, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] One or more embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic device and a method of manufacturing the same. For example, one or more embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic device with improved reliability. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of various display devices such as televisions, monitors, smartphones, and / or tablet computers, the technologies used to provide images to users have been continuously advancing. These display devices include one or more display panels that display images, and the display panels may include (for example,) liquid crystal display panels, organic light-emitting display panels, electrowetting display panels, or electrophoretic display panels.

[0004] Additionally, the display device may include a window to protect the display panel from external impacts or contamination. The window is manufactured using a laser-cutting process and then attached to the display panel, thus enhancing the durability and visibility of the display device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One or more aspects of embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic device including a window and a method of manufacturing the electronic device. Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, an electronic device includes: a display panel including an effective area and a peripheral area adjacent to the effective area; a window on the display panel (e.g., disposed on the display panel) and, if viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), including a periphery comprising four straight edges and four corner edges, the four corner edges being disposed between the four straight edges and connecting the four straight edges adjacent to each other; a housing below the display panel (e.g., disposed below the display panel) and housing the display panel; a phase retardation layer on the window (e.g., disposed on the window); a polarizer on the phase retardation layer (e.g., disposed on the phase retardation layer) and comprising a plurality of layers; and an adhesive layer between the window and the phase retardation layer (e.g., disposed between the window and the phase retardation layer) to bond the window to the phase retardation layer. The layers (i.e., the plurality of layers) include a first layer, a second layer on the first layer (e.g., arranged on the first layer), and a third layer on the second layer (e.g., arranged on the second layer). If viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), the side surface of the second layer includes a first side portion adjacent to four straight edges and a second side portion adjacent to four corner edges, and the first side portion has a shape different from that of the second side portion.

[0007] The side surface of the second layer protrudes beyond the side surfaces of the first and third layers in the direction away from the effective area.

[0008] The side surfaces of the second layer have curved surfaces.

[0009] The second side includes a bent section that bends toward the third layer.

[0010] The bent portion is arranged on the same plane as at least a portion of the third layer.

[0011] The end of the bend includes a curved surface.

[0012] The adhesive layer includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the polarizing plate further includes a polarizing layer between the first layer and the second layer (e.g., disposed between the first layer and the second layer), and the polarizing layer includes polyvinyl alcohol.

[0014] The polarizing plate includes a triacetyl cellulose layer (first layer), a polyolefin film on the triacetyl cellulose layer (e.g., disposed on the triacetyl cellulose layer) (second layer), and a protective film on the polyolefin film (e.g., disposed on the polyolefin film) (third layer), and the side surface of the polyolefin film adjacent to each of the four straight edges is different if viewed in cross-section (e.g., when viewed in cross-section) from the side surface of the polyolefin film adjacent to the four corner edges (e.g., different in shape).

[0015] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a method of manufacturing an electronic device is provided. The method of manufacturing the electronic device includes: providing a display panel; providing a window, the window including a first region and a second region, wherein, when viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), the second region surrounds the edge of the first region (e.g., around the edge of the first region) and includes a periphery comprising four straight edges and four corner edges, wherein, when viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), the four corner edges are arranged between the four straight edges and connect adjacent straight edges; sequentially disposing an adhesive layer and an optical layer on the window to form a preliminary window module; cutting the preliminary window module to form a window module; and bonding the display panel to the window module. The step of cutting the preliminary window module to form the window module includes: performing a first irradiation operation to irradiate a first laser beam along a first irradiation line defined along the second region; performing a second irradiation operation to irradiate a second laser beam along the second irradiation line defined along the second region; and performing a third irradiation operation to irradiate a third laser beam along a third irradiation line defined along the second region. At least one of the first, second, and third irradiation lines is selected, including a portion that is separate from the other irradiation lines, and if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), the separated portion overlaps with each of the four corner sides.

[0016] If viewed in a plane (for example, when viewed in a plane), the separation distance between the separated portion and other irradiations varies according to the curvature of the four corner sides.

[0017] A second irradiation operation is performed after the first irradiation operation, and a third irradiation operation is performed after the second irradiation operation. The power of the second laser beam is less than the power of the first laser beam, and the power of the third laser beam is less than the power of the second laser beam.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the second irradiation line is positioned further away from the first irradiation line than the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the second irradiation line is positioned closer to the first region than the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the second irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line is positioned further away from the first irradiation line than the first irradiation line in the first region.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the second irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line is positioned closer to the first region than the first irradiation line.

[0022] The optical layer includes a phase retardation layer, a triacetyl cellulose layer on the phase retardation layer (e.g., disposed on the phase retardation layer), a polyolefin film on the triacetyl cellulose layer (e.g., disposed on the triacetyl cellulose layer), and a protective film on the polyolefin film (e.g., disposed on the polyolefin film), and a first depth reached by the first laser beam is greater than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the upper surface of the polyolefin film.

[0023] A portion of the triacetylcellulose layer is vaporized by the energy of the first laser beam, and a protrusion is formed in the polyolefin film due to the gas generated by the vaporization of said portion of the triacetylcellulose layer.

[0024] The second depth reached by the second laser beam is greater than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the upper surface of the phase delay layer.

[0025] The third depth reached by the third laser beam is less than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the lower surface of the adhesive layer.

[0026] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, since the laser beam with gradually decreasing power is irradiated multiple times at the same location in the laser cutting process for windows, the power of the laser beam can be easily controlled or selected, and damage to the window and cracks in the polarizer can be reduced or prevented.

[0027] In addition, because the laser irradiation position is partially shifted to disperse the power of the laser beam in the corner region of the window, the process difference between the linear region and the corner region is reduced, and the process accuracy is improved by more uniform cutting.

[0028] For example, embodiments of this disclosure provide an integrated method in which the structural configuration of a window module (including a window, an adhesive layer, a phase retardation layer, and a multilayer polarizer) is coordinated with a laser-based cutting process employing multiple irradiation operations with controlled power and positional offset. This combination enables precise edge formation in both linear and corner regions, minimizing or reducing thermal stress and reducing the likelihood of cracks or delamination in the polarizer and adhesive layer. By controlling the residual adhesive thickness and differentiating the sides of the polarizer in linear and corner regions, the disclosed device achieves improved durability, optical performance, and manufacturability. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. The above and other aspects and features of the disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the electronic device shown; Figure 6 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the display panel shown; Figure 7 This is a plan view of a window according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 8A It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the window module intercepted by line I-I'; Figure 8B It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 A sectional view of the window module intercepted by line II-II'; Figure 9A It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the window module intercepted by line I-I'; Figure 9B It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 A sectional view of the window module intercepted by line II-II'; Figure 10A This is a plan view of a window module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 10B to 10I This is a cross-sectional view of a process for manufacturing an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 11A to 11CThis is a cross-sectional view of a process for manufacturing an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 12A and Figure 12B Each is a plan view of a window module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 13A to 13D Each is a schematic diagram illustrating the spacing relationship between illumination lines according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the spacing of illumination lines in a corner region of a window according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments of this disclosure can be modified and implemented in many different forms, and therefore specific embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in more detail below. However, this disclosure should not be limited to the specific forms disclosed and should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions contained within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0031] In this disclosure, it will be understood that if an element (or region, layer, or portion) is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element or layer (e.g., when an element (or region, layer, or portion) is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element or layer), then that element (or region, layer, or portion) may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be between them. Conversely, "directly on" may mean that there is no additional intervening element or layer between the element or layer and the other element or layer. Additionally, if a layer, film, region, and / or plate, etc., is referred to as being "below" or "under" another portion (e.g., when a film, region, and / or plate, etc., is referred to as being "below" or "under" another portion), then it may be "directly below" said other portion, or one or more intervening layers may be between them. Furthermore, if an element is described as being arranged "on" another element (e.g., when an element is described as being arranged "on" another element), that element may be arranged below the other element. For example, as used herein, "on" or "above" indicates a vertical placement relationship and may include an intervening layer unless stated as "directly on". "Below" or "beneath" is the opposite of "on" or "above". "Directly on" and "directly below" do not include an intervening layer.

[0032] Throughout this publication, the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and for the sake of brevity, repeated descriptions may be omitted. In the drawings, for the purpose of effectively describing the technical content, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of components may be exaggerated or reduced. As used herein, the terms "and / or" or "or" can include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] It will be understood that although the terms “first” and / or “second”, etc., may be used herein to describe one or more suitable elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a first element discussed herein may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are also intended to include the plural forms. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of “may” indicates “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.”

[0034] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “above,” and / or “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0035] It will also be understood that if the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and / or “having” and variations thereof are used in this disclosure (e.g., when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and / or “having” and variations thereof are used in this disclosure), it indicates the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or other similar terms include or support the terms “consisting of” and “substantially consisting of”, indicating the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, parts (parts), and / or components, while other features, numbers, steps, operations, parts (parts), components, and / or groups thereof are absent or substantially absent.

[0036] In this disclosure, if an element is referred to as being “directly connected” to another element (e.g., when an element is referred to as being “directly connected” to another element), then there is no intermediary element between the layer, membrane region, or substrate and the other layer, membrane, region, or substrate. For example, the term “directly connected” can mean that two layers or two components are arranged without the use of additional adhesives between them.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that terms such as those defined in general dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense, unless expressly defined herein.

[0038] In the following description, an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 An electronic device EA may include a display module DM, a processor PR, a memory MR, and a power module PM.

[0041] The processor PR may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor, an image signal processor, and a controller.

[0042] The memory (MR) can store data information desired or required by the processor (PR) or the display module (DM) for operation. When the processor (PR) executes the application stored in the memory (MR), image data signals and / or input control signals can be sent to the display module (DM), and the display module (DM) can process the received signals to output image information through the display screen. The display module (DM) may include a display panel for displaying images.

[0043] The power module (PM) may include a power conversion module. The power conversion module can convert power supplied by a power module, such as a power adapter or battery device, to produce the power desired or required for the operation of the electronic device (EA).

[0044] At least one of the components of the electronic device EA (e.g., at least one selected from the components of the electronic device EA) may be included in a display module according to one or more embodiments described later, and the electronic device may include a display module according to one or more embodiments. Additionally, among the various modules functionally included within a single module, some modules may be included in the display device, while others may be provided separately from the display device. For example, in one or more embodiments, the display device may include a display module DM, and the processor PR, memory MR, and power module PM may be provided as separate devices within the electronic device EA, rather than being included in the display device.

[0045] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] Reference Figure 2 The one or more suitable electronic devices that apply the display module according to one or more embodiments may include not only electronic devices for displaying images (such as smartphones EA_1a, tablet PCs EA_1b, laptops EA_1c, televisions EA_1d and / or desktop monitors EA_1e, etc.), but also wearable electronic devices (such as smart glasses EA_2a, head-mounted displays EA_2b and / or smartwatches EA_2c, etc.) and in-vehicle electronic devices EA_3 (such as dashboards, central dashboards, central information displays (CIDs) mounted on dashboards and / or interior mirror displays, etc.).

[0047] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] Reference Figure 3 In one or more embodiments, the electronic device EA may have a long side extending parallel to a first direction DR1 and a short side extending parallel to a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, this is merely an example, and the electronic device EA may alternatively have sides of equal length in both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 (e.g., simultaneously in both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2).

[0049] In the following text, the direction substantially orthogonal (e.g., perpendicular) to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is referred to as the third direction DR3. In the following description, the expressions "if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane)" or "in a plan view" may indicate the state of viewing along the third direction DR3. The expressions "viewed in a section" or "in a sectional view" may indicate the state of viewing from the side.

[0050] The front surface of the electronic device EA can be defined as a display surface DS, and can include a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the electronic device EA can be provided to the user through the display surface DS.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4The display surface DS may include an active area AA and a peripheral area NDA. The active area AA can be activated in response to an electrical signal. For example, an image IM can be displayed through the active area AA, and an external input TC can be sensed within the active area AA. The active area AA may be superimposed on at least a portion of a transmission area TA. Thus, a user can view the image IM or receive the external input TC through the transmission area TA. However, this is merely an example; the area displaying the image IM and the area sensing the external input TC may be separated from each other within the active area AA, and they should not be specifically limited.

[0052] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The peripheral region NDA can be defined as being adjacent to the active region AA. For example, the peripheral region NDA can surround the active region AA. The drive circuitry and / or drive lines for driving the active region AA can be arranged in the peripheral region NDA. The peripheral region NDA can be superimposed on at least a portion of the border region BZA, and the border region BZA can prevent or reduce the visibility of components arranged in the peripheral region NDA from the outside.

[0053] An electronic device EA can sense an external input TC applied from outside the electronic device EA. For example, the electronic device EA can sense a first input generated by the external input TC and a second input generated by a stylus PEN. The first input generated by the external input TC can include one or more suitable forms of input (such as a part of the user's body, light, heat and / or pressure, etc.). The stylus PEN can be an active pen or an electromagnetic pen; however, it should not be limited to or restricted by this. The stylus PEN can be defined as an input device, and the effective area AA can provide the user with a sensing area capable of sensing input in addition to displaying an image.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the electronic device EA can be a large electronic device such as a television, monitor, and / or billboard. In one or more embodiments, the electronic device EA can be a small or medium-sized electronic device (such as a personal computer, laptop computer, personal digital assistant, car navigation unit, gaming unit, smartphone, tablet computer, and / or camera, etc.). However, these are merely examples, and the electronic device EA can be applied to other electronic devices as long as they do not depart from the concept of this disclosure.

[0055] Reference Figure 4 In one or more embodiments, the electronic device EA may include a window module WM, a display module DM, and a housing HAU. The window module WM and the housing HAU may be combined with each other to provide the appearance of the electronic device EA and to protect the display module DM.

[0056] The window module WM may include a transmissive region TA and a border region BZA. The transmissive region TA may be an optically transparent region. In one or more embodiments, the transmissive region TA may be a region with a visible light transmittance of about 90% or higher.

[0057] The border region BZA may be a region with a relatively lower transmittance than the transmittance of the transmittance region TA. The border region BZA may define the shape of the transmittance region TA. The border region BZA may be arranged adjacent to and around the transmittance region TA. However, this is merely an example; in one or more embodiments, the border region BZA of the window module WM may be adjacent only to one side of the transmittance region TA, or may not be provided from the window module WM. In one or more embodiments, the window module WM may include at least one functional layer selected from an anti-fingerprint layer, a hard coating layer, and an anti-reflective layer, and should not be specifically limited thereto.

[0058] The display module DM can be arranged below the window module WM. The display module DM can be configured to essentially generate an image IM. The image IM can include video and still images. The image IM generated by the display module DM can be displayed through the display surface DS of the display module DM and can be viewed by the user through the transmission area TA.

[0059] The housing HAU can be positioned below the display module DM. The housing HAU can be combined with the window module WM. The combined housing HAU and window module WM provide internal space. The display module DM can be housed within this internal space.

[0060] The housing HAU can comprise materials with relatively high rigidity. For example, the housing HAU can comprise glass, plastic (e.g., polymer materials), or metal, or can comprise multiple frames and / or plates formed from any combination of these materials. The housing HAU can reliably protect the components of the electronic device EA housed within the internal space from external impacts.

[0061] Figure 5 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the electronic device shown. Figure 6 According to one or more embodiments Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the display panel shown is illustrated below. Reference will be made to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 One or more embodiments of this disclosure are described.

[0062] Reference Figure 5In one or more embodiments, the electronic device EA may include an effective area AA and a peripheral area NDA adjacent to the effective area AA, and may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP, a window module WM, a panel protective film PPF, and a first adhesive layer AL1 and a second adhesive layer AL2.

[0063] Display panel DP can be a light-emitting (type) display panel. In one or more embodiments, display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of an organic light-emitting display panel can include organic light-emitting materials. The light-emitting layer of an inorganic light-emitting display panel can include quantum dots or quantum rods. In the following, an organic light-emitting display panel will be described as a representative example of display panel DP.

[0064] Reference Figure 6 The display panel DP may include a substrate layer BS, a circuit element layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OLED, and a thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. The circuit element layer DP-CL, the display element layer DP-OLED, and the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may be arranged sequentially on the substrate layer BS, for example, in the order stated. Additionally, the display panel DP may include an effective region AA and a peripheral region NDA adjacent to the effective region AA, and the effective region may be a region superimposed on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0065] The substrate layer BS may include glass materials or flexible plastic materials such as polyimide (PI).

[0066] Multiple pixels can be arranged in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. Each pixel may include a transistor arranged in the circuit element layer DP-CL and a light-emitting element arranged in the display element layer DP-OLED and connected to the transistor.

[0067] A thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) can be disposed on the circuit element layer (DP-CL) to cover the display element layer (DP-OLED). The TFE can protect the pixels from moisture, oxygen, and foreign matter. In one or more embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can cover the entire area of ​​the substrate layer BS; however, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto, and in one or more embodiments, the substrate layer BS may include some areas exposed and not covered by the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. According to one or more embodiments, the areas exposed and not covered by the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may be formed along the edge of the substrate layer BS; however, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto or thereby restricted.

[0068] Reference Figure 5The input sensing unit ISP can be disposed on the display panel DP. In one or more embodiments, the input sensing unit ISP may include multiple sensing portions to sense external input via capacitive methods. When manufacturing the electronic device EA, the input sensing unit ISP can be directly fabricated on the display panel DP. More specifically, the conductive patterns and / or insulating layers forming the input sensing unit ISP can be directly disposed or patterned on the display panel DP; however, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto or thereby restricted. According to one or more embodiments, the input sensing unit ISP can be attached to the display panel DP via an adhesive layer after being manufactured separately from the display panel DP.

[0069] The window module WM can include the optical layer RPL and the window WIN. Figure 5 The window module WM shown can be used with Figure 4 The window module corresponds to WM.

[0070] An optical layer RPL can be disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. The optical layer RPL can reduce the reflectivity of the electronic device EA relative to external light incident on the electronic device EA from the outside, thereby improving the visibility of the image displayed through the electronic device EA. The optical layer RPL may include a retarder (e.g., a phase retardation layer), a polarizer, a black matrix, and / or a color filter, etc.; however, embodiments of this disclosure are not specifically limited thereto. The optical layer RPL can be formed directly on the input sensing unit ISP by a coating or deposition process, or it can be attached to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer after being shaped into a film.

[0071] The window (WIN) can be disposed on the optical layer (RPL). The window protects the display panel (DP), input sensing unit (ISP), and optical layer (RPL) from external scratches and impacts. The window may include an optically transparent insulating material. For example, the window may include glass or plastic.

[0072] A panel protective film (PPF) can be disposed below the display panel (DP). The panel protective film (PPF) can support the display panel (DP) and protect the lower part of the display panel (DP). The panel protective film (PPF) can have insulating properties. For example, in one or more embodiments, the panel protective film (PPF) may comprise resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and / or polypropylene (PP); however, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto or thereby.

[0073] The first adhesive layer AL1 can be disposed between the display panel DP and the panel protective film PPF, and the display panel DP and the panel protective film PPF can be bonded to each other through the first adhesive layer AL1. The second adhesive layer AL2 can be disposed between the window WIN and the optical layer RPL, and the window WIN and the optical layer RPL can be bonded to each other through the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0074] Figure 7 This is a plan view of a window according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8A It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view of the window module intercepted by line I-I'. Figure 8B It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 The sectional view of the window module cut off by line II-II'. Figure 8A It is a sectional view of the linear area of ​​the window, and Figure 8B This is a cross-sectional view of the corner area of ​​the window.

[0075] In the following description, if viewed in a plane (i.e., in a plan view), the corner area of ​​window WIN represents the area where the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3 and CE4 of window WIN are located, and if viewed in a plane (i.e., when viewed in a plan view), the linear area of ​​window WIN represents the area where the straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3 and SE4 of window WIN are located.

[0076] Reference Figure 7 If viewed in a plane (in a plan view), window WIN may include a perimeter comprising four straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3, and SE4, and four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4. The four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 may be arranged between the straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3, and SE4, and each of the four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 may connect adjacent straight edges. In other words, corner edge CE1 may be arranged between straight edges SE1 and SE4 and connect straight edges SE1 and SE4; corner edge CE2 may be arranged between straight edges SE1 and SE2 and connect straight edges SE1 and SE2; corner edge CE3 may be arranged between straight edges SE2 and SE3 and connect straight edges SE2 and SE3; and corner edge CE4 may be arranged between straight edges SE3 and SE4 and connect straight edges SE3 and SE4.

[0077] If viewed in a plane (for example, when viewed in a plane), the four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 can have curvature. Therefore, the perimeter of the window WIN can have rounded corners instead of sharp corners.

[0078] Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8B The window module WM may include the window WIN, the adhesive layer PSA1, and the optical layer RPL. For ease of explanation, Figure 8A and Figure 8B Both views show partial cross-sectional views of the rear surface WIN-BS of window WIN oriented upwards. The rear surface WIN-BS of window WIN can be connected to the display panel DP (see reference). Figure 5 The front surface of window WIN (WIN-US) is opposite to (e.g., facing the display panel DP), and the front surface WIN-US of window WIN can be the opposite surface to the rear surface WIN-BS. The front surface WIN-US of window WIN can be the same as the electronic device EA (see reference). Figure 3 The display surface DS (refer to) Figure 3 (Corresponding to). For example, Figure 8A and Figure 8B The window module WM shown can be rotated 180 degrees and then integrated into the display panel DP. In the following text, "upward" indicates... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The third party in the description is in the opposite direction to DR3.

[0079] The window WIN may include a first region AR1 and a second region AR2, which, when viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), surrounds the edge of the first region AR1 (e.g., around the edge of the first region AR1). In this respect, after the window module WM is integrated into the display panel DP, the first region AR1 and the second region AR2 can be respectively associated with… Figure 4 The effective region AA and the peripheral region NDA shown in the figure correspond to each other.

[0080] The optical layer RPL can be disposed above the rear surface WIN-BS of the window WIN (e.g., disposed on the rear surface WIN-BS of the window WIN). The optical layer RPL may include a phase retardation layer RFL and a polarizer PP disposed on the phase retardation layer RFL.

[0081] A phase retardation layer (RFL) can delay the phase of light supplied from a display panel (DP). In one or more embodiments, the RFL can delay the phase of the incident light by λ / 4. The RFL exhibits optical anisotropy and can alter the polarization state of the incident light. For example, light supplied to the RFL via a polarizer (PP) can be converted from a linearly polarized state to a circularly polarized state, or light supplied in a circularly polarized state can be converted to a linearly polarized state.

[0082] although Figure 8A and Figure 8BAll embodiments of the present disclosure show a single-layer structure for the phase retardation layer (RFL), but the embodiments herein are not limited to this or by it. For example, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the phase retardation layer (RFL) may be formed of multiple layers. For example, in one or more embodiments, the phase retardation layer (RFL) may have a stacked structure including a λ / 4 phase retardation layer and a λ / 2 phase retardation layer. In these embodiments, the λ / 4 phase retardation layer can convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light, and the λ / 2 phase retardation layer can adjust the polarization direction of the circularly polarized light.

[0083] The adhesive layer PSA1 can be disposed between the window WIN and the optical layer RPL. In this respect, the adhesive layer PSA1 can be combined with... Figure 5 The second adhesive layer AL2 shown corresponds to this. The window WIN and the optical layer RPL can be attached to each other via the adhesive layer PSA1. The adhesive layer PSA1 may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0084] Figure 8A and Figure 8B All examples illustrate a structure in which the side surface of the adhesive layer PSA1 is orthogonal (e.g., perpendicular) to the rear surface WIN-BS of the window WIN; however, this is merely an example, and embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto or thereby restricted. For example, in one or more embodiments, the side surface of the adhesive layer PSA1 may include a stepped portion relative to the side surface of the window WIN.

[0085] The polarizing plate PP according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include multiple layers. For example, in one or more embodiments, the polarizing plate PP may include a first layer TAC, a second layer COP, an adhesive member PSA2, and a third layer PF stacked sequentially in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3. However, this is merely an example, and the number of layers constituting the polarizing plate PP may be modified in one or more suitable ways and should not be particularly limited.

[0086] The first TAC layer can be an organic layer. The first TAC layer can be a film. The first TAC layer can be optically transparent. For example, in one or more embodiments, the first TAC layer can be a triacetyl cellulose layer. The first TAC layer can serve as a protective layer. The first TAC layer can protect the polarizing layer PL disposed thereon from external impacts. In one or more embodiments, an adhesive layer can be additionally disposed between the phase retardation layer RFL and the first TAC layer.

[0087] The second COP layer can be an organic layer. The second COP layer can be a film. The second COP layer can be optically transparent. The second COP layer can be used as a protective layer. For example, in one or more embodiments, the second COP layer can be a polyolefin film.

[0088] The third PF layer can be an organic layer. The third PF layer can be a film. The third PF layer can be optically transparent. The third PF layer can serve as a protective layer. The third PF layer can be disposed above the second COP layer (e.g., on top of the second COP layer) and can protect the second COP layer from external impacts or scratches. Additionally, the third PF layer can prevent or reduce the reflection of external light.

[0089] In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the polarizing plate PP may further include a polarizing layer PL containing a polarizer. The polarizing layer PL may be disposed between the first TAC layer and the second COP layer. The polarizing layer PL may be an optical layer that linearly polarizes incident light in a specific direction and may be used as a linear polarizer. The polarizing layer PL may be formed as a film-type (type) linear polarizer comprising a stretched polymer film. For example, in one or more embodiments, the stretched polymer film may be a stretched polyvinyl alcohol film. The polarizing layer PL may be disposed below the second COP layer and may be protected from external impacts or scratches. However, in one or more embodiments, the polarizing layer PL may not be provided.

[0090] The adhesive component PSA2 can be disposed between the second COP layer and the third PF layer. The second COP layer and the third PF layer can be bonded to each other through the adhesive component PSA2. The adhesive component PSA2 may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0091] The second layer of COP can have side surfaces with different shapes depending on its location.

[0092] For more details, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 8A In one or more embodiments, the second layer COP may include a first side portion CSP1 protruding toward the straight edge SE of the window WIN. For example, the first side portion CSP1 may protrude beyond the side surfaces of the first layer TAC and the third layer PF in a direction away from the first region AR1. This structure can be formed because, in the window module cutting process described later, the intensity of the laser beam irradiated in the second laser irradiation operation following the first laser irradiation operation is lower than the intensity of the laser beam irradiated in the first laser irradiation operation. Due to this structure, focus adjustment of the laser beam can be facilitated, and the thermal effects applied to the layers disposed below the first layer TAC during the laser cutting process can be minimized or reduced. Furthermore, because the protrusion PU (refer to...) Figure 10C The dummy part DPA is formed on the side surface of the polarizing plate PP, so it can be easily removed by mechanical means (see reference). Figure 10G Therefore, unnecessary residue can be reduced, and cutting accuracy can be improved.

[0093] Additionally, with the second side CSP2 (refer to...) Figure 8BUnlike other materials, the first side portion CSP1 may not include (e.g., may exclude) a bend extending toward the upper surface of the polarizing plate PP. For example, if viewed in cross-section (e.g., when viewed in cross-section), the first side portion CSP1 may not overlap with the side surface of the third layer PF disposed on the second layer COP.

[0094] Reference Figure 8B In one or more embodiments, the second layer COP may include a second side portion CSP2 projecting toward the corner edge CE of the window WIN. For example, the second side portion CSP2 may project beyond the side surfaces of the first layer TAC and the third layer PF in a direction away from the first region AR1. The second side portion CSP2 may include a bent portion BP bending in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3. In this respect, the bent portion BP may be arranged in a plane substantially the same as at least a portion of the third layer PF. If viewed in the plane (e.g., when viewed in the plane), the bent portion BP may overlap with the peripheral region NDA.

[0095] Figure 9A It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view of the window module intercepted by line I-I'. Figure 9B It is according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure along Figure 7 The sectional view of the window module cut off by line II-II'. Figure 9A It is a sectional view of the linear area of ​​the window, and Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view of the corner area of ​​the window. Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the figures, the same / similar reference numerals indicate Figure 7 , Figure 8A and Figure 8B The same / similar elements shown are not included here; therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same / similar elements will not be provided.

[0096] Reference Figure 9A In one or more embodiments, the first side portion CSP11 of the second layer COP may include a curved surface CP. The curved surface CP can be formed when the first layer TAC disposed beneath the second layer COP expands due to laser beam irradiation during the window module cutting process, as will be described later. Because the first side portion CSP11 has a curved structure, the concentration of thermal stress at specific locations during the laser cutting process can be mitigated, and thermal damage to the layers disposed beneath the second layer COP can be reduced.

[0097] Reference Figure 9BIn one or more embodiments, the second side portion CSP21 may include a bent portion BP1 that bends in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3, and the bent portion BP1 may include a curved surface. Because the bent portion BP1 includes a curved structure, it can reduce the concentration of thermal stress at specific locations during the laser cutting process and can reduce thermal damage to the layer disposed below the second layer COP.

[0098] Figure 10A This is a plan view of a window module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 10B to 10I This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process for manufacturing an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 10B to 10I The diagram illustrates the pair along one or more embodiments. Figure 7 The laser cutting process is performed on the window module with line I-I' cutting. In the following text, Figures 10A to 10I In the figures, the same / similar reference numerals indicate Figures 7 to 9B The same / similar elements shown are not included here; therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same / similar elements will not be provided.

[0099] Reference Figures 10A to 10I A preliminary window module (WM) can be formed by cutting a preliminary window module. The preliminary window module may have a structure in which the window (WIN), adhesive layer (PSA1), and optical layer (RPL) are sequentially stacked. If viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), the window (WIN) may include a first region (AR1) and a second region (AR2) surrounding the edge of the first region (AR1). In the presented embodiment, for ease of explanation, the edges of each of the first region (AR1) and the second region (AR2) are shown with solid lines. The preliminary window module can be cut using a laser beam. The operation of cutting the preliminary window module may include a first illumination operation, a second illumination operation, and a third illumination operation. In the presented embodiment, for ease of explanation, imaginary illumination lines CL1, CL2, and / or CL3 are all depicted as dashed lines. Additionally, Figure 10A The positions and shapes of the first to third irradiation lines are schematically shown, and the spacing between the irradiation lines is not shown.

[0100] Figure 10B The first illumination operation, in which the first laser beam LB1 is irradiated onto the preliminary window module, is shown.

[0101] Reference Figure 10A and Figure 10BA first laser beam LB1 can be irradiated from the laser irradiation unit LS along a first irradiation line CL1. The first irradiation line CL1 can be defined along a second region AR2, and the first laser beam LB1 can irradiate along the second region AR2 while being spaced and / or separated from the first region AR1 (e.g., spaced apart or separated). If viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), the portions of the first irradiation line CL1 adjacent to the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 of the window WIN can have curvature. However, the shape of the first irradiation line CL1 is not limited to this or thus, and can be modified in one or more suitable ways.

[0102] The first depth RD1 reached by the first laser beam LB1 can be greater than the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the upper surface of the second layer COP. In this respect, the first depth RD1 can represent the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the end LE1 of the first irradiation line CL1 (e.g., on the third direction DR3). More specifically, the first laser beam LB1 can reach the interior of the second layer COP from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the first depth RD1 after passing through the upper surface of the second layer COP. The first depth RD1 can be at least the depth to which the second layer COP is not penetrated.

[0103] When the first laser beam LB1 irradiates the preliminary window module, deformation may occur in the region of the preliminary window module that absorbs the first laser beam LB1 (hereinafter referred to as the first deformation region DFA1). Figure 10B In the diagram, for ease of illustration, the first deformable region DFA1 is shown in shaded. The deformation caused by the first laser beam LB1 can include changes in state such as melting. In this respect, when viewed in cross-section, the first deformable region DFA1 can have a width that decreases in the thickness direction as the distance from the laser irradiation unit LS increases. In the initial window module, this deformation can occur most extensively in the portion where the first laser beam LB1 is first incident and thus exposed for a longer time / period, and the deformation can occur narrowest in the portion where the first laser beam LB1 is last arrived and thus exposed for a relatively shorter time / period. Therefore, if viewed in cross-section (e.g., when viewed in cross-section), the first deformable region DFA1 can have an inverted conical shape. The width of the first deformable region DFA1 in the cross-section can vary along the thickness direction. However, the shape of the first deformable region DFA1 is not limited to this or thus restricted.

[0104] Reference Figure 10B and Figure 10C The first deformed region DFA1 can be removed by performing a first irradiation operation on the initial window module.

[0105] Furthermore, during the first irradiation operation, because the second layer COP has relatively high transmittance, even if the first laser beam LB1 does not directly reach the first layer TAC, the residual energy of the first laser beam LB1 can be absorbed by the first layer TAC, and a portion of the PA region of the first layer TAC can be vaporized. The internal pressure between the first layer TAC and the second layer COP may locally increase due to the gas (or gaseous substance) generated by the vaporization of the PA region of the first layer TAC, thus potentially causing deformation such as expansion of a portion of the first layer TAC. Therefore, a protrusion PU can be formed in the second layer COP, and an empty space SPA can be formed between the first layer TAC and the second layer COP. The size and shape of the protrusion PU can vary depending on the irradiation conditions of the first laser beam LB1 and the physical properties of the first layer TAC and the second layer COP. The protrusion PU may include a curved surface.

[0106] Figure 10D The second illumination operation, in which the second laser beam LB2 is irradiated onto the preliminary window module, is shown.

[0107] Reference Figure 10A and Figure 10D A second laser beam LB2 can be irradiated from the laser irradiation unit LS along the second irradiation line CL2. The second irradiation line CL2 can be defined along the second region AR2, and the second laser beam LB2 can irradiate along the second region AR2 while being spaced and / or separated from the first region AR1 (e.g., spaced apart or separated). When viewed in a plane, the portions of the second irradiation line CL2 adjacent to the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 of the window WIN can have curvature. However, the shape of the second irradiation line CL2 is not limited to this or thus, and can be modified in one or more suitable ways.

[0108] The second depth RD2 reached by the second laser beam LB2 can be greater than the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the upper surface of the phase retardation layer RFL. In this respect, the second depth RD2 can refer to the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the end LE2 of the second irradiation line CL2 (e.g., on the third direction DR3). More specifically, the second laser beam LB2 can reach the second depth RD2 from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the interior of the phase retardation layer RFL after passing through the upper surface of the phase retardation layer RFL. The second depth RD2 can be a depth that at least does not reach the adhesive layer PSA1.

[0109] When the second laser beam LB2 irradiates the preliminary window module, deformation may occur in the region of the preliminary window module that absorbs the second laser beam LB2 (hereinafter referred to as the second deformation region DFA2). Figure 10DIn the illustration, the second deformed region DFA2 is shown in shaded form. The deformation induced by the second laser beam LB2 can include changes in state such as melting. In the presented embodiment, the second deformed region DFA2 can be formed having a shape extending from the removed first deformed region DFA1. However, this is merely an example, and the second deformed region DFA2 can have one or more suitable shapes depending on the irradiation conditions of the second laser beam LB2, and there are no specific limitations.

[0110] When viewed in cross-section (e.g., when viewed in cross-section), the second deformable region DFA2 can have a width that decreases in the thickness direction as the distance from the laser irradiation unit LS increases. Therefore, the second deformable region DFA2 can have a shape that narrows downwards in the cross-section. Furthermore, the width of the second deformable region DFA2 in the cross-section can vary along the thickness direction. However, the shape of the second deformable region DFA2 is not limited to this or thus restricted.

[0111] A second irradiation operation can be performed after the first irradiation operation. The first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2 can both be laser beams irradiated from the same laser irradiation unit LS. After cutting a portion of the preliminary window module by irradiating the first laser beam LB1, another portion of the preliminary window module can be cut by irradiating the second laser beam LB2. In this respect, the power of the second laser beam LB2 can be less than the power of the first laser beam LB1. When the power of the second laser beam LB2 is set to be less than the power of the first laser beam LB1, the impact applied to the optical layer RPL, which is relatively close to the window WIN, can be reduced.

[0112] Reference Figure 10D and Figure 10E The second deformed region DFA2 can be removed by a second irradiation operation performed on the initial window module. After the second irradiation operation, the end PE of the processed area of ​​the second layer COP can be formed with a curved surface. As the heat generated by the second laser beam LB2 is locally applied to the protrusion PU formed in the second layer COP as described above, melting or vaporization may occur, thereby causing cutting. As a result, the end PE of the final processed area can have a curved surface.

[0113] Reference Figure 10A and Figure 10FA third laser beam LB3 can be irradiated from the laser irradiation unit LS along the third irradiation line CL3. The third irradiation line CL3 can be defined along the second region AR2, and the third laser beam LB3 can irradiate along the second region AR2 while being spaced and / or separated from the first region AR1 (e.g., spaced apart and / or separated). When viewed in a plane, the portions of the third irradiation line CL3 adjacent to the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 of the window WIN can have curvature. However, the shape of the third irradiation line CL3 is not limited to this or thus, and can be modified in one or more suitable ways.

[0114] The third depth RD3 reached by the third laser beam LB3 can be less than the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the lower surface of the adhesive layer PSA1. In this respect, the third depth RD3 can represent the distance from the upper surface of the optical layer RPL to the end LE3 of the third irradiation line CL3 (e.g., on the third direction DR3). More specifically, the third laser beam LB3 can reach the interior of the adhesive layer PSA1 to the third depth RD3 after passing through the upper surface of the adhesive layer PSA1. The third depth RD3 can be a depth that at least does not reach the window WIN.

[0115] When the third laser beam LB3 irradiates the preliminary window module, deformation may occur in the area of ​​the preliminary window module where the third laser beam LB3 is absorbed (hereinafter referred to as the third deformation region DFA3). Figure 10F In the illustration, the third deformation region DFA3 is shown in shaded form. The deformation induced by the third laser beam LB3 can include changes in state such as melting. In the presented embodiment, the third deformation region DFA3 can be formed with a shape extending from the removed second deformation region DFA2. However, this is merely an example, and the third deformation region DFA3 can have one or more suitable shapes depending on the irradiation conditions of the third laser beam LB3, and there are no specific limitations.

[0116] When viewed in cross-section (e.g., when viewed in cross-section), the third deformable region DFA3 can have a width that decreases in the thickness direction as the distance from the laser irradiation unit LS increases. Therefore, the third deformable region DFA3 can have a shape that narrows downwards in the cross-section. Furthermore, the width of the third deformable region DFA3 in the cross-section can vary along the thickness direction. However, the shape of the third deformable region DFA3 is not limited to this or thus restricted.

[0117] A third irradiation operation can be performed after the second irradiation operation. The first laser beam LB1, the second laser beam LB2, and the third laser beam LB3 can all be laser beams irradiated from the same laser irradiation unit LS. After cutting a portion of the preliminary window module by irradiating the first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2, another portion of the preliminary window module can be cut by irradiating the third laser beam LB3. In this respect, the power of the third laser beam LB3 can be less than the power of each of the first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2. In the third irradiation operation, the power of the third laser beam LB3 can be set to be less than the power of each of the first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2, and can be precisely controlled or selected to minimize or reduce the remaining thickness SD of the adhesive layer PSA1 superimposed with the third irradiation line CL3. Therefore, the thickness SD can be reduced when removing the dummy part DPA (see Figure 10G The impact applied to the window WIN at that time.

[0118] Reference Figure 10F and Figure 10G When the third irradiation operation on the initial window module is completed, the third deformed region DFA3 can be removed. After removing the third deformed region DFA3, the remaining thickness SD of the adhesive layer PSA1 can be about 20 micrometers or less. If the remaining thickness SD of the adhesive layer PSA1 exceeds about 20 micrometers (e.g., when the remaining thickness SD of the adhesive layer PSA1 exceeds about 20 micrometers), cracks may occur due to the impact on the polarizer PP disposed above the adhesive layer PSA1 if the dummy part DPA is removed (e.g., when the dummy part DPA is removed).

[0119] The dummy part (DPA) of the window module can be removed, thus enabling the formation of... Figure 10H The window module WM is shown in the figure. In this respect, the dummy part DPA can be a part that is spaced apart and / or separated (e.g., spaced apart or separated) in a direction away from the first region AR1 based on the point PT where the remaining thickness SD of the adhesive layer PSA1 is the smallest. Figure 10H The window module WM shown can be used with reference Figure 9A and Figure 9B The window module described corresponds to this.

[0120] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, since the laser beam with gradually decreasing power irradiates the same location multiple times, the power of the laser beam can be easily controlled or selected. Therefore, the impact applied to the polarizer PP during the process of removing the dummy part DPA can be reduced, and the effect on the window WIN during laser beam irradiation can be effectively controlled or selected. For example, the impact applied to the polarizer PP and the window WIN can be reduced, and damage to the window WIN can be minimized, reduced, or prevented.

[0121] Figures 10A to 10HThe example shown illustrates a case where the laser beam irradiates a specific point of the cutting window module three times. However, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to this or thus restricted, and the number of laser beam irradiations can vary. Furthermore, the power, speed, focus, and diameter of the first laser beam LB1, the second laser beam LB2, and the third laser beam LB3 can be set differently depending on the material of the layers constituting the window module, the cutting shape of the window module, and the material of the polarizing plate PP.

[0122] Reference Figure 10I It can Figure 10H The window module WM shown is coupled to the display panel DP. After the display panel DP is arranged on the polarizing plate PP, the window module WM and the display panel DP can be coupled to each other. The window module WM and the display panel DP can be coupled to each other by applying pressure. The first region AR1 and the second region AR2 can be coupled to the effective region AA (see reference). Figure 4 ) and peripheral NDA (refer to Figure 4 )correspond.

[0123] Figures 11A to 11C This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process for manufacturing an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 11A to 11C The diagram illustrates the pair along one or more embodiments. Figure 7 The window module, cut by line II-II', is subjected to a laser cutting process. (In the following text...) Figures 11A to 11C In the figures, the same / similar reference numerals indicate Figures 7 to 10H The same / similar elements shown are not included here; therefore, for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same / similar elements will not be provided.

[0124] Figure 11A A cross-section of the window module in the corner region is shown after the second illumination operation. (Refer to...) Figure 11A After the second irradiation operation, a curved surface can be formed at the end of the processing area of ​​the second layer COP. Additionally, a bent portion BP, bending in the direction opposite to the third direction DR3, can be formed at the end of the processing area of ​​the second layer COP. This structure can be formed by setting at least one of the irradiation lines to be separated from or spaced apart from other irradiation lines when cutting the corner area of ​​the window module. Furthermore, when at least one of the irradiation lines shifts, the power of the laser beam can be dispersed, thus forming a structure including the bent portion BP, unlike embodiments where the laser beam is irradiated multiple times at the same location. In this respect, the bent portion BP can have a curved surface. A detailed description of the spacing of the irradiation lines in the corner area of ​​the window module will be described later.

[0125] Reference Figure 11B and Figure 11CThis can remove the third deformation region DFA3 where the third laser beam LB3 is absorbed. In this respect, the bending structure including the bending portion BP can alleviate the concentration of thermal stress at specific locations during the laser cutting process and can reduce thermal damage to the layer arranged below the second layer COP.

[0126] Figure 11C The dummy portion DPA of the window module shown can be removed. Even after removing the dummy portion DPA, the bent portion BP of the second layer COP can be retained. For example, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, after removing the dummy portion DPA, the shape of the side surface of the second layer COP adjacent to the corner region of the window WIN can be different from the shape of the side surface adjacent to the linear region of the window WIN. The window module formed after removing the dummy portion DPA can be compared with the reference... Figure 9B The window module described corresponds to WM1.

[0127] Figure 12A and Figure 12B Each is a plan view of a window module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 13A to 13D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the spatial relationship between illumination lines according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the diagram, for ease of explanation, each virtual illumination line is shown as a dashed line, and Figures 13A to 13D Each shows a cross-sectional view of the preliminary window module WM-I in the corner area. Figures 13A to 13D The first irradiation line CL1, the second irradiation line CL2, and the third irradiation line CL3 shown can be respectively compared with the reference. Figures 10A to 11C The first irradiation line CL1, the second irradiation line CL2, and the third irradiation line CL3 are described as corresponding.

[0128] Reference Figure 12A In one or more embodiments, when viewed in a plane (in a plan view), the window WIN may have an edge (e.g., a perimeter) comprising four straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3, and SE4 and four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4, the four corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 arranged between the straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3, and SE4 to connect adjacent straight edges among the straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3, and SE4. Each of the illumination lines CLa and CLb may have curvature in the region adjacent to the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4 of the window WIN.

[0129] In one or more embodiments, if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), a specific irradiation line CLb may include a portion spaced apart from and / or separated from the first irradiation line CLa (e.g., spaced apart or separated). For example, the specific irradiation line CLb may be positioned in a corner region at a location different from that of the first irradiation line CLa.

[0130] For example, in one or more embodiments, if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), a specific illumination line CLb may be provided in a region adjacent to the straight edges SE1, SE2, SE3 and SE4 of the window WIN at a position overlapping with the first illumination line CLa, and may be provided in a region adjacent to the corner edges CE1, CE2, CE3 and CE4 of the window WIN at a position not overlapping with the first illumination line CLa.

[0131] For example, in one or more embodiments, a specific irradiation line CLb may be configured to be located in a direction away from the first irradiation line CLa relative to the first irradiation line AR1. If at least one of the irradiation lines is shifted (e.g., when at least one of the irradiation lines is shifted), the power of the laser beam can be dispersed. In the corner region of the window WIN, the degree of overlap of the laser beam in the specific region can be increased compared to the linear region. Furthermore, if a polyvinyl alcohol film is additionally arranged between the triacetyl cellulose layer and the polyolefin film (e.g., when a polyvinyl alcohol film is additionally arranged between the triacetyl cellulose layer and the polyolefin film), a decrease in window quality may occur in the corner region of the window WIN due to the difference in the degree of film shrinkage. According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, because at least one irradiation line is shifted, the impact exerted on the optical layer RPL adjacent to the corner region of the window WIN can be reduced compared to the case where the laser beam is irradiated multiple times at the same location.

[0132] Reference Figure 12B In one or more embodiments, if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), a particular illumination ray CLc may be spaced apart from and / or separated from the first illumination ray CLa (e.g., spaced apart or separated) in an area adjacent to the corner area of ​​the window WIN. In these embodiments, with Figure 12A Unlike other configurations, a specific irradiation line CLc can be set to lie in a direction close to the first region AR1 relative to the first irradiation line CLa. Even in this configuration, the power of the laser beam can be dispersed, thus reducing the impact on the optical layer RPL near the corner region of the window WIN compared to the case where the laser beam irradiates the same location multiple times.

[0133] In the presented embodiment, the first irradiation line CLa can be compared with a reference line. Figures 10A to 11CThe first irradiation line CL1 is described, and specific irradiation lines CLb and CLc can correspond to the second irradiation line CL2 or the third irradiation line CL3.

[0134] Reference Figure 13A In one or more embodiments, in the corner region of window WIN, the second irradiation line CL2 may be positioned further away from the first irradiation line CL1 than the first irradiation line CL1, and the third irradiation line CL3 may coincide with the first irradiation line CL1. For example, in the corner region of window WIN, the first laser beam LB1 (refer to...) Figure 10B ) and the third laser beam LB3 (refer to Figure 10F The first laser beam (LB2) can irradiate the same location during both the first and third irradiation operations, while the second laser beam (see reference LB2) can irradiate the same location during both the first and third irradiation operations. Figure 10D During the second irradiation operation, the irradiation can be performed at a location different from the locations of the first and third irradiation operations.

[0135] Reference Figure 13B In one or more embodiments, in the corner region of window WIN, the second irradiation line CL2 may be positioned closer to the first region AR1 than the first irradiation line CL1, and the third irradiation line CL3 may coincide with the first irradiation line CL1. For example, in the corner region of window WIN, the first laser beam LB1 and the third laser beam LB3 may irradiate the same location during the first and third irradiation operations, while the second laser beam LB2 may irradiate a different location during the second irradiation operation than during the first and third irradiation operations.

[0136] Reference Figure 13C In one or more embodiments, in the corner region of window WIN, the third irradiation line CL3 may be positioned further away from the first irradiation line CL1 than the first irradiation line CL1, and the second irradiation line CL2 may coincide with the first irradiation line CL1. For example, in the corner region of window WIN, the first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2 may irradiate the same location during the first and second irradiation operations, while the third laser beam LB3 may irradiate a different location during the third irradiation operation than during the first and second irradiation operations.

[0137] Reference Figure 13DIn one or more embodiments, in the corner region of window WIN, the third irradiation line CL3 may be positioned closer to the first region AR1 than the first irradiation line CL1, and the second irradiation line CL2 may coincide with the first irradiation line CL1. For example, in the corner region of window WIN, the first laser beam LB1 and the second laser beam LB2 may irradiate the same location during the first irradiation operation and the second irradiation operation, while the third laser beam LB3 may irradiate a location different from the location of the first irradiation operation and the second irradiation operation during the third irradiation operation.

[0138] Figures 13A to 13D The second illumination line CL2 and the third illumination line CL3 are shown to be positioned independently closer to or further away from the first illumination line CL1 relative to the first illumination line CL1; however, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto or thereby restricted. One or more suitable modifications can be made, such as moving the positions of two or more laser beams or changing the arrangement of two or more laser beams, provided that the power of the laser beams is effectively distributed, and embodiments of this disclosure are not specifically limited thereto.

[0139] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the spacing of illumination lines in a corner region of a window according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0140] Reference Figure 14 As described above, if viewed in a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plane), a particular ray CLb can be spaced apart from the first ray CLa in the corner region of the window WIN. Figure 14 The first irradiation line CLa and the specific irradiation line CLb shown can be respectively connected with... Figure 12A The irradiation lines CLa and CLb shown correspond to each other. In this respect, the interval distances SLa and SLb from the first irradiation line CLa to the specific irradiation line CLb can be determined based on the adjacent corner sides CE1, CE2, CE3 and CE4 (see reference). Figure 12A The spacing distances SLa and SLb between the first irradiation line CLa and the specific irradiation line CLb vary depending on the curvature of each line in the corner region of the window WIN. For example, in one or more embodiments, the spacing distances SLa and SLb between the first irradiation line CLa and the specific irradiation line CLb can be locally varied according to the curvature differences at various locations within the corner region of the window WIN. In regions with relatively large curvature, the spacing distance SLa can be increased, and conversely, in regions with small curvature, the spacing distance SLb can be decreased. As described above, because the spacing distances are set differently according to the curvature of the corner region, the energy of the laser beam can be distributed more uniformly, and thermal stress concentrated in specific areas due to the laser cutting process can be reduced.

[0141] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, when processing the corner portions of a preliminary window module, the power of the laser beam can be effectively dispersed by separating at least one of the irradiation lines from the other. Therefore, the process variation between the linear and corner regions of the window WIN can be reduced, and process accuracy can be improved through more uniform cutting. For example, the disclosed embodiments integrate structural design and process control to achieve enhanced reliability and optical quality. By harmonizing the geometry of the polarizer (including the sides of different shapes in the linear and corner regions) with a multi-step laser cutting process employing reduced power levels and positional offsets, the device minimizes or reduces thermal stress, lowers the risk of cracking, and improves cutting accuracy. These combined features enable uniform edge quality, maintain adhesive integrity, and enhance the overall durability of the electronic device.

[0142] In this disclosure, when expressions such as “at least one of…”, “one of…”, and “selected from…” precede or follow a column of elements, they modify the entire column of elements rather than individual elements within the column. For example, “at least one of a, b, and c”, “at least one selected from a, b, and c”, “at least one selected from a to c”, etc., can indicate only a, only b, only c, both a and b (e.g., both a and b at the same time), both a and c (e.g., both a and c at the same time), both b and c (e.g., both b and c at the same time), all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0143] In the context of this application, unless otherwise defined, the term “use” and its variations may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize” and its variations, respectively.

[0144] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” or similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for inherent deviations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by a person skilled in the art. Taking into account the measurement being discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a specific quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system), “about” or “approximately” as used herein includes the stated value and is intended to mean within an acceptable range of deviation from the specific value as determined by a person skilled in the art. For example, “about” or “approximately” could mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the stated value. Furthermore, it should be understood that even if the terms “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” are not explicitly stated in a given element (e.g., a claim element), the range of such an element is intended to include non-substantial variations or variations that would be understood by a person skilled in the art. For example, the numerical values ​​and ranges provided herein are intended to include tolerances and measurement uncertainties that would be recognized by a person skilled in the art, and elements (e.g., claim elements) should be interpreted accordingly to include such equivalents.

[0145] Any numerical range described herein is intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0 (and includes both the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0), that is, a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0 (such as 2.4 to 7.6). Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, while any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this disclosure (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges contained within the range expressly described herein.

[0146] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, in view of the entirety of this disclosure, each suitable feature of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined in part or in whole, or combined with one another, and may be technically interlocked and operated in a variety of suitable ways, and each embodiment may be implemented independently of or in combination with one another in any suitable manner, unless otherwise stated or implied.

[0147] The window manufacturing apparatus, light-emitting element, display module, display device, electronic device / equipment, or any other related device / equipment or component described herein according to embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuit), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, various components of the device can be formed on an integrated circuit (IC) chip or a separate IC chip. Furthermore, various components of the device can be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape-on-a-chip (TCP), a printed circuit board (PCB), or formed on a substrate. Additionally, various components of the device can be processes or threads running on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, executing computer program instructions and interacting with other system components to perform the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in memory that can be implemented in the computing device using standard memory devices, such as random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions can also be stored on other non-transitory computer-readable media, such as CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, without departing from the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure, the functions of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or the functions of a particular computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices.

[0148] Although one or more embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it is understood that this disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but rather that one or more suitable changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art as described in the spirit and scope of the claimed disclosure. Therefore, the subject matter disclosed should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of this disclosure should be determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: The display panel includes an effective area and a peripheral area adjacent to the effective area; A window, on the display panel, includes a perimeter comprising four straight edges and four corner edges, wherein, in a plan view, the four corner edges are arranged between the four straight edges and connect the four straight edges that are adjacent to each other; A housing is located below the display panel and houses the display panel. A phase delay layer is placed on the window. A polarizer, situated on a phase retardation layer and comprising multiple layers; and An adhesive layer is placed between the window and the phase retardation layer to bond the window to the phase retardation layer. in, The plurality of layers includes a first layer, a second layer on the first layer, and a third layer on the second layer. In the plan view, the side surface of the second layer includes a first side portion adjacent to the four straight edges and a second side portion adjacent to the four corner edges, and The first side portion differs in shape from the second side portion.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The side surface of the second layer protrudes beyond the side surface of the first layer and the side surface of the third layer in a direction away from the effective area.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The side surface of the second layer has a curved surface.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The second side includes a bent portion that bends toward the third layer.

5. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, The bent portion is on the same plane as at least a portion of the third layer.

6. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, The end of the bent portion includes a curved surface.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The adhesive layer includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The polarizing plate further includes a polarizing layer between the first layer and the second layer, and the polarizing layer includes polyvinyl alcohol.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The polarizing plate includes a triacetyl cellulose layer, a polyolefin film on the triacetyl cellulose layer, and a protective film on the polyolefin film. The triacetyl cellulose layer is the first layer, the polyolefin film is the second layer, and the protective film is the third layer. Specifically, when viewed in cross-section, the side surface of the polyolefin film adjacent to the four straight edges is different from the side surface of the polyolefin film adjacent to the four corner edges when viewed in cross-section.

10. A method of manufacturing an electronic device, the method comprising: Provide a display panel; A window is provided, the window including a first region and a second region around the edge of the first region in a plan view, and including a perimeter comprising four straight sides and four corner sides, the four corner sides being arranged between the four straight sides and connecting the four straight sides adjacent to each other in a plan view; An adhesive layer and an optical layer are sequentially laminated onto the window to form a preliminary window module; Cut the preliminary window module to form a window module; as well as The display panel is attached to the window module. The step of cutting the preliminary window module to form the window module includes: Perform a first irradiation operation to irradiate a first laser beam along a first irradiation line defined along the second region; Perform a second irradiation operation to irradiate a second laser beam along a second irradiation line defined along the second region; and A third irradiation operation is performed to irradiate a third laser beam along a third irradiation line defined along the second region. Wherein, at least one of the first irradiation line, the second irradiation line and the third irradiation line includes a portion that is separated from the other irradiation lines, and in the plan view, the separated portion overlaps with each of the four corner sides.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, In the plan view, the separation distance between the separated portion and the other irradiation lines varies according to the curvature of the four corner sides.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The second irradiation operation is performed after the first irradiation operation. The third irradiation operation is performed after the second irradiation operation. The power of the second laser beam is less than the power of the first laser beam, and The power of the third laser beam is less than the power of the second laser beam.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The second irradiation line is positioned further away from the first irradiation line than the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line.

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The second irradiation line is positioned closer to the first region than the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line.

15. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The second irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line is positioned further away from the first irradiation line than the first irradiation line in the first region.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The second irradiation line coincides with the first irradiation line, and the third irradiation line is positioned closer to the first region than the first irradiation line.

17. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The optical layer includes a phase retardation layer, a triacetyl cellulose layer on the phase retardation layer, a polyolefin film on the triacetyl cellulose layer, and a protective film on the polyolefin film. Wherein, the first depth reached by the first laser beam is greater than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the upper surface of the polyolefin film.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, A portion of the triacetylcellulose layer is vaporized by the energy of the first laser beam, and a protrusion is formed in the polyolefin film due to the gas generated by the vaporization of the portion of the triacetylcellulose layer.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The second laser beam reaches a second depth greater than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the upper surface of the phase delay layer.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein, The third depth reached by the third laser beam is less than the distance between the upper surface of the optical layer and the lower surface of the adhesive layer.

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