Display module and display device

Abstract

The application discloses a display module and a display device. The display module has a first bending area and a non-bending area located on both sides of the bending area in a first direction, and comprises a support layer, a display panel, a cover plate assembly, an electrostatic discharge layer and a first conductive structure. The display panel comprises a first screen body, a first bending part and a second screen body, the first bending part connects the first screen body and the second screen body, and the display panel can be bent at the first bending part. The first conductive structure is in contact with the cover plate assembly, the display panel, the support layer and the electrostatic discharge layer in a second direction, so that the static electricity in the cover plate assembly, the display panel and the support layer can be introduced into the electrostatic discharge layer through the first conductive structure and discharged through the electrostatic discharge layer, thereby reducing the static electricity entering each film layer, improving the problem that the static electricity exists in the film layers on both sides of the display panel and forms an electric field, and causing the device characteristics of the display panel to deviate under the influence of an external electric field, thereby forming display defects.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and flat panel displays based on light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are widely used in various consumer electronics products such as mobile phones, televisions, laptops, and desktop computers due to their advantages such as high image quality, energy saving, thin body, and wide range of applications, becoming the mainstream of display devices.

[0003] However, the performance of current OLED display products needs to be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a display module and a display device, which aim to improve the performance of OLED display products.

[0005] A first aspect of this application provides a display module having a first bending area and non-bending areas located on both sides of the first bending area in a first direction. The display module includes: a support layer; a display panel located on one side of the support layer, the display panel including a first screen body, a first bending portion and a second screen body, the first screen body and the second screen body being located on both sides of the first bending portion in the first direction and located in the non-bending area, the first bending portion being located in the first bending area, the first bending portion being bendable to make the first screen body and the second screen body move away from each other or move closer to each other; a cover plate assembly located on the side of the display panel away from the support layer; an electrostatic discharge layer located on the side of the support layer away from the display panel, the electrostatic discharge layer being grounded; and a first conductive structure disposed on the outer edge of the display module, the first conductive structure being in contact with and connected sequentially to the cover plate assembly, the display panel, the support layer and the electrostatic discharge layer in a second direction, the first direction and the second direction intersecting.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the first aspect of this application, the support layer includes a first sub-layer, a second sub-layer, and a third sub-layer stacked together, with the third sub-layer located between the second sub-layer and the display panel.

[0007] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the thickness of the first sublayer is greater than that of the third sublayer.

[0008] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the first sublayer includes a carbon-based material.

[0009] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the second sublayer includes a flexible material.

[0010] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the display module further includes: a second conductive structure disposed on the outer edge of the display module, wherein the second conductive structure is sequentially contacted and connected to the first sub-layer and the electrostatic discharge layer in a second direction.

[0011] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the second conductive structure and the first conductive structure are arranged at intervals.

[0012] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the second conductive structure includes conductive silver paste.

[0013] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the first conductive structure includes a conductive liquid.

[0014] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the outer edge of the display module has a recessed portion that is recessed toward the interior of the display module, and the display module further includes: a third conductive structure, the third conductive structure filling the recessed portion and contacting the first conductive structure.

[0015] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, there are multiple recesses and multiple third conductive structures.

[0016] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the third conductive structure includes conductive silver paste.

[0017] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the support layer has a hollow portion in the first bending area.

[0018] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, there are multiple hollowed-out portions, which are spaced apart.

[0019] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the electrostatic discharge layer includes a first portion and a second portion located in the non-bending area and spaced apart from each other, the first portion being located on one side of the first screen body and the second portion being located on one side of the second screen body.

[0020] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the material of the electrostatic discharge layer includes a metallic material.

[0021] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the display module further has a second bending region located on the side of the non-bending region away from the first bending region in a first direction. The display panel further includes a second bending portion located in the second bending region and a third screen body located in the non-bending region. At least a portion of the second bending portion is bent and connected between the second screen body and the third screen body. The third screen body is located on the side of the electrostatic discharge layer away from the second screen body.

[0022] According to any of the foregoing embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first conductive structure is located on the side of the first screen body away from the second bend.

[0023] An embodiment of the second aspect of this application provides a display device that includes a display module of any of the above embodiments.

[0024] According to an embodiment of this application, the display module has a first bending area and non-bending areas located on both sides of the bending area in a first direction. The display module includes a support layer, a display panel, a cover plate assembly, an electrostatic discharge layer, and a first conductive structure. The display panel includes a first screen body, a first bending portion, and a second screen body. The first bending portion connects the first screen body and the second screen body. The display panel can be bent at the first bending portion, causing the first screen body and the second screen body to move closer to or further away from each other, thereby realizing the folding display of the display module. The support layer supports and protects the display panel. The cover plate assembly encapsulates and protects the display panel. The first conductive structure simultaneously contacts and connects with the cover plate assembly, the display panel, the support layer, and the electrostatic discharge layer in a second direction. This allows static electricity in the cover plate assembly, the display panel, and the support layer to be conducted to the electrostatic discharge layer through the first conductive structure and released through the electrostatic discharge layer. This reduces static electricity entering each film layer, improves the performance of the display product by addressing the issue of static electricity and electric field formation in the film layers on both sides of the display panel, which causes the device characteristics of the display panel to shift under the influence of the applied electric field, thus preventing display defects. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar features, and the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a top view schematic diagram of a display module provided in the first aspect embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in the first aspect embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in yet another embodiment;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment;

[0034] Figure 9 This is an equivalent circuit diagram of a display module provided in the first aspect of this application.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0036] 10. Display module; 11. Non-bending area; 12. First bending area; 13. Second bending area;

[0037] 100. Display panel; 110. First screen; 120. Second screen; 130. First bend; 140. Second bend; 150. Third screen;

[0038] 200, Support layer; 210, First sub-layer; 220, Second sub-layer; 230, Third sub-layer; 240, Cutout section;

[0039] 300. Cover plate assembly;

[0040] 400. Static discharge layer; 410. First section; 420. Second section;

[0041] 500, First conductive structure;

[0042] 600. Second conductive structure;

[0043] 700. Third conductive structure; 710. Recessed portion;

[0044] R1, first resistor; R2, second resistor; Vx, detection potential;

[0045] X, the first direction; Y, the second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of this application will now be described in detail. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only configured to explain this application and are not configured to limit this application. For those skilled in the art, this application can be implemented without some of these specific details. The following description of the embodiments is merely to provide a better understanding of this application by illustrating examples of this application.

[0047] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0048] It should be understood that when describing the structure of a component, when referring to a layer or region as being "above" or "on top of" another layer or region, it can mean that it is directly above the other layer or region, or that it contains other layers or regions between it and the other layer or region. Furthermore, if the component is flipped over, that layer or region will be located "below" or "under" the other layer or region.

[0049] Flexible organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, characterized by active light emission, wide viewing angles, broad color gamut, high brightness, fast response time, and low power consumption, are gradually becoming the mainstream in the market. Furthermore, due to their flexible and foldable structure, they can be used to fabricate various forms of electronic devices. For example, they can be used in foldable screen phones, allowing for the storage of large screens through folding, thus meeting users' demands for large screens and portability.

[0050] In foldable display modules, a support layer is typically placed on one side of the display panel to support it and ensure its structural strength. Therefore, film layers are placed on both the top and bottom sides of the display panel. During use, static electricity can easily accumulate in these film layers, creating an electric field. Under the influence of this electric field, the characteristics of the display components shift, leading to a decrease in display quality and potential display defects (such as dark lines or mura).

[0051] Therefore, in order to solve the display problem, this application provides a display module and a display device. The various embodiments of the display module and display device will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The display module may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display module.

[0052] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a top view schematic diagram of a display module provided in the first aspect embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in the first aspect of this application.

[0053] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a first aspect embodiment of this application provides a display module 10. The display module 10 has a first bending region 12 and non-bending regions 11 located on both sides of the first bending region 12 in a first direction X. The display module 10 includes: a support layer 200; and a display panel 100 located on one side of the support layer 200. The display panel 100 includes a first screen 110, a first bending portion 130, and a second screen 120. The first screen 110 and the second screen 120 are located on both sides of the first bending portion 130 in the first direction X and are located in the non-bending region 11. The first bending portion 130 is located in the first bending region 12. The bending portion 130 is bendable so that the first screen 110 and the second screen 120 are either far apart or close together; the cover plate assembly 300 is located on the side of the display panel 100 away from the support layer 200; the electrostatic discharge layer 400 is located on the side of the support layer 200 away from the display panel 100 and is grounded; the first conductive structure 500 is disposed on the outer edge of the display module 10 and is sequentially connected to the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y, where the first direction X and the second direction Y intersect.

[0054] According to an embodiment of this application, the display module 10 has a first bending region 12 and non-bending regions 11 located on both sides of the bending region in a first direction X. The display module 10 includes a support layer 200, a display panel 100, a cover plate assembly 300, an electrostatic discharge layer 400, and a first conductive structure 500. The display panel 100 includes a first screen body 110, a first bending portion 130, and a second screen body 120. The first bending portion 130 connects the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120. The display panel 100 can be bent at the first bending portion 130, causing the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120 to move closer to or further away from each other, thereby realizing the folded display of the display module 10. The support layer 200 supports and protects the display panel 100. The cover plate assembly 300 encapsulates and protects the display panel 100. The first conductive structure 500 is simultaneously in contact with the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200, and the static discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y. This allows static electricity in the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, and the support layer 200 to be conducted to the static discharge layer 400 through the first conductive structure 500 and released through the static discharge layer 400. This reduces static electricity entering each film layer, improves the situation where static electricity exists in the film layers on both sides of the display panel 100 and forms an electric field, causing the device characteristics of the display panel 100 to shift under the influence of the applied electric field, thus causing display defects and improving the performance of the display product.

[0055] The outer edge of the display module 10 refers to the outer edge of the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200, and the electrostatic discharge layer 400.

[0056] The grounding of the electrostatic discharge layer 400 can be achieved by grounding the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in contact with the outer casing of the display module 10, or by other grounding methods.

[0057] Optionally, the cover plate assembly 300 includes a polarizer disposed on the side of the display panel 100 away from the support layer 200. The polarizer can filter natural light and reduce the amount of reflected light, thereby improving the display effect of the display module 10.

[0058] Optionally, the cover assembly 300 also includes a cover plate bonded to the side of the polarizer facing away from the display panel 100. The cover plate provides protection for components such as the polarizer and the display panel 100, thereby improving the lifespan of the display module 10.

[0059] The cover plate can be a flat cover plate. Alternatively, the cover plate may include a flat portion and a curved portion.

[0060] Optionally, the cover plate, polarizer and display panel 100 are bonded together with optical adhesive between adjacent parts.

[0061] Optionally, the first conductive structure 500 is located outside the first bending area 12 to avoid the bending of the display module 10 affecting the electrostatic discharge performance of the first conductive structure 500.

[0062] Optionally, the display panel 100 is a flexible display panel 100.

[0063] Optionally, the elastic modulus of the first bending portion 130 is less than that of the elastic modulus of the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120, so that the display panel 100 can be bent at the first bending portion 130, so that the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120 move closer to each other or further away from each other, thereby realizing the folding display of the display module 10.

[0064] The modulus of elasticity can be considered an indicator of how easily a material undergoes elastic deformation. The higher the value, the greater the stress required to induce a certain elastic deformation, meaning the material is more stiff and, under a given stress, undergoes less elastic deformation. The modulus of elasticity refers to the stress required for a material to produce a unit elastic deformation under external force. It reflects a material's ability to resist elastic deformation, equivalent to the stiffness of a common spring.

[0065] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the support layer 200 includes a first sublayer 210, a second sublayer 220 and a third sublayer 230 stacked together, with the third sublayer 230 located between the second sublayer 220 and the display panel 100.

[0067] Optionally, the material of the first sub-layer 210 may include carbon-based materials, such as carbon fiber, meaning the first sub-layer 210 is a carbon fiber plate. The high strength-to-weight ratio of carbon fiber provides reliable support while reducing the weight of the module. Since carbon fiber has relatively weak longitudinal conductivity, a first conductive structure 500 is provided on the side to supplement the longitudinal conductive path and reduce static electricity buildup.

[0068] Optionally, the material of the second sub-layer 220 may include a flexible material, such as polyimide (PI). The flexibility of PI allows the support layer 200 to be repeatedly bent in the first bending region 12 without breaking, reducing the risk of material fatigue. Optionally, the third sub-layer 230 may be a support film.

[0069] In these alternative embodiments, multifunctional integration is achieved through a layered design. The first sub-layer 210 (carbon fiber plate) provides high-strength support, the second sub-layer 220 (flexible material) imparts flexibility to the first bending region 12, and the third sub-layer 230 (support film) serves as an interface buffer layer, reducing stress concentration between the display panel 100 and the rigid support layer 200. The layered structure can cooperate with the electrostatic discharge layer 400, which conducts static electricity from each layer to the grounded electrostatic discharge layer 400 via the first conductive structure 500, preventing static electricity accumulation at the interface. The first sub-layer 210 (carbon fiber plate), located on the outermost side, provides high-strength support, ensuring the overall structural stability of the display module 10, while also reducing module weight through a lightweight design. Its relatively weak longitudinal conductivity is compensated for by side conductive liquid coating (first conductive structure 500). The second sub-layer 220 (polyimide, PI), as an intermediate flexible layer, imparts the necessary flexibility to the first bending region 12, disperses bending stress, prevents material fatigue cracking, and reduces mechanical damage to the display panel 100 during bending. The third sub-layer 230 (support film) is in close contact with the display panel 100, serving as an interface buffer layer to reduce localized stress concentration caused by direct contact between the display panel 100 and the rigid carbon fiber layer, preventing scratches or microcracks. The rigid support of the first sub-layer 210 combined with the flexible properties of the second sub-layer 220 maintains high strength in the non-bending area 11 and achieves controllable deformation in the bending area, ensuring the accuracy and durability of the folding action.

[0070] Optionally, the third sub-layer 230 is an insulating material that can isolate direct charge transfer between the display panel 100 and the support layer 200; the static electricity of each layer needs to be conducted to the static discharge layer 400 through the first conductive structure 500.

[0071] In some alternative embodiments, the thickness of the first sublayer 210 is greater than that of the third sublayer 230.

[0072] In these optional embodiments, a thicker carbon fiber layer enhances overall rigidity, preventing deformation or breakage due to insufficient support during bending. A thinner third sub-layer 230 (support film) ensures interface protection while avoiding increasing overall thickness, meeting the lightweight requirements of foldable products. By having the thick carbon fiber layer provide rigid support and the thin support film achieve a flexible transition, a "rigid-flexible" gradient structure is formed. This concentrates bending stress in the second sub-layer 220 (PI flexible layer), reducing the risk of interlayer delamination or microcracks in the first bending zone 12 due to stress abrupt changes. The thick carbon fiber layer provides a stable reference plane, ensuring the morphology controllability of the bending action and reducing wave deformation or wrinkles in the folded screen.

[0073] Optionally, in the display panel 100, the third sub-layer 230, the second sub-layer 220, the first sub-layer 210 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400, adjacent layers are bonded together with an adhesive.

[0074] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the display module 10 further includes a second conductive structure 600 disposed on the outer edge of the display module 10, wherein the second conductive structure 600 is sequentially connected to the first sub-layer 210 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y.

[0076] In these optional embodiments, the second conductive structure 600 is specifically designed to address the electrostatic discharge requirements of the first sub-layer 210 (carbon fiber plate) of the support layer 200. Since the longitudinal conductivity of carbon fiber is relatively weak, the second conductive structure 600 directly connects its side to the electrostatic discharge layer 400, forming a low-resistance path to supplement the longitudinal conductivity of the carbon fiber plate and further reduce static electricity accumulation in the first sub-layer 210. In conjunction with the first conductive structure 500 (covering the cover plate assembly 300, display panel 100, and support layer 200), a "dual-channel" electrostatic discharge system is formed, avoiding static electricity residue caused by single-path failure and improving system reliability.

[0077] Optionally, the second conductive structure 600 and the first conductive structure 500 are spaced apart. This spacing prevents the formation of current loops or localized electric field interference between the first conductive structure 500 and the second conductive structure 600, reducing the risk of short circuits. Through optimized spatial distribution, static electricity is efficiently discharged from different locations, reducing mura caused by the electric field.

[0078] Optionally, the material of the second conductive structure 600 includes conductive silver paste. Conductive silver paste exhibits superior conductivity compared to ordinary conductive liquids (such as carbon-based conductive liquids), providing a more stable low-resistance pathway, and is particularly suitable for bonding with the first sublayer 210 to compensate for its insufficient longitudinal conductivity. The conductive silver paste can be precisely applied to the sides of the carbon fiber using a dispensing process, forming a durable conductive path after curing.

[0079] Optionally, the material of the first conductive structure 500 includes a conductive liquid. The conductive liquid can be uniformly coated on complex interfaces such as the cover plate, display panel 100, and support layer 200, filling micro-gaps and ensuring electrostatic conductivity between layers. The coating process is suitable for large areas or irregularly shaped regions, complementing the second conductive structure 600 and balancing efficiency and cost.

[0080] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0081] like Figure 5As shown, in some optional embodiments, the outer edge of the display module 10 has a recess 710 that is recessed toward the interior of the display module 10. The display module 10 also includes a third conductive structure 700, which fills the recess 710 and contacts the first conductive structure 500.

[0082] In these optional embodiments, since the display module 10 has a recess 710, the continuous coating process using the first conductive structure 500 is quite difficult. By filling the recess 710 with the third conductive structure 700 before coating the first conductive structure 500, the coating difficulty is greatly reduced, and the continuity is better, improving the electrostatic discharge effect of the first conductive structure 500. The recess 710 provides a physical anchor point for the third conductive structure 700, preventing it from detaching or breaking due to mechanical stress during bending, ensuring the long-term stability of the electrostatic discharge path. By filling the recess 710, the third conductive structure 700 and the first conductive structure 500 form multi-point contact, improving the coverage and redundancy of the overall conductive network and avoiding localized electrostatic accumulation.

[0083] For example, within the cover plate assembly 300, the polarizer is recessed relative to the cover plate and the display panel 100, thereby forming the recess 710.

[0084] The first conductive structure 500 (conductive liquid) covers the upper interface of the display module 10 (cover plate, display panel 100, support layer 200) to achieve wide-area electrostatic discharge.

[0085] The third conductive structure 700 (silver paste-filled recess 710): Through the contact between the recess 710 and the first conductive structure 500, a "lateral + longitudinal" conductive path is formed, which enhances the charge transfer efficiency between the interfaces.

[0086] In some alternative embodiments, there are multiple recesses 710 and multiple third conductive structures 700.

[0087] In these alternative embodiments, multiple recesses 710 are distributed along the outer edge, allowing the third conductive structure 700 to directionally discharge static electricity accumulation in different areas, reducing the risk of mura caused by the electric field. The multiple conductive structures act as backups for each other; even if one conductive structure fails due to process deviations or mechanical damage, the remaining structures can still maintain their electrostatic discharge function.

[0088] Optionally, the material of the third conductive structure 700 includes conductive silver paste. The fluidity of the silver paste is adapted to the complex morphology of the recess 710, and it can completely fill the recessed area. After curing, it is tightly bonded to the recessed wall, avoiding the decrease in conductivity caused by gaps. Static electricity is introduced into the first conductive structure 500 through the third conductive structure 700 and released through the static discharge layer 400.

[0089] Please see Figures 1 to 6 , Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0090] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the support layer 200 has a hollow portion 240 in the first bending area 12.

[0091] In these alternative embodiments, by partially removing material from the support layer 200 (such as carbon fiber sheet), the rigidity of the bending area is significantly reduced, making it easier to bend with the deformation of the display panel 100, reducing bending resistance, and preventing material fatigue cracking. The hollow design reduces the mass of the support layer 200 in the first bending area 12, meeting the lightweight requirements of foldable products, while maintaining the structural strength of the non-bending area 11. The hollow portion 240 guides the stress during bending along a specific path to avoid stress concentration leading to local fractures or microcracks, thus extending the folding life.

[0092] In some optional embodiments, there are multiple cutout portions 240, which are spaced apart.

[0093] In these alternative embodiments, multiple spaced-apart cutouts 240 disperse bending stress over a wider area, preventing stress concentration points from forming around a single cutout 240 and further reducing the risk of material failure. The spacing design allows the support layer 200 to undergo controlled local deformation during bending, which can be transferred through the solid area between adjacent cutouts 240, balancing flexibility and structural stability.

[0094] Optionally, the cutout portion 240 is formed in at least one of the first sub-layer 210, the second sub-layer 220, or the third sub-layer 230.

[0095] Optionally, the cutout portion 240 is located in the first sub-layer 210. Optionally, the cutout portion 240 can be circular, polygonal, or the like.

[0096] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0097] like Figure 7 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the electrostatic discharge layer 400 includes a first portion 410 and a second portion 420 located in the non-bending region 11 and spaced apart from each other. The first portion 410 is located on one side of the first screen 110, and the second portion 420 is located on one side of the second screen 120.

[0098] In these optional embodiments, the split design allows the first screen 110 and the second screen 120 to move independently during folding, reducing interlayer shear stress caused by the continuous structure of the electrostatic discharge layer 400, avoiding interlayer peeling or breakage during bending, and improving folding reliability. The interval region provides buffer space for bending action, preventing the rigid electrostatic discharge layer 400 from restricting folding deformation. The first section 410 and the second section 420 correspond to the non-bending areas 11 of the first screen 110 and the second screen 120, respectively, and selectively discharge static electricity from their respective areas, avoiding uneven electric field distribution caused by cross-regional charge migration. Through the partitioned design, static electricity accumulation at the edges of the non-bending areas 11 is reduced, lowering the risk of TFT characteristic shift caused by edge electric field distortion. The split structure reduces the material usage of the electrostatic discharge layer 400, reducing the overall weight of the module and meeting the lightweight requirements of foldable products.

[0099] Optionally, the electrostatic discharge layer 400 may be made of a metallic material. Metallic materials (such as copper, aluminum, or nickel alloys) have extremely low resistivity, enabling them to quickly conduct accumulated static electricity from each layer to the ground terminal, significantly reducing the electric field-induced TFT characteristic shift. This complements the carbon fiber support layer 200 (which has weak longitudinal conductivity), and the high lateral conductivity of the metallic electrostatic discharge layer 400 compensates for the charge conduction limitations of the support layer 200. Metallic materials (such as ultra-thin stainless steel foil) can achieve lightweighting through thinning processes while maintaining high strength, avoiding increased overall module weight and meeting the design requirements of foldable products. The metallic material can be integrated with the support layer 200 (carbon fiber) and conductive structure (silver paste) through sputtering, etching, or bonding processes to form a low-resistance conductive path. The metallic electrostatic discharge layer 400 can also serve as an electromagnetic shielding layer, reducing the impact of external electromagnetic interference on the display panel 100 and improving the stability of the display signal.

[0100] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a display module provided in another embodiment.

[0101] like Figure 8 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the display module 10 further has a second bending region 13, which is located on the side of the non-bending region 11 away from the first bending region 12 in the first direction X. The display panel 100 also includes a second bending portion 140 located in the second bending region 13 and a third screen body 150 located in the non-bending region 11. At least a portion of the second bending portion 140 is bent and connected between the second screen body 120 and the third screen body 150. The third screen body 150 is located on the side of the electrostatic discharge layer 400 away from the second screen body 120.

[0102] In these alternative embodiments, the second bending portion 140 connects the second screen body 120 and the third screen body 150, and the display panel 100 can be bent at the second bending portion 140, so that the second screen body 120 and the third screen body 150 are close to each other, thereby reducing the bezel of the display panel 100 and realizing a narrow bezel design.

[0103] In some alternative embodiments, the first conductive structure 500 is located on the side of the first screen 110 away from the second bend 140.

[0104] In these optional embodiments, the first conductive structure 500 focuses on the area of ​​the first screen 110 away from the second bending region 13, preferentially dissipating static electricity accumulated in this area and preventing it from migrating to other screens through the first bending region 12, thus reducing electric field interference. The position is designed to avoid the mechanical movement range of the second bending portion 140 and the first bending portion 130, preventing the first conductive structure 500 from failing due to stretching or compression during bending. Optionally, the first conductive structure 500 can also be located on other sides of the first screen 110 or the second screen 120, avoiding the first bending portion 130 and the second bending portion 140.

[0105] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, optionally, the second conductive structure 600 is located on the side of the first screen 110 away from the second bend 140.

[0106] In these optional embodiments, the second conductive structure 600 focuses on the area of ​​the first screen 110 away from the second bending region 13, preferentially dissipating static electricity accumulated in this area and preventing it from migrating to other screens through the first bending region 12, thus reducing electric field interference. The position is designed to avoid the mechanical movement range of the second bending portion 140 and the first bending portion 130, preventing the second conductive structure 600 from failing due to stretching or compression during bending. Optionally, the second conductive structure 600 can also be located on other sides of the first screen 110 or the second screen 120, avoiding the first bending portion 130 and the second bending portion 140.

[0107] Optionally, the elastic modulus of the second bending portion 140 is less than that of the second screen body 120 and the third screen body 150, so that the display panel 100 can be bent in the second bending portion 140, so that the second screen body 120 and the third screen body 150 are brought closer to each other, and the third screen body 150 is bent to the back, thereby reducing the bezel of the display panel 100 and realizing a narrow bezel design.

[0108] Optionally, the display module 10 also includes a flexible printed circuit (FPC) and a driver chip (Integrated Circuit, IC). The flexible printed circuit and driver chip are disposed on the third screen 150. By bending the third screen 150 to the back, the flexible printed circuit and driver chip are also bent to the back, reducing the bezel width. Furthermore, static electricity generated by the display panel 100 (e.g., static electricity from film removal) can be dispersed to each film layer within the screen through the FPC, and the static electricity is conducted to the static discharge layer 400 through the first conductive structure 500 at the outer edge to release the static electricity and prevent static electricity residue from causing any impact.

[0109] Optionally, the display module 10 includes a first conductive structure 500, a second conductive structure 600, and a third conductive structure 700. The first conductive structure 500 is disposed on the outer edge of the display module 10 and is sequentially connected to the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200, and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y. The second conductive structure 600 is disposed on the outer edge of the display module 10 and is sequentially connected to the first sub-layer 210 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y. The outer edge of the display module 10 has a recessed portion 710 that is recessed toward the interior of the display module 10. The third conductive structure 700 fills the recessed portion 710 and is in contact with the first conductive structure 500.

[0110] In these optional embodiments, the first conductive structure 500 conducts static electricity from each layer to the static discharge layer 400 through multiple interfaces such as the cover plate, display panel 100, and support layer 200, reducing uneven electric field distribution caused by cross-layer charge migration. The first conductive structure 500 of the conductive liquid can fill micro gaps, ensuring contact conductivity between multiple layers, and is particularly suitable for static electricity management of complex interfaces (such as between display panel 100 and support layer 200, or between display panel 100 and cover plate assembly 300). Addressing the weakness of the first sub-layer 210 (carbon fiber plate) in longitudinal conductivity, the second conductive structure 600 of the side silver paste directly connects the first sub-layer 210 and the static discharge layer 400, efficiently discharging the static electricity accumulated in the first sub-layer 210 and preventing TFT characteristic shift caused by the electric field. The third conductive structure 700 contacts the first conductive structure 500 to form multi-point conductivity, improving the fault tolerance of the static discharge network and preventing static electricity residue caused by single-point failure. The first conductive structure 500, the second conductive structure 600, and the third conductive structure 700 are all located on the outer edge of the non-bending area 11, outside the first bending area 12 and the second bending area 13. This avoids stretching or compressing damage to the conductive path caused by bending, ensuring the stability of electrostatic discharge throughout the folding lifespan. Through the outer edge layout, the first conductive structure 500, the second conductive structure 600, and the third conductive structure 700 form a conductive mesh structure surrounding the display module 10, eliminating dead zones for electrostatic accumulation and balancing the overall electric field distribution.

[0111] Optionally, the support layer 200 has a hollow portion 240 within the first bending region 12. The electrostatic discharge layer 400 includes a first portion 410 and a second portion 420 located in the non-bending region 11 and spaced apart from each other. The first portion 410 is located on one side of the first screen body 110, and the second portion 420 is located on one side of the second screen body 120. By partially removing material (such as carbon fiber plate) from the support layer 200, the rigidity of the bending region is significantly reduced, making it easier to bend with the deformation of the display panel 100, reducing bending resistance, and avoiding material fatigue cracking. The hollow design reduces the mass of the support layer 200 in the first bending region 12, meeting the lightweight requirements of foldable products, while maintaining the structural strength of the non-bending region 11. The hollow portion 240 guides the stress during bending to be dispersed along a specific path, avoiding stress concentration that could lead to localized fractures or microcracks, and extending the folding life. The split design allows the first screen 110 and the second screen 120 to move independently during folding, reducing interlayer shear stress caused by the continuous structure of the electrostatic discharge layer 400, avoiding interlayer peeling or breakage during bending, and improving folding reliability. The interval area provides buffer space for bending, preventing the rigid electrostatic discharge layer 400 from restricting folding deformation. The first section 410 and the second section 420 correspond to the non-bending areas 11 of the first screen 110 and the second screen 120, respectively, and selectively discharge static electricity from their respective areas, avoiding uneven electric field distribution caused by cross-regional charge migration. Through the partitioned design, static electricity accumulation at the edges of the non-bending areas 11 is reduced, lowering the risk of TFT characteristic shift caused by edge electric field distortion. The split structure reduces the material usage of the electrostatic discharge layer 400, reducing the overall weight of the module and meeting the lightweight requirements of foldable products.

[0112] Please see Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 9 This is an equivalent circuit diagram of a display module provided in the first aspect of this application.

[0113] like Figures 1 to 9As shown, under test conditions, a conductive tape is provided on the side of the cover plate assembly 300 facing away from the display panel 100, and a voltage of -1000V is provided to the conductive tape. A closed circuit is formed between the conductive tape and the display module 10. A first resistor R1 is formed between the conductive tape and the third sub-layer 230, and a second resistor R2 is formed between the third sub-layer 230 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400. The potential between the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 is the detection potential Vx. Given a fixed resistance value of the first resistor R1, the smaller the resistance value of the second resistor R2, the less likely the detection potential Vx is to be negative, and the slower the electron diffusion rate within the third sub-layer 230. The first sub-layer 210 of the carbon fiber is not conductive in the second direction Y, which increases the resistance value of the second resistor R2, making the potential Vx more negative. This is equivalent to the electric field effect on the back of the display panel 100 causing the brightness of the display panel 100 to deteriorate. Therefore, by setting a first conductive structure 500 on the outer edge of the display module 10, the amount of charge entering the third sub-layer 230 can be reduced. This is equivalent to the third sub-layer 230 having a better conductivity on the side away from the display panel 100, and the resistance value of the second resistor R2 is reduced. This improves the problem of the display panel 100's brightness deteriorating due to the electric field effect on the back of the display panel 100.

[0114] A second aspect of the present invention also provides a display device including the display module 10 of any of the first aspect embodiments described above. Since the display device provided by the second aspect of the present invention includes the display module 10 of any of the first aspect embodiments described above, the display device provided by the second aspect of the present invention has the beneficial effects of the display module 10 of any of the first aspect embodiments described above, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0115] The display devices in the embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, e-books, televisions, access control systems, smart landline phones, control consoles, and other devices with display functions.

[0116] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, an embodiment of the third aspect of this application provides a method for manufacturing a display module 10, the display module 10 having a first bending region 12 and non-bending regions 11 located on both sides of the first bending region 12 in a first direction X, the method comprising:

[0117] A support layer 200 is prepared, and a display panel 100 and a cover plate assembly 300 are sequentially prepared on one side of the support layer 200. The display panel 100 includes a first screen 110, a first bending portion 130, and a second screen 120. The first screen 110 and the second screen 120 are located on both sides of the first bending portion 130 in the first direction X and are located in the non-bending area 11. The first bending portion 130 is located in the first bending area 12. The first bending portion 130 is bendable so that the first screen 110 and the second screen 120 are either far apart from each other or close to each other.

[0118] An electrostatic discharge layer 400 is prepared on the side of the support layer 200 away from the display panel 100, and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 is grounded.

[0119] A first conductive structure 500 is provided on the outer edge of the display module 10. The first conductive structure 500 is sequentially connected to the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200 and the electrostatic discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y. The first direction X and the second direction Y intersect.

[0120] According to the manufacturing method of the display module 10 in this application embodiment, the display module 10 has a first bending region 12 and non-bending regions 11 located on both sides of the bending region in a first direction X. The display module 10 includes a support layer 200, a display panel 100, a cover plate assembly 300, an electrostatic discharge layer 400, and a first conductive structure 500. The display panel 100 includes a first screen body 110, a first bending portion 130, and a second screen body 120. The first bending portion 130 connects the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120. The display panel 100 can be bent at the first bending portion 130, so that the first screen body 110 and the second screen body 120 move closer to each other or further away from each other, realizing the folded display of the display module 10. The support layer 200 supports and protects the display panel 100. The cover plate assembly 300 encapsulates and protects the display panel 100. The first conductive structure 500 is simultaneously in contact with the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, the support layer 200, and the static discharge layer 400 in the second direction Y. This allows static electricity in the cover plate assembly 300, the display panel 100, and the support layer 200 to be conducted to the static discharge layer 400 through the first conductive structure 500 and released through the static discharge layer 400. This reduces static electricity entering each film layer, improves the situation where static electricity exists in the film layers on both sides of the display panel 100 and forms an electric field, causing the device characteristics of the display panel 100 to shift under the influence of the applied electric field, thus causing display defects and improving the performance of the display product.

[0121] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive, nor do they limit the invention to the specific embodiments described. Clearly, many modifications and variations can be made based on the above description. These embodiments are selected and specifically described in this specification to better explain the principles and practical applications of this application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to effectively utilize this application and its modifications. This application is limited only by the claims and their full scope and equivalents.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that, The display module has a first bending area and non-bending areas located on both sides of the first bending area in a first direction. The display module includes: Support layer; The display panel is located on one side of the support layer. The display panel includes a first screen, a first bent portion, and a second screen. The first screen and the second screen are located on both sides of the first bent portion in the first direction and in the non-bending area. The first bent portion is located in the first bending area. The first bent portion can be bent so that the first screen and the second screen are either far apart or close together. The cover plate assembly is located on the side of the display panel opposite to the support layer; An electrostatic discharge layer is located on the side of the support layer opposite to the display panel, and the electrostatic discharge layer is grounded; A first conductive structure is disposed on the outer edge of the display module. The first conductive structure is sequentially connected to the cover plate assembly, the display panel, the support layer and the electrostatic discharge layer in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect.

2. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support layer includes a first sub-layer, a second sub-layer, and a third sub-layer stacked together, with the third sub-layer located between the second sub-layer and the display panel; Preferably, the thickness of the first sub-layer is greater than that of the third sub-layer; Preferably, the material of the first sublayer includes a carbon-based material; Preferably, the material of the second sublayer includes a flexible material.

3. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The display module also includes: A second conductive structure is disposed on the outer edge of the display module, and the second conductive structure is sequentially contacted and connected to the first sub-layer and the electrostatic discharge layer in the second direction.

4. The display module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second conductive structure and the first conductive structure are spaced apart.

5. The display module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The material of the second conductive structure includes conductive silver paste; Preferably, the material of the first conductive structure includes a conductive liquid.

6. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer edge of the display module has a recessed portion that is recessed toward the interior of the display module, and the display module further includes: A third conductive structure is filled in the recess and in contact with the first conductive structure. Preferably, there are multiple recesses and multiple third conductive structures; Preferably, the material of the third conductive structure includes conductive silver paste.

7. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support layer has a hollowed-out portion within the first bending area; Preferably, there are multiple hollowed-out portions, which are spaced apart.

8. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrostatic discharge layer includes a first portion and a second portion located in the non-bending area and spaced apart from each other. The first portion is located on one side of the first screen body, and the second portion is located on one side of the second screen body. Preferably, the material of the electrostatic discharge layer includes a metallic material.

9. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display module also has a second bending area, which is located on the side of the non-bending area away from the first bending area in the first direction. The display panel also includes a second bending portion located in the second bending area and a third screen body located in the non-bending area. At least a portion of the second bending portion is bent and connected between the second screen body and the third screen body. The third screen body is located on the side of the electrostatic discharge layer away from the second screen body. Preferably, the first conductive structure is located on the side of the first screen body away from the second bent portion.

10. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display module as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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