Display device and electronic device including the same

Abstract

A display device and an electronic apparatus including the same are disclosed. The display device includes a substrate, a reinforcing member on a surface of the substrate, and a support plate on the reinforcing member. The support plate includes a first area having a plurality of first opening patterns corresponding to a first portion of the substrate, a second area connected to the first area and having a plurality of second opening patterns corresponding to a second portion of the substrate, and a third area connected to the second area and having a plurality of third opening patterns corresponding to a third portion of the substrate. A length direction of at least one of the plurality of first opening patterns and a length direction of at least one of the plurality of second opening patterns are the same as each other and in a first direction, and a length direction of at least one of the plurality of third opening patterns is different from the first direction.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and all benefits derived therefrom of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0054640, filed on April 25, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] One or more embodiments relate to devices, and more specifically, to display devices and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0003] Electronic devices for mobile use are now widely used. Recently, in addition to small electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablet PCs have become widely used as mobile electronic devices.

[0004] To support various functions, mobile electronic devices include display panels for providing users with visual information such as images or videos. Recently, as the size of the components used to drive these display panels has decreased, the proportion of display panels in electronic devices has been gradually increasing. Furthermore, structures that can be bent from a flat state to a predetermined angle have been developed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Typically, when a display panel undergoes bending, rolling, or sliding movements, a portion of the display panel may have a changed shape. In this case, various structures can be applied to the display panel to facilitate shape changes while supporting the display panel. In particular, an opening pattern can be arranged in the display panel to smoothly change the shape of the display panel. In this case, depending on the location and shape of the opening pattern, the opening pattern may be externally visible, or the surface on which the image is displayed may be curved. One or more embodiments include a display panel that reduces the external visibility of the opening pattern and an electronic device including the display panel.

[0006] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the embodiments presented in this disclosure.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a substrate having at least a selectively bent portion; a reinforcing member disposed on the substrate; and a support plate disposed on the reinforcing member. The support plate includes: a first region having a plurality of first opening patterns arranged to correspond to a first portion of the substrate; a second region connected to the first region and having a plurality of second opening patterns arranged to correspond to a second portion of the substrate; and a third region connected to the second region and having a plurality of third opening patterns arranged to correspond to a third portion of the substrate. Each of the plurality of first opening patterns, each of the plurality of second opening patterns, and each of the plurality of third opening patterns has a width and a length, the length being greater than the width, the length direction of at least one of the plurality of first opening patterns and the length direction of at least one of the plurality of second opening patterns being the same as each other and in a first direction, and the length direction of at least one of the plurality of third opening patterns being different from the first direction.

[0008] The length of some of the plurality of second opening patterns may decrease sequentially in a second direction away from the first region.

[0009] The length of each of the plurality of second opening patterns arranged in the second region may decrease by a specific value sequentially in the second direction.

[0010] The spacing between adjacent second opening patterns in a second direction different from the first direction can be increased in the second direction away from the first region.

[0011] The spacing between adjacent second opening patterns in the second direction can be in the range of 5 μm to 1 mm.

[0012] The interval between adjacent second opening patterns in the second direction can be increased by a specific value in the second direction away from the first region.

[0013] Some of the plurality of second opening patterns have a center arranged on an arbitrary straight line parallel to the width direction of the second opening pattern, and have corresponding ends arranged on oblique lines or curves.

[0014] The first opening patterns of the plurality of first opening patterns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction overlap each other at least partially in a second direction different from the first direction; and / or the second opening patterns of the plurality of second opening patterns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction may overlap each other at least partially in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0015] The angle between the length direction and the first direction of each of the plurality of third opening patterns can increase in the direction away from the second region.

[0016] The length direction of the third opening pattern located at the outermost edge of the third region among the plurality of third opening patterns may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0017] The spacing between adjacent first opening patterns arranged in a second direction different from the first direction among the plurality of first opening patterns can be constant.

[0018] The length of each of the plurality of third opening patterns may be less than the length of each of the plurality of first opening patterns.

[0019] The area of ​​the second zone can be 5% to 40% of the total area obtained by summing the areas of the first zone, the second zone, and the third zone.

[0020] The area of ​​the third region can be greater than 0% to 10% of the total area obtained by summing the areas of the first region, the second region, and the third region.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a substrate; a reinforcing member disposed on a lower surface of the substrate; and a support plate disposed on the lower surface of the reinforcing member. The support plate includes a variable area having a varied shape and wherein a plurality of opening patterns are arranged. Each of the plurality of opening patterns has a length and a width less than the length. Some of the plurality of opening patterns have a center arranged on a first straight line in a second direction different from the first direction, and the length direction of each of the plurality of opening patterns is parallel to the first direction. The plurality of opening patterns having a center arranged on the first straight line includes: a first group of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the first group of opening patterns is constant; and a second group of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the second group of opening patterns varies in the second direction, and a first subgroup of opening patterns included in the second group of opening patterns is arranged in a 2-1 pattern area, wherein the length of the first subgroup of opening patterns in the 2-1 pattern area is constant, and a second subgroup of opening patterns included in the second group of opening patterns is arranged in a 2-2 pattern area, wherein the length of the second subgroup of opening patterns in the 2-2 pattern area decreases sequentially in a direction away from the 2-1 pattern area.

[0022] The ends of the second subgroup opening pattern arranged in the pattern area 2-2 can be arranged on oblique lines or curves that are inclined relative to the second direction.

[0023] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a substrate; a reinforcing member disposed on a lower surface of the substrate; a support plate disposed on the lower surface of the reinforcing member; and an adhesive member disposed between the reinforcing member and the support plate. The support plate includes a variable region having a varied shape and arranged with a plurality of opening patterns. Some of the multiple opening patterns include: a first set of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the first set of opening patterns is constant; and a second set of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the second set of opening patterns varies in a second direction. The spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the second set of opening patterns increases in a direction away from the first set of opening patterns. The adhesive member includes an opening corresponding to the variable region.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments, an electronic device includes: a housing; a display device housed within the housing and being foldable or a portion of the display device being removable from a portion of the housing; and an input module disposed within the housing and receiving signals from a user.

[0025] The first area, the second area, and the third area can be arranged sequentially from one end of the housing to the other end of the housing.

[0026] The first area may be located inside the portion of the housing where the input module is located, and at least a portion of the first area may move inside the housing when the display device slides.

[0027] These and / or other aspects will become apparent and more readily understood from the following description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the control flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment;

[0030] Figures 2 to 4 This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0031] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0032] Figure 6A yes Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device;

[0033] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A schematic cross-sectional view of the reinforcing member illustrated in the figure;

[0034] Figure 7 yes Figure 6A A schematic plan view of the support plate illustrated in the figure;

[0035] Figures 8A to 8C yes Figure 7 A schematic plan view of the AR region shown in the example;

[0036] Figure 9 yes Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device;

[0037] Figures 10A to 10C yes Figure 9 A schematic plan view of a portion of the variable area illustrated in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to another embodiment;

[0039] Figure 12A and Figure 12B yes Figure 11 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device;

[0040] Figure 12C yes Figure 12A or Figure 12B A schematic plan view of the support plate;

[0041] Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to another embodiment;

[0042] Figure 14A yes Figure 13 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device;

[0043] Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A schematic plan view of the support plate shown in the figure;

[0044] Figure 15A yes Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 11 or Figure 13 A schematic plan view of the display panel and display circuit board of an electronic device illustrated in the figure;

[0045] Figure 15B yes Figure 15A A schematic side view of the display panel and display circuit board illustrated in the image;

[0046] Figure 16 yes Figure 15A A schematic plan view illustrating the display panel and display circuit board;

[0047] Figure 17 It is arranged in Figure 16 The equivalent circuit diagram of a sub-pixel in the display area of ​​the display panel; and

[0048] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display area of ​​the display panel. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. In this respect, present embodiments may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Accordingly, embodiments are described herein with reference to the figures to illustrate aspects of this specification. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout the disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0050] Because this disclosure allows for various modifications and numerous embodiments, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the written description. Hereinafter, the effects and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for implementing them, will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated. However, this disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0051] One or more embodiments will be described in more detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. Components that are identical or corresponding to each other are given the same reference numerals, independent of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0052] It will be understood that although this document may use terms such as "first," "second," etc., to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another.

[0053] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0054] It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein specify the presence of the stated features or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or components.

[0055] It will be understood that when a layer, zone, or component is said to be "formed on" another layer, zone, or component, it can be formed directly or indirectly on the other layer, zone, or component. That is, for example, an intermediary layer, zone, or component may exist.

[0056] The term "substantially" as used in this document means approximately or actually. The term "substantially equal" means approximately or actually equal. The term "substantially identical" means approximately or actually identical. The term "substantially perpendicular" means approximately or actually perpendicular. The term "substantially parallel" means approximately or actually parallel.

[0057] The terms “approximately” or “roughly” as used herein include the stated value and include an appropriate range of deviations from the particular value determined by a person skilled in the art considering the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity. For example, the terms “approximately” or “roughly” may mean within one or more standard deviations or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0058] For ease of explanation, the dimensions of the elements in the drawings may be enlarged or reduced. For example, since the dimensions and thicknesses of the parts in the drawings are arbitrarily illustrated for ease of explanation, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0059] In the following examples, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0060] When an embodiment can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence can be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the control flow of an electronic device 1 according to an embodiment.

[0062] refer to Figure 1 According to one embodiment, an electronic device 1 may include a display module 2 including a display device, a processor 3, a memory 4, and a power module 5.

[0063] Processor 3 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller. According to one embodiment, processor 3 may be provided as two or more processors divided in terms of function or architecture. For example, processor 3 may include a main processor in the form of a first driver chip containing a CPU and an auxiliary processor in the form of a second driver chip containing a controller that receives and processes image signals from the main processor to conform to the interface specifications of display module 2.

[0064] The memory 4 may include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The memory 4 may store data information for the operation of the processor 3 or the display module 2. When the processor 3 executes the application stored in the memory 4, image data signals and / or input control signals may be transmitted to the display module 2, and the display module 2 may process the received signals and output image information through the display screen.

[0065] The power module 5 may include a power supply module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power for the operation of the electronic device 1. The power conversion performed by the power conversion module may include, but is not limited to, DC-DC conversion, AC-DC conversion, and DC-AC conversion.

[0066] The electronic device 1 may further include an input module 6, a non-image output module 7, and / or a communication module 8.

[0067] Input module 6 can provide input information to processor 3 and / or display module 2. Input module 6 may include various sensor modules as well as physical buttons, keyboards, and microphones. Examples of sensor modules may include touch sensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, position sensors, digitizers, motion recognition sensors, camera sensors, light receiving sensors, photoelectric conversion sensors, and temperature sensors, as well as biosensors such as blood pressure sensors, blood glucose sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, and heart rate sensors.

[0068] The non-image output module 7 can receive information other than the image received from the processor 3 and can provide that information to the user. Examples of the non-image output module 7 may include a sound module, a tactile module, and a light-emitting module, and may include other functional modules specific to a particular electronic device (e.g., a cooling module for a refrigerator).

[0069] The communication module 8, which is responsible for sending and receiving information between the electronic device 1 and external devices, may include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The communication module 8 may include various wireless communication modules such as mobile communication modules, Wi-Fi modules, and Bluetooth modules, or various wired communication modules.

[0070] At least one of the components of the electronic device 1 described herein may be included in a display device according to the embodiments described herein. In some aspects, some of the separate modules that are functionally included within a module may be included in the display device, and other modules may be provided separately from the display device. For example, display module 2 may include the display device, and processor 3, memory 4, and power module 5 may be provided as other devices within the electronic device 1 rather than the display device. As another example, power module 5 may be provided within the display device and may supply power to processor 3 and memory 4 provided within the electronic device 1, other than the display device. However, embodiments are not limited to the examples described above.

[0071] Figures 2 to 4 This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0072] Figure 2 Examples of electronic devices include a smartphone 1_1a, a tablet PC 1_1b, a laptop computer 1_1c, a TV 1_1d, and a computer monitor 1_1e.

[0073] In addition to the display module 2, the smartphone 1_1a may also include an input module such as a touch sensor and a communication module. The smartphone 1_1a can process information received through the communication module or other input modules, and can display that information through the display device of the display module.

[0074] Similar to the smartphone 1_1a, the tablet PC 1_1b, laptop PC 1_1c, TV 1_1d, and computer monitor 1_1e may include a display module and an input module. In some cases, the tablet PC 1_1b, laptop PC 1_1c, TV 1_1d, and computer monitor 1_1e may further include a communication module.

[0075] Figure 3 This example illustrates an application of an electronic device including a display module in a wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device could be smart glasses 1_2a, a head-mounted display 1_2b, a smartwatch 1_2c, etc.

[0076] The smart glasses 1_2a and the head-mounted display 1_2b may include a display module for emitting a display image and a reflector for reflecting the emitted display image to provide the reflected result to the user's eyes, thereby providing the user with a virtual reality or augmented reality screen image.

[0077] The smartwatch 1_2c may include a biosensor as an input device and may provide the user with biometric information identified by the biosensor through a display module.

[0078] Figure 4 Examples of electronic devices including a display module being used in vehicles. For example, electronic device 1_3 can be used in a car's dashboard, center instrument panel, etc., or it can be used, for example, in a center information display (CID) located on a car's dashboard or in an interior mirror display that replaces a car's side mirrors.

[0079] Although not illustrated, electronic devices using display devices according to embodiments may include not only devices primarily performing screen display, such as billboards, electronic boards, and game consoles, but also various household appliances displaying information via display modules, such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, and robotic vacuum cleaners. In some aspects, when the display module has the function of transmitting light, the display module can be applied to electronic devices such as smart windows or transparent display devices that display both a background and a displayed image. The types of electronic devices according to embodiments are not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein, and applications of various other electronic devices are also possible.

[0080] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment. Figure 5A This is a perspective view of electronic device 1 in its unfolded state, and Figure 5B This is a perspective view of electronic device 1 in a folded state.

[0081] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5BElectronic device 1 is a device that displays moving or still images, and therefore examples of it can include a wide variety of products, such as not only portable electronic devices including mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs), but also televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Examples of electronic device 1 can also include wearable devices such as smartwatches, watch phones, glasses displays, and head-mounted displays (HMDs). Examples of electronic device 1 can also include a car's dashboard, a car's central information display (CID) on the center dashboard or instrument panel, an interior mirror display replacing a car's side mirrors, and a display for entertainment devices arranged behind the front seats to serve as a rear passenger entertainment system.

[0082] Electronic device 1 may include a display device comprising a display panel 50 and a lower cover 90 serving as a housing. The display panel 50 may include a display area DA for displaying an image and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. Subpixels P, including display elements, may be arranged in the display area DA. In this case, multiple subpixels P may be included and may be spaced apart from each other. Some of the multiple subpixels P, others, and still others may emit light beams of different colors. Electronic device 1 can provide an image by using the light emitted by the subpixels P arranged in the display area DA. The peripheral area PA may be a non-display area where no subpixels P are arranged.

[0083] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. Subpixels P may be arranged in each of the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3. The electronic device 1 can provide an image through the subpixels P arranged in the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3. The first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 may be surrounded by a peripheral area PA.

[0084] Display panel 50 displays (or outputs) information processed by electronic device 1. For example, display panel 50 may display execution screen information of an application being driven by electronic device 1, or it may display user interface (UI) and graphical user interface (GUI) information based on the execution screen information. Display panel 50 may include a display layer for displaying images and a touchscreen layer for sensing user touch input. Accordingly, display panel 50 may be used as one of the input devices providing an input interface between electronic device 1 and the user, and may also be used as one of the output units providing an output interface between electronic device 1 and the user.

[0085] Although an organic light-emitting display panel will now be illustrated and described as display panel 50, the display panel 50 according to this disclosure is not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the display panel 50 according to this disclosure may be an inorganic light-emitting display, a quantum dot light-emitting display, etc. For example, the emitting layer of the display element included in the display panel 50 may include organic materials, may include inorganic materials, may include quantum dots, may include organic materials and quantum dots, or may include inorganic materials and quantum dots.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the display panel 50 may be a flexible display panel, which is flexible and therefore can be easily bent, folded, or rolled. For example, the display panel 50 may be a foldable display panel, a curved display panel with a curved display surface, a bent display panel in which areas other than the display surface are bent, a rollable display panel, or a stretchable display panel. According to one embodiment, the display panel 50 may be a rigid display panel, which is rigid and therefore cannot be easily bent.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the display panel 50 may include a first folding axis FAX1 and a second folding axis FAX2. The display panel 50 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2.

[0088] The first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be defined by a first folding axis FAX1 extending between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. The second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 can be defined by a second folding axis FAX2 extending between the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3.

[0089] The lower cover 90 may form the lower exterior of the electronic device 1. The lower cover 90 may include plastic, metal, or both plastic and metal. The lower cover 90 may include a first lower cover portion 91, a second lower cover portion 92, and a third lower cover portion 93 that support the display panel 50. The lower cover 90 may be folded about a first folding axis FAX1 between the first lower cover portion 91 and the second lower cover portion 92. The lower cover 90 may also be folded about a second folding axis FAX2 between the second lower cover portion 92 and the third lower cover portion 93.

[0090] According to one embodiment, a first hinge portion 90A may be provided between a first lower cover portion 91 and a second lower cover portion 92, and a second hinge portion 90B may be provided between the second lower cover portion 92 and a third lower cover portion 93.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that they face each other. In other words, the first lower cover portion 91 and the second lower cover portion 92 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that they face each other. According to one embodiment, the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that they do not face each other.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they do not face each other. In other words, the second lower cover portion 92 and the third lower cover portion 93 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they do not face each other. According to one embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they face each other.

[0093] According to one embodiment, when the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are folded inward to face each other, the radius of curvature of the folded portion may be 5R (e.g., R=1mm) or smaller. Alternatively, when the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are folded inward to face each other, the radius of curvature of the folded portion may be 3R or smaller, or it may be 1R or smaller.

[0094] According to one embodiment, when the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 are folded outwards so that they do not face each other, the radius of curvature of the folded portion can be 5R or less. Alternatively, when the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 are folded outwards so that they do not face each other, the radius of curvature of the folded portion can be 4R or less.

[0095] Electronic device 1 may include a main circuit board. The main circuit board can be connected to... Figure 6A The display circuit board 30 can be provided separately or as an integral part. When the main circuit board and display circuit board 30 are provided separately for differentiation, they can be connected to each other using cables or the like. However, for ease of description, we will now focus on the case where the main circuit board and display circuit board 30 are provided separately and describe it in detail.

[0096] The main circuit board may include a main processor (not shown), a camera device (not shown), a main connector (not shown), and components (not shown). The main processor may be implemented as an integrated circuit (IC). The camera device may be disposed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the main circuit board, and each of the main processor and the main connector may be disposed on one of the upper and lower surfaces of the main circuit board.

[0097] The main processor can control all functions of electronic device 1. For example, the main processor can output digital video data to the display circuit board 30. Figure 6A The data driver 20 enables the display panel 50 to display an image. The main processor can receive sensing data from the touch sensor driver. The main processor can determine whether a user touch is present based on the sensing data and can perform operations corresponding to a direct or near touch by the user. For example, the main processor can calculate the user's touch coordinates by analyzing the sensing data and can then execute an application or operation indicated by the icon touched by the user. The main processor can be an application processor, a central processing unit, or a system-on-a-chip, each implemented as an IC.

[0098] The camera can process image frames, such as still images or videos, acquired by an image sensor in camera mode, and output the processed results to a main processor. The camera device may include at least one of a camera sensor (e.g., a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS)), a light sensor (or image sensor), and a laser sensor. The camera device may be connected to an image sensor within components overlapping with component areas and can process images input to the image sensor.

[0099] The cable that has passed through the cable hole in the bracket can be connected to the main connector, and thus the main circuit board can be electrically connected to the display circuit board.

[0100] In addition to the main processor, camera device, and main connector, the main circuit board may further include at least one component included in the wireless communication unit, at least one component included in the input unit, at least one component included in the sensor unit, at least one component included in the output unit, at least one component included in the interface unit, memory, and power supply.

[0101] The wireless communication unit may include at least one of a broadcast receiving module, a mobile communication module, a wireless internet module, a short-range communication module, and a location information module.

[0102] The broadcast receiving module can receive broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel can be a satellite channel, a ground wave channel, etc.

[0103] The mobile communication module can transmit or receive radio signals to or from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network established according to technical standards or communication methods used for mobile communications, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Code Division Multiple Access 2000 (CDMA2000), Enhanced Voice Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and LTE-A Advanced (LTE-A)). Examples of radio signals may include voice call signals, video call signals, and various types of data transmitted according to text and / or multimedia messages.

[0104] A wireless internet module can refer to a module used for wireless internet access. A wireless internet module can be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals in a communication network based on wireless internet technologies. Wireless internet technologies can be, for example, Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and / or the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA).

[0105] The short-range communication module is used for short-range communication, and therefore, it can be used with Bluetooth. ® The short-range communication module supports at least one of the following technologies: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless Universal Serial Bus (Wireless USB). The short-range communication module can support wireless communication between electronic device 1 and a wireless communication system, between electronic device 1 and another electronic device, or between electronic device 1 and the network where another electronic device (or an external server) is located, via a wireless local area network (WLAN). The WLAN can be a wireless personal area network (WPAN). The other electronic device can be a wearable device capable of exchanging data (or interoperating) with electronic device 1.

[0106] A location information module is included to obtain the location (or current location) of electronic device 1, and therefore, representative examples of location information modules include Global Positioning System (GPS) modules and WiFi modules. For example, when using a GPS module, electronic device 1 can obtain its location by using signals transmitted by GPS satellites. When using a WiFi module, electronic device 1 can obtain its location based on information from a wireless access point (AP) that transmits or receives wireless signals to or from the WiFi module. Because the location information module is used to obtain the location (or current location) of electronic device 1, it is not limited to modules that directly calculate or obtain the location of electronic device 1.

[0107] The input unit may include an image input unit such as a camera device for inputting image signals, an audio input unit such as a microphone for inputting audio signals, and an input device for receiving information from a user.

[0108] The camera device processes image frames, such as still images or videos, acquired by the image sensor in video call mode or image capture mode. The processed image frames corresponding to the processing results can be displayed on the display panel 50 or stored in memory.

[0109] The microphone processes external audio signals into electronic audio data. This electronic audio data can be used in various ways, depending on the function (or application) currently being executed in electronic device 1. Various noise removal algorithms for removing noise generated during the reception of external audio signals can be implemented in the microphone.

[0110] The main processor can control the operation of electronic device 1 to correspond to information input via input devices. Input devices may include mechanical input units or touch input units, such as buttons, dome switches, microwheels, and microswitches, each located on the rear or side surface of electronic device 1. Touch input units may be implemented as a touchscreen layer of display panel 50.

[0111] The sensor unit may include at least one sensor that senses at least one of information within the electronic device 1, information about the surrounding environment of the electronic device 1, and user information, and generates a sensing signal corresponding to one or more of the information. Based on such sensing signals, the main processor may control the driving or operation of the electronic device 1, or may perform data processing, functions, or operations associated with applications provided in the electronic device 1. The sensor unit may include at least one of proximity sensors, lighting sensors, accelerometers, magnetic sensors, gravity (G) sensors, gyroscope sensors, motion sensors, RGB sensors, infrared (IR) sensors, finger scanning sensors, ultrasonic sensors, optical sensors, battery gauges, environmental sensors (e.g., barometers, hygrometers, thermometers, radiation sensors, thermal sensors, and gas sensors), and chemical sensors (e.g., electronic noses, health sensors, and biometric sensors).

[0112] A proximity sensor is a sensor that detects the presence of an object approaching or in the vicinity of a predetermined sensing surface without mechanical contact, using electromagnetic force or infrared light. Examples of proximity sensors include transmissive photoelectric sensors, direct reflective photoelectric sensors, specular reflective photoelectric sensors, high-frequency oscillation proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, magnetic proximity sensors, and infrared proximity sensors. Proximity sensors can sense not only proximity touch operations but also proximity touch patterns such as proximity touch distance, proximity touch direction, proximity touch speed, proximity touch time, proximity touch position, or proximity touch movement state. The main processor can process the data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touch operations and proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor and can control the visual information corresponding to the processed data to be displayed on the display panel 50.

[0113] Ultrasonic sensors can identify the position of an object using ultrasonic waves. The main processor can calculate the object's position based on information sensed by optical sensors and multiple ultrasonic sensors. Because the speed of light differs from the speed of ultrasound, the object's position can be calculated using the time it takes for light to reach the optical sensor and the time it takes for ultrasound waves to reach the ultrasonic sensor.

[0114] The output unit generates an output associated with vision, hearing, or touch, and therefore may include at least one of a display panel 50, an audio output unit, a haptic module, and an optical output unit.

[0115] The audio output unit can output audio data received from the wireless communication unit or stored in memory in modes such as call signal receiving mode, call or recording mode, voice recognition mode, and broadcast receiving mode. The audio output unit also outputs audio signals related to the functions performed by the electronic device 1 (e.g., call signal receiving sound or message receiving sound). The audio output unit may include a receiver and a speaker. At least one of the receiver and speaker may be an audio generating device attached to the lower portion of the display panel 50 and vibrating the display panel 50 to output audio. The audio generating device may be a piezoelectric element or piezoelectric actuator that contracts and expands according to an electrical signal, or it may be an exciter that generates magnetic force by using a voice coil and vibrates the display panel 50.

[0116] The haptic module generates various tactile effects that the user can perceive. It can provide vibrations as a tactile effect. The intensity and pattern of the vibrations generated by the haptic module can be controlled according to user selection or main processor settings. For example, the haptic module can synthesize different vibrations and output the synthesized result, or it can output different vibrations sequentially. In addition to vibrations, the haptic module can also generate various other tactile effects, such as those produced by pin arrangements moving vertically relative to the skin surface, the jetting or suction of air through nozzles or inlets, the grazing of the skin surface, electrode contact, and stimulation such as electrostatic forces, as well as effects produced by reproducing cold and warm sensations through the use of heat-absorbing and heat-releasing elements. The haptic module can transmit tactile effects through direct contact and can also be implemented so that the user can perceive the tactile effects through muscle sensations such as those in the fingers or arms.

[0117] The light output unit outputs a signal to notify of an event by using light from a light source. Examples of events generated in electronic device 1 may include message reception, call signal reception, missed calls, alarms, calendar notifications, email reception, and information reception via an application. The signal output by the light output unit is realized when electronic device 1 emits light of a single color or a beam of multiple colors onto its front or rear surface. The output of the signal can be terminated when electronic device 1 senses a user confirmation event.

[0118] The interface unit acts as a channel for various types of external devices connected to electronic device 1. The interface unit may include at least one of the following: a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device including an identification module, an audio input / output (I / O) port, a video I / O port, and a headphone port. In an example where an external device is connected to the interface unit, electronic device 1 can perform appropriate control associated with the connected external device.

[0119] The memory stores data supporting various functions of the electronic device 1. The memory can store multiple applications driven by the electronic device 1, multiple data sets for the operation of the electronic device 1, and instructions. At least some of the multiple applications can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. The memory can store applications for the operation of the main processor and can temporarily store input / output data, such as phone books, messages, still images, and moving images. The memory can also store tactile data for various vibration modes provided to the tactile module and audio data regarding various sounds provided to the audio output unit. The memory can include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, solid-state drive (SSD), silicon disk drive (SDD), multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., Secure Digital (SD) or Extreme Digital (XD) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0120] Under the control of the main processor, the power supply can receive external and internal power and supply both to components included in electronic device 1. The power supply may include a battery. The power supply includes a connection port, which may be an example of an interface unit to which an external charger supplying power to charge the battery is electrically connected. Alternatively, the power supply can be configured to wirelessly charge the battery without using the connection port. The battery can receive power from an external wireless power transmission device using at least one of an inductive coupling method based on magnetic induction and a magnetic resonance coupling method based on electromagnetic resonance. The battery may be arranged so that it does not overlap with the main circuit board in a third direction (e.g., the z-axis direction).

[0121] Figure 6A yes Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of electronic device 1. Figure 6A It is along Figure 5A The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A' in the diagram. Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A schematic cross-sectional view of the reinforcing member 60 is shown in the figure. Figure 7 yes Figure 6A A schematic plan view of the support plate 70 shown in the figure.

[0122] refer to Figures 6A to 7 Display device 200 (see Figure 13It may include an anti-reflective layer PF, a cover member 10, a data driver 20, a display circuit board 30, a panel protection member PFI, a functional layer 42, a display panel 50, a reinforcing member 60, a support plate 70, a first adhesive member 81, a second adhesive member 82, a third adhesive member 83, a fourth adhesive member 84, and a fifth adhesive member 85.

[0123] An antireflective layer PF may be disposed on the cover member 10. The antireflective layer PF may be included as a polarizing film. The polarizing film may include a linear polarizer and a phase retardation film such as a quarter-wavelength (λ / 4) plate. The phase retardation film may be disposed on the cover member 10, and the linear polarizer may be disposed on the phase retardation film.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the antireflective layer PF may include a destructive interference structure. The destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer disposed on different layers. The first reflected light and the second reflected light, reflected by the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer respectively, can interfere destructively with each other, and thus can reduce the reflectivity of external light.

[0125] The cover member 10 can be disposed on the display panel 50. According to one embodiment, the cover member 10 can cover the upper part of the display panel 50. Therefore, the cover member 10 can protect the upper surface of the display panel 50.

[0126] Although not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, according to one embodiment, the cover member 10 may include a transmissive cover unit corresponding to the display panel 50 and a light-blocking cover unit corresponding to areas other than the display panel 50. The light-blocking cover unit may include an opaque material that blocks light. The light-blocking cover unit may include a pattern that is visible to the user when no image is displayed.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the cover member 10 may include at least one layer. For example, the at least one layer may include glass, transparent synthetic resin, etc.

[0128] The cover member 10 may include a light-blocking layer 10A disposed on one surface thereon. According to one embodiment, the light-blocking layer 10A may be disposed on the edge of the cover member 10. The light-blocking layer 10A may include black ink. Although not illustrated in the figures, in addition to being disposed on one surface of the cover member 10, the light-blocking layer 10A may also be configured to be inserted into the interior of the cover member 10. In this case, the cover member 10 may include at least two layers, and the light-blocking layer 10A may be disposed between the at least two layers.

[0129] The second adhesive member 82 may be disposed on the cover member 10. The second adhesive member 82 may be a transparent adhesive member such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or optically clear adhesive (OCA) film. The second adhesive member 82 may fix the cover member 10 to the anti-reflective layer PF.

[0130] The display panel 50 may be disposed below the cover member 10. The display panel 50 may be connected to the display circuit board 30. Although not illustrated in the figures, embodiments of this disclosure support implementations in which the touch sensor driver and data driver 20 are arranged on the display circuit board 30. According to another embodiment, the data driver 20 may be disposed directly on the substrate 100 of the display panel 50 as shown in the figures (see figure 100). Figure 18 The touch sensor driver can be disposed on the display circuit board 30. At least a first portion of the substrate 100 of the display panel 50 described herein can be bent (e.g., selectively bent). In this case, a bend protection layer BPL can be disposed on the bent portion of the substrate 100 to prevent cracks, etc., in the substrate 100. The bend protection layer BPL may comprise a polymer resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), etc.

[0131] The bend protection layer (BPL) can be set to shield the bend area of ​​the display panel 50.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the functional layer 42 may be disposed on the display panel 50, and the protective member PFI may be disposed below the display panel 50. In this case, the functional layer 42 may be disposed between the cover member 10 and the display panel 50. The upper portion of the display panel 50 may include a touchscreen layer for receiving touch signals from the user.

[0133] According to one embodiment, functional layer 42 may include a damping layer. In this case, the damping layer can protect structures such as the display panel 50 beneath the damping layer from external impacts. According to one embodiment, the damping layer may be a polymer film. The polymer film may include at least one of, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethersulfone (PES), polyimide (PI), polyarylate (PAR), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) resins.

[0134] According to one embodiment, functional layer 42 may include a touch sensor layer and a damping layer. In this case, the anti-reflective layer and the damping layer may be stacked sequentially on the display panel 50.

[0135] Functional layer 42 can define the position of the ends of the bending protective layer BPL. That is, when the bending protective layer BPL is formed, it can be formed in resin form and supplied to the substrate 100 of the display panel 50. In this case, because the bending protective layer BPL is a fluid, it is not located in a fixed position on the display panel 50, but can move in various directions on the display panel 50. However, when functional layer 42 is disposed on the display panel 50, the ends of functional layer 42 can prevent the bending protective layer BPL from flowing into the area of ​​the display panel 50 where functional layer 42 is disposed, and can also limit the area to which the bending protective layer BPL flows. Therefore, the bending protective layer BPL can be disposed in the peripheral area PA of the display panel 50, rather than in the display area DA.

[0136] The functional layer 42 can be directly disposed on the display panel 50. According to another embodiment, a separate adhesive member can be disposed between the functional layer 42 and the display panel 50. In this case, the adhesive member can be a transparent adhesive member such as a PSA or OCA film.

[0137] The cover member 10 may be disposed on the functional layer 42. The cover member 10 may be attached to the functional layer 42 by means of a first adhesive member 81. According to one embodiment, the first adhesive member 81 may be a transparent adhesive member such as a PSA or OCA film.

[0138] According to one embodiment, a protective member PFI may be disposed below the display panel 50. In this case, the protective member PFI can absorb impacts applied from outside the display device 200. In this case, an opening region PFI_OP may be arranged in the protective member PFI to correspond to a bending region of the display panel 50, which will be described later. In this case, the width of the opening region PFI_OP may be smaller than the width of the bending region. The protective member PFI may comprise a polymer material. Although not illustrated in the figures, an adhesive material may be disposed between the protective member PFI and the display panel 50. In this case, the adhesive material may be a transparent adhesive material such as a PSA or OCA film.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing member 60 may be disposed below the protective member PFI to support the display panel 50.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing member 60 may include a core layer 61 and an outer layer 62. The outer layer 62 may be disposed on two side surfaces of the core layer 61. The core layer 61 may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), and / or colorless PI. The outer layer 62 may include resins (such as acrylic, urethane, or epoxy resins) and carbon black pigments, and may block or reflect external light.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing member 60 can be attached to the protective member PFI via a third adhesive member 83. According to one embodiment, the third adhesive member 83 can be a transparent adhesive member such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or optically clear adhesive (OCA) film.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing member 60 and the support plate 70 can be adhered to each other by a fourth adhesive member 84. According to one embodiment, the fourth adhesive member 84 can be a PSA, OCA film, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the fourth adhesive member 84 may be located below the reinforcing member 60.

[0144] According to one embodiment, a support plate 70 may be disposed below the display panel 50. The support plate 70 may include metal, plastic (such as polyurethane), carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), and / or graphite.

[0145] According to one embodiment, a support plate 70 may include a first portion 70-1, a second portion 70-2, a third portion 70-3, and a fourth portion 70-4. According to one embodiment, the first portion 70-1 of the support plate 70 may at least partially overlap with a first display area DA1, and the second portion 70-2 of the support plate 70 may at least partially overlap with a second display area DA2. The third portion 70-3 of the support plate 70 may at least partially overlap with a third display area DA3. The fourth portion 70-4, disposed between the first portion 70-1 and the second portion 70-2 of the support plate 70, may at least partially overlap with a first folding area FA1, and the fourth portion 70-4, disposed between the second portion 70-2 and the third portion 70-3 of the support plate 70, may at least partially overlap with a second folding area FA2.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the first portion 70-1 and the second portion 70-2 of the support plate 70 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction), with a first folding axis FAX1 between the first portion 70-1 and the second portion 70-2. The second portion 70-2 and the third portion 70-3 of the support plate 70 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction), with a second folding axis FAX2 between the second portion 70-2 and the third portion 70-3. A fourth portion 70-4 may connect the first portion 70-1 to the second portion 70-2 and may connect the second portion 70-2 to the third portion 70-3. In this case, each of the fourth portions 70-4 may be a variable area that deforms when the display panel 50 is folded along the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. When the support plate 70 deforms, a plurality of opening patterns 71 arranged separately from each other can help the fourth portions 70-4 corresponding to the first folding axis FAX1 and / or the second folding axis FAX2 to deform smoothly.

[0147] The fourth part 70-4 of the variable area may include a first pattern area (also referred to as the first area) 70-4A with a first opening pattern 71A and a second pattern area (also referred to as the second area) 70-4B with a second opening pattern 71B. The first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B may be arranged separately from each other. In this case, the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B may each be perpendicular to the... Figure 5A The display panel 50 is formed into an elongated hole shape along its length. That is, the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B can each have a rectangular shape with length and width, and can have rounded corners. The length of the first opening pattern 71A can be greater than its width, and the length of the second opening pattern 71B can be greater than its width. In this case, the length can be... Figure 7 Measured along the y-axis, and the width can be... Figure 7 Measured in the x-axis direction. In some embodiments, the first opening pattern 71A may be arranged with respect to the substrate 100 (see...). Figure 18 The first part corresponds to the first pattern area 70-4A, and the second opening pattern 71B can be arranged to correspond to the second part of the substrate 100. In some embodiments, the second pattern area 70-4B can be connected to the first pattern area 70-4A.

[0148] The first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B can be arranged symmetrically about the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. That is, based on the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2, the first pattern area 70-4A can be adjacent to the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2, and the first pattern area 70-4A can be arranged between the first folding axis FAX1 and the second pattern area 70-4B or between the second folding axis FAX2 and the second pattern area 70-4B. In this case, based on the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2, the first pattern area 70-4A can be located on both sides of the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2.

[0149] The support plate 70 may include recessed portions 75 disposed at both ends of the fourth portion 70-4. The recessed portions 75 may be in the form of grooves recessed from the lower surface of the support plate 70. When the support plate 70 is folded together with the display panel 50, the recessed portions 75 may adapt to the deformation of the support plate 70 at the points where the curvature of the support plate 70 changes.

[0150] The fourth adhesive component 84 can be disposed between the support plate 70 and the reinforcing component 60. The fourth adhesive component 84 can be a PSA, OCA film, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0151] The fourth adhesive member 84 may include an opening 84A corresponding to the fourth portion 70-4. In this case, when folded through the opening 84A, the fourth adhesive member 84 can reduce interference with the movement of the support plate 70 or the reinforcing member 60. The opening 84A may have a hole or groove shape.

[0152] The display circuit board 30 can be secured to the support plate 70 via a fifth adhesive member 85. Although not illustrated in the figures, a bracket for accommodating the display device 200 can be disposed between the display circuit board 30 and the support plate 70, and the display circuit board 30 can also be secured to the rear surface of the bracket. The fifth adhesive member 85 can be a PSA, OCA film, or TPU.

[0153] Figure 8A yes Figure 7 The diagram shows a schematic plan view of the AR region.

[0154] refer to Figure 8A Part 4, section 70-4, may include multiple opening patterns. Some of these opening patterns may be arranged in a column and may form a group of opening patterns. The centers of the multiple opening patterns arranged in the group of opening patterns may be arranged parallel to the second direction (e.g., Figure 8A and Figure 8BAlong a straight line (the x-axis direction, the width direction of the opening pattern, or a direction perpendicular to the folding axis). Part 4 70-4 may include multiple groups of opening patterns. For example, such as Figure 8A As shown, the open pattern groups can be arranged in the first, second, third, and fourth columns, respectively. In this case, the open pattern groups arranged in different columns can overlap each other in the second direction. For example, the open pattern groups arranged in the first column and the open pattern groups arranged in the second column can overlap each other in the second direction, the open pattern groups arranged in the second column and the open pattern groups arranged in the third column can overlap each other in the second direction, and the open pattern groups arranged in the third column and the open pattern groups arranged in the fourth column can overlap each other in the second direction. In this case, an open pattern in one of an adjacent open pattern group can be arranged between open patterns in the other of an adjacent open pattern group.

[0155] The center of the opening pattern in each group of opening patterns can be arranged on any straight line parallel to the second direction. For example, the center of the opening pattern in the group of opening patterns in the first column can be arranged on the first straight line ST1, and the center of the opening pattern in the group of opening patterns in the second column can be arranged on the second straight line ST2.

[0156] Each open pattern group may include a first pattern area 70-4A and a second pattern area 70-4B.

[0157] The first pattern area 70-4A may include a first opening pattern 71A arranged separately from each other in a second direction. The second pattern area 70-4B may include a second opening pattern 71B arranged separately from each other in a second direction.

[0158] The first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B can be identical to each other. In other words, the length of the first opening pattern 71A can be the same as the length of the second opening pattern 71B, and the width of the first opening pattern 71A can be the same as the width of the second opening pattern 71B.

[0159] In the second direction, which is the width direction of the first opening pattern 71A, the first spacing WD1 between adjacent first opening patterns 71A is all equal to each other in the first pattern area 70-4A, and in a first direction different from the second direction (e.g., Figure 8A The spacing between adjacent first opening patterns 71A in the y-axis direction, the length direction of the opening pattern, or the direction parallel to the folding axis can all be equal in the first pattern area 70-4A. In this case, the first direction can be the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B.

[0160] The second interval WD2 between adjacent second opening patterns 71B in the second direction can vary. For example, the second interval WD2 can increase in the direction away from the first pattern region 70-4A. In this case, the second interval WD2 can increase by a specific value sequentially in the direction away from the first pattern region 70-4A. In an example where the specific value of the increase in the second interval WD2 is 5 μm, the first interval WD1 is 100 μm, and six second opening patterns 71B are arranged in the second pattern region 70-4B, the first and second intervals WD2 can be 105 μm. In an example where the second interval WD2 increases by 5 μm sequentially, the second interval WD2 can be 110 μm, the third interval WD2 can be 115 μm, the fourth interval WD2 can be 120 μm, and the fifth interval WD2 can be 125 μm.

[0161] In this case, the second interval WD2 between the second opening patterns 71B arranged at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B can be the largest in the second pattern area 70-4B. In this case, the maximum value of the second interval WD2 can be 1 mm or less. In some embodiments, the second interval WD2 can be in the range of 5 μm to 1 mm. In an example where the maximum value of the second interval WD2 exceeds 1 mm, the flatness of the display panel 50 changes rapidly at the portion corresponding to the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B, making the point of change in the flatness of the display panel 50 identifiable from the outside.

[0162] At least some of the first opening patterns 71A and second opening patterns 71B arranged in different columns can overlap each other. In this case, the area of ​​the first opening patterns 71A and second opening patterns 71B overlapping each other in the second direction can be less than about 50% of the area of ​​the first opening pattern 71A or the second opening pattern 71B. For example, when the first opening pattern 71A arranged in the first column and the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the second column overlap each other in the second direction, the overlap length of the first opening pattern 71A or the overlap length of the second opening pattern 71B can be less than about 50% of the length of the first opening pattern 71A or the second opening pattern 71B. In this case, when the area of ​​the first opening pattern 71A or the second opening pattern 71B overlapping each other in the second direction is 50% or greater, the rigidity of the support plate 70 may be reduced, or the display panel 50 may not be supported by the fourth part 70-4. In some embodiments, in the first direction (e.g., Figure 8A The first opening patterns 71A that are adjacent to each other in the y-axis direction can be in the second direction (e.g., Figure 8AThe second opening patterns 71B that are adjacent to each other in the first direction may at least partially overlap each other in the second direction.

[0163] When the spacing between the second opening patterns 71B increases, the curvature of the surface of the display panel 50 disposed on the support plate 70 at the outermost edge of the fourth portion 70-4 can be reduced. Accordingly, visual recognition of the second opening pattern 71B at the outermost edge of the fourth portion 70-4 or visual recognition of the curvature of the surface of the display panel 50 can be reduced.

[0164] In this case, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 40% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region 70-4A and the second pattern region 70-4B. In an example where the amount of increase in the second spacing WD2 between the second opening patterns 71B spaced apart from each other in the second pattern region 70-4B is 10 μm or less, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 40% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region 70-4A and the second pattern region 70-4B. According to another embodiment, when the amount of increase in the second spacing WD2 is 10 μm or less, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 20% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region 70-4A and the second pattern region 70-4B. In this situation, when the proportion of the second pattern area 70-4B in the sum of the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B is too large (e.g., above the threshold proportion), the deformation of the support plate 70 may be hindered, and when the proportion of the second pattern area 70-4B in the sum of the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B is too small (e.g., below the threshold proportion), the surface of the support plate 70 at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B may be bent.

[0165] Figure 8B yes Figure 7 The diagram shows a schematic plan view of the AR region.

[0166] refer to Figure 8B Each opening pattern group in the fourth part 70-4 may include a first pattern area 70-4A containing a plurality of first opening patterns 71A corresponding to the first group and a second pattern area 70-4B containing a plurality of second opening patterns 71B corresponding to the second group. In this case, the first opening patterns 71A and the first pattern area 70-4A are consistent with those referenced herein. Figure 8A The first opening pattern 71A and the first pattern area 70-4A described are the same or similar, and therefore, their detailed description is omitted here.

[0167] The second interval WD2 between adjacent second opening patterns 71B in the second direction can be increased sequentially. The second pattern area 70-4B can be configured such that multiple second opening patterns 71B can be spaced apart from each other. In this case, the second pattern area 70-4B may include a 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA and a 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB. In the 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA, a second opening pattern 71B (e.g., a first subgroup opening pattern) with the same dimensions as the first opening pattern 71A (e.g., the same length and the same width) (i.e., a constant length) and a second interval WD2 with the same first interval WD1 is arranged. In the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB, a second opening pattern 71B (e.g., a second subgroup opening pattern) with dimensions different from the first opening pattern 71A and a second interval WD2 with a different first interval WD1 is arranged.

[0168] In the above scenario, the width of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be the same as the width of the first opening pattern 71A, and the length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be different from the length of the first opening pattern 71A. For example, the length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be less than the length of the first opening pattern 71A. The length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can decrease sequentially in the direction away from the first pattern area 70-4A or the 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA. That is, the length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B and farthest from the first pattern area 70-4A can be the smallest among the various lengths of the multiple second opening patterns 71B arranged in the second pattern area 70-4B. In this case, the length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be reduced by a specific value in the second direction from the length of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA. In an example where the length of one second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB is 1000 μm, the length of another second opening pattern 71B spaced apart from that one second opening pattern 71B in the second direction can be 950 μm. The length of yet another second opening pattern 71B spaced apart from the other second opening pattern 71B in the second direction can be 900 μm. That is, the length of the second opening pattern 71B included in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be reduced by 50 μm each time in the second direction away from the 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA. In the above case, the end of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can be arranged on a straight line in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB. In this case, the straight line can be oblique relative to the second direction.

[0169] Some of the plurality of second opening patterns 71B described herein can be arranged in a column, and others of the plurality of second opening patterns 71B can be arranged in another column adjacent to that column. In this case, the centers of the plurality of second opening patterns 71B arranged in the same column can be arranged on any first straight line ST1 parallel to the second direction.

[0170] Some of the plurality of second opening patterns 71B arranged in one column and others of the plurality of second opening patterns 71B arranged in another column can be arranged to overlap each other in the second direction. Accordingly, the reduction in strength of the fourth part can be reduced, and the deformation of the fourth part will not be interfered with.

[0171] For example, the centers of a plurality of first open patterns 71A arranged in another column and the centers of a plurality of second open patterns 71B can be arranged on a second straight line ST2 parallel to the first straight line ST1. The plurality of first open patterns 71A arranged on the second straight line ST2 can form another first pattern area 70-4A' of a third group, and the plurality of second open patterns 71B arranged on the second straight line ST2 can form another second pattern area 70-4B' of a fourth group. In this case, the other first pattern area 70-4A' can be similar to the first pattern area 70-4A.

[0172] Another second pattern area 70-4B' may include another 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA' in which second opening patterns 71B of the same size and different second intervals WD2 in the second direction are arranged, and another 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB' in which second opening patterns 71B of different sizes and different second intervals WD2 in the second direction are arranged. In this case, the second opening pattern 71B included in the other 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA' may be arranged to overlap with the second opening pattern 71B included in the 2-1 pattern area 70-4BA. At least one of the second opening patterns 71B included in the other 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB' may be arranged to overlap with at least one of the second opening patterns 71B included in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB. In this case, at least one of the second opening patterns 71B included in the other 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB' may not overlap with at least one of the second opening patterns 71B included in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB.

[0173] In the above scenario, in Part 4 70-4, the opening pattern centered on the first straight line ST1 and the opening pattern centered on the second straight line ST2 can be arranged alternately in the first direction. In this case, the space between adjacent opening patterns can be shielded by at least one of the opening patterns arranged in another column between adjacent opening patterns. For example, in Figure 8B In this configuration, at least one of the first opening pattern 71A or the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the second column can be positioned between the first opening pattern 71A arranged in the first and third columns, and between some of the second opening patterns 71B arranged in the first and third columns. In this case, the second straight line ST2 can pass through the center of the opening pattern arranged in the second column between the first and third columns.

[0174] In the above case, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be compared with that referenced in this article. Figure 8A The area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B described is the same.

[0175] Figure 8C yes Figure 7 The diagram shows a schematic plan view of the AR region.

[0176] refer to Figure 8C Each opening pattern group in the fourth part 70-4 may include a first pattern area 70-4A containing a plurality of first opening patterns 71A corresponding to the first group and a second pattern area 70-4B containing a plurality of second opening patterns 71B corresponding to the second group. In this case, the first opening patterns 71A and the first pattern area 70-4A are consistent with those referenced herein. Figure 8A The first opening pattern 71A and the first pattern area 70-4A described are the same or similar, and therefore, their detailed description is omitted here.

[0177] The second interval WD2 between adjacent second opening patterns 71B in the second direction can increase sequentially. The second pattern region 70-4B can be configured such that multiple second opening patterns 71B can be spaced apart from each other. In this case, the second pattern region 70-4B may include a 2-1 pattern region 70-4BA and a 2-2 pattern region 70-4BB. In the 2-1 pattern region 70-4BA, a second opening pattern 71B having the same dimensions as the first opening pattern 71A (e.g., the same length and the same width) and a second interval WD2 different from the first interval WD1 is arranged. In the 2-2 pattern region 70-4BB, a second opening pattern 71B having a different dimensions than the first opening pattern 71A and a second interval WD2 different from the first interval WD1 is arranged. In this case, the shape of the second opening patterns 71B arranged in the 2-1 pattern region 70-4BA and the 2-2 pattern region 70-4BB is similar to that referenced herein. Figure 8B The shape of the second opening pattern 71B described is similar, so its detailed description will be omitted. In the above case, the ends of the second opening pattern 71B arranged in the 2-2 pattern area 70-4BB can form curves.

[0178] In the above case, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be compared with that referenced in this article. Figure 8A The areas of the second pattern region 70-4B described are the same. In some aspects, the centers of the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B can be as follows: Figure 8A or Figure 8B The figures shown are arranged on the same straight line.

[0179] Figure 9 yes Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of electronic device 1. Figure 9 It is along Figure 5A The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A' in the diagram.

[0180] refer to Figure 9 Display device 200 (see Figure 13 The display panel may include an anti-reflective layer PF, a cover member 10, a data driver 20, a display circuit board 30, a panel protection member PFI, a functional layer 42, a display panel 50, a reinforcing member 60, a support plate 70, a first adhesive member 81, a second adhesive member 82, a third adhesive member 83, a fourth adhesive member 84, and a fifth adhesive member 85. In this case, the anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84, and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same as those referenced herein. Figure 6A The anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84 and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same or similar, therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0181] The support plate 70 may include a first part 70-1, a second part 70-2, a third part 70-3, and a fourth part 70-4. In this case, the first part 70-1, the second part 70-2, and the third part 70-3 may be as referenced herein. Figure 6A and Figure 7 The first part 70-1, the second part 70-2, and the third part 70-3 are the same or similar.

[0182] Part 4, 70-4 can be compared with Figure 5A At least a portion of at least one of the first folded region FA1 and the second folded region FA2 illustrated herein overlaps. The fourth portion 70-4 may include a first patterned region 70-4A, a second patterned region 70-4B, and a third patterned region (also referred to as the third area) 70-4C. In some embodiments, the first patterned region 70-4A, the second patterned region 70-4B, and the third patterned region 70-4C may be accessible from the lower cover 90 (see...). Figure 5A One end of the cover is downwards, and the other end is arranged sequentially. In this case, the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B can be compared with those referenced herein. Figure 6A The first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B described are the same or similar.

[0183] The third pattern area 70-4C can extend from the second pattern area 70-4B and can be located at the outermost edge of the fourth portion 70-4. In this case, the third pattern area 70-4C can be located at the outermost edge of the fourth portion 70-4 to distribute the stress applied to the support plate 70 when the electronic device 1 is folded. Accordingly, one side of the support plate 70 can remain flat, and the curvature of the surface of the display panel 50 on the support plate 70 can be reduced. A recessed portion 75 can be provided around the third pattern area 70-4C as described herein. In some embodiments, the third pattern area 70-4C can be connected to the second pattern area 70-4B.

[0184] The fourth part 70-4 can be configured such that its left and right sides are symmetrical about the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. That is, the first pattern area 70-4A can be located on the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2, the second pattern area 70-4B can be arranged on both sides of the first pattern area 70-4A, and the third pattern area 70-4C can be located outside the second pattern area 70-4B.

[0185] In the above-described manner, the fourth adhesive member 84 may include an opening 84A disposed at the portion of the fourth adhesive member 84 corresponding to the fourth portion 70-4. The opening 84A may overlap not only with the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B, but also with the third pattern area 70-4C.

[0186] Figures 10A to 10C yes Figure 9 A schematic plan view of a portion of the variable area illustrated in the figure.

[0187] refer to Figures 10A to 10C Part 4 70-4 may include a first pattern area, a second pattern area 70-4B, and a third pattern area 70-4C. The first pattern area and the second pattern area 70-4B are referenced herein. Figures 8A to 8C The first and second pattern areas 70-4B are identical, and therefore, their detailed description is omitted herein. Although not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, they are shown as referenced herein. Figures 8A to 8C As described, the first pattern area can be located below the second pattern area 70-4B.

[0188] In the above scenario, the third patterned region 70-4C may extend from the second patterned region 70-4B. The third patterned region 70-4C may include a plurality of third opening patterns 71C arranged in various directions. In some embodiments, the third opening patterns 71C may be arranged to be aligned with the substrate 100 (see...). Figure 18The third part corresponds to the third part of the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B. In some embodiments, similar to the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B, the third opening pattern 71C may have a rectangular shape with length and width, and may have rounded corners. The length of the third opening pattern 71C may be greater than the width of the third opening pattern 71C. One of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C may be arranged in a different direction than the other of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C. For example, the length direction of the one of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C closest to the second pattern area 70-4B may have an angle smaller than the length direction of the other of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C arranged at the position furthest from the second pattern area 70-4B relative to the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A or the length direction of the second opening pattern 71B. That is, the angle formed by the length direction of the third opening pattern 71C arranged in the third pattern area 70-4C and the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A or the length direction of the second opening pattern 71B may increase in the direction away from the second pattern area 70-4B. In this case, when the center of the first opening pattern 71A or the center of the second opening pattern 71B coincides with the center of the third opening pattern 71C, the angle can refer to 90° (degrees) or less of the angle formed by the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A or the length direction of the second opening pattern 71B and the length direction of the third opening pattern 71C. In the direction from the one of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C closest to the second pattern area 70-4B to the other of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C arranged at the position furthest from the second pattern area 70-4B, the length direction of the plurality of third opening patterns 71C can become approximately perpendicular to the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A or the length direction of the second opening pattern 71B. That is, the length direction of the third opening pattern 71C arranged at the outermost edge of the third pattern area 70-4C can be perpendicular to the length direction of the first opening pattern 71A or the length direction of the second opening pattern 71B.

[0189] In the above case, the plurality of third opening patterns 71C can have a radially extended structure. The third opening pattern 71C arranged in the third pattern region 70-4C at the outermost edge furthest from the second pattern region 70-4B in the second direction can be arranged in... Figure 8A or Figure 8B On the first straight line ST1 or the second straight line ST2 shown in the example.

[0190] Multiple third opening patterns 71C can be arranged in various directions to distribute the stress generated in the support plate 70 at the end of the fourth portion 70-4, thereby reducing the deformation of the support plate 70. In some aspects, the multiple third opening patterns 71C can reduce the abrupt change in the strength of the support plate 70 at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B.

[0191] The area of ​​the third pattern area 70-4C described herein may be (approximately) 10% or less of the sum of the areas of the first pattern area, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C, and may even exceed 0%. In this case, when the area of ​​the third pattern area 70-4C exceeds 10% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern area, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C, the support plate 70 may be twisted in the third pattern area 70-4C, resulting in bending of the surface of the display panel 50.

[0192] The length of the third opening pattern 71C described herein may be less than the length of the first opening pattern 71A. For example, the length of the third opening pattern 71C may be equal to or less than 40% of the length of the first opening pattern 71A, and may even exceed 0%. In this case, when the length of the third opening pattern 71C exceeds 40% of the length of the first opening pattern 71A, the support plate 70 may be twisted.

[0193] According to another embodiment, the length of the third opening pattern 71C may be less than the length of the first opening pattern 71A, and the width of the third opening pattern 71C may be less than the width of the first opening pattern 71A.

[0194] In the above case, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be compared with that referenced in this article. Figure 8A The area of ​​the described second pattern region 70-4B is similar. In other words, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 40% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region, the second pattern region 70-4B, and the third pattern region 70-4C. In an example where the amount of increase in the second spacing WD2 between the second opening patterns 71B spaced apart from each other in the second pattern region 70-4B is 10 μm or less, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 40% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region, the second pattern region 70-4B, and the third pattern region 70-4C. According to another embodiment, when the amount of increase in the second spacing WD2 is 10 μm or greater, the area of ​​the second pattern region 70-4B can be approximately 5% to approximately 20% of the sum of the areas of the first pattern region, the second pattern region 70-4B, and the third pattern region 70-4C. In this situation, when the proportion of the second pattern area 70-4B in the sum of the areas of the first pattern area, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C is too large, the deformation of the support plate 70 may be hindered, and when the proportion of the second pattern area 70-4B in the sum of the areas of the first pattern area and the third pattern area 70-4C is too small, the surface of the support plate 70 at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B may be bent.

[0195] Figure 11This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device 1 according to another embodiment.

[0196] refer to Figure 11 The electronic device 1 may include a display device and a lower cover 90 therein housing the display device. The electronic device 1 may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1 may include a folding area FA, and the display area DA may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2 spaced apart from each other, with the folding area FA located between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. In this case, the display area DA, the folding area FA, and the peripheral area PA are as referenced herein. Figure 5A Those that are the same or similar as those described herein, and therefore, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted in this document.

[0197] Figure 12A and Figure 12B yes Figure 11 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of electronic device 1. Figure 12A and Figure 12B It is along Figure 11 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B' in the diagram. Figure 12C yes Figure 12A or Figure 12B A schematic plan view of the support plate 70.

[0198] refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B Display device 200 (see Figure 13 The display panel may include an anti-reflective layer PF, a cover member 10, a data driver 20, a display circuit board 30, a panel protection member PFI, a functional layer 42, a display panel 50, a reinforcing member 60, a support plate 70, a first adhesive member 81, a second adhesive member 82, a third adhesive member 83, a fourth adhesive member 84, and a fifth adhesive member 85. In this case, the anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84, and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same as those referenced herein. Figure 6A The anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84 and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same or similar, therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0199] The support plate 70 may include a first part 70-1, a second part 70-2, and a fourth part 70-4. In this case, the first part 70-1, the second part 70-2, and the fourth part 70-4 may be as referenced herein. Figure 7 The descriptions of Part 1 70-1, Part 2 70-2 and Part 4 70-4 are the same or similar.

[0200] refer to Figure 12A Part 4 70-4 may include a first pattern area 70-4A and a second pattern area 70-4B. In this case, the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B may be consistent with those referenced herein. Figures 8A to 8C The first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B described are the same or similar.

[0201] refer to Figure 12B Part 4 70-4 may include a first pattern area 70-4A, a second pattern area 70-4B, and a third pattern area 70-4C. In this case, the first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C may be consistent with those referenced herein. Figures 10A to 10C The first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C are the same or similar.

[0202] Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device 1 according to another embodiment.

[0203] refer to Figure 13 The electronic device 1 may include a display device 200 and a housing. In this case, a portion of the housing may be unfoldable relative to another portion of the housing, and the display device 200 may unfold together with that portion of the housing. That is, at least a portion of the electronic device 1 may be slidable, such that the display device 200 may have an extension exposed to the outside. For example, assuming that the area of ​​the display device 200 exposed to the outside when at least a portion of the electronic device 1 is not unfolded is a first area, a second area of ​​the display device 200 exposed to the outside when at least a portion of the electronic device 1 is slidable may be more than twice the first area. That is, when a portion of the electronic device 1 is unfolded, the area on the display device 200 in which the image is displayed may increase. The electronic device 1 may not only slide but may also be partially foldable. For ease of description, the case where the electronic device 1 is a notebook computer will now be focused on and described in detail thereon.

[0204] Electronic device 1 may include an upper cover HS and a lower cover 90 as a housing. In this case, the upper cover HS and the lower cover 90 may be connected to each other via separate hinge portions HG. According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the upper cover HS and the lower cover 90 may be formed at various angles where applicable. The upper cover HS may be deployable. For example, the upper cover HS may include a first upper cover HS1 and a second upper cover HS2, the first upper cover HS1 may be arranged to be slidable relative to the second upper cover HS2, and the structure for fixing the position of the first upper cover HS1 may be arranged according to the position of the first upper cover HS1. According to another embodiment, a separate actuator may be arranged between the first upper cover HS1 and the second upper cover HS2, such that the first upper cover HS1 may be deployed from the second upper cover HS2 according to the operation of the actuator. In this case, the structure in which the first upper cover HS1 and the second upper cover HS2 are deployed is not limited to the structure described above, and various methods may be used.

[0205] The display device 200, including the display panel, can be housed in an upper cover HS and a lower cover 90. For example, a portion of the display device 200 can be housed in the upper cover HS, and another portion of the display device 200 can be housed in the lower cover 90. The cover member 10 of the display device 200 (see...) Figure 14A The end of the display panel 50 can be connected to the first upper cover HS1 and can move when the first upper cover HS1 is unfolded. Figure 14A A portion of the display device 200 can be disposed inside the lower cover 90, and then pulled out from the lower cover 90 and moved toward the second upper cover HS2 when the first upper cover HS1 moves. In this case, another portion of the display device 200 can be stored flat inside the lower cover 90, or can be wound on a roller or the like.

[0206] Electronic device 1 may include an input module 6 disposed in the lower cover 90. The input module 6 may take the form of physical buttons and / or a keyboard capable of inputting various characters, symbols, etc. The input module 6 may include multiple buttons, each of which can receive signals from the user and display images and / or characters on the display device 200.

[0207] In addition to the aforementioned components, electronic device 1 may further include the components referenced herein. Figure 1 The component being described.

[0208] Figure 14A yes Figure 13 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of electronic device 1. Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A schematic plan view of the support plate 70 shown in the figure.

[0209] refer to Figure 14A and Figure 14BThe display device 200 of the electronic device 1 may include an anti-reflective layer PF, a cover member 10, a data driver 20, a display circuit board 30, a panel protection member PFI, a functional layer 42, a display panel 50, a reinforcing member 60, a support plate 70, a first adhesive member 81, a second adhesive member 82, a third adhesive member 83, a fourth adhesive member 84, and a fifth adhesive member 85. In this case, the anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84, and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same as those referenced herein. Figure 6A The anti-reflective layer PF, cover member 10, data driver 20, display circuit board 30, panel protection member PFI, functional layer 42, display panel 50, reinforcing member 60, first adhesive member 81, second adhesive member 82, third adhesive member 83, fourth adhesive member 84 and fifth adhesive member 85 are the same or similar, therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0210] The support plate 70 may include a first receiving region 1A and a second receiving region 2A. In an example where the first upper cover HS1 is not deployed, the first receiving region 1A is received within the upper cover HS, and the second receiving region 2A is received within the lower cover 90. In this case, at least a portion of the first receiving region 1A and at least a portion of the second receiving region 2A may include a fourth portion 70-4, which is a variable region with a variable shape. In other words, the fourth portion 70-4 has a variable shape.

[0211] Part 4 70-4 may include a first pattern area 70-4A, a second pattern area 70-4B, and a third pattern area 70-4C. In this case, the first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C may be as referenced herein. Figures 10A to 10C The first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C described are the same or similar. In some embodiments, the first pattern area 70-4A may be disposed inside the lower cover 90, and at least a portion of the first pattern area 70-4A may move inside the lower cover 90 when the display device 200 slides.

[0212] In this configuration, one of each of the first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C of the fourth part 70-4 can be arranged. For example, only one of each of the first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C of the fourth part 70-4 can be arranged. The first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C can be arranged along a single direction of the support plate 70. For example, as... Figure 14B As shown, the first pattern area 70-4A, the second pattern area 70-4B, and the third pattern area 70-4C can be arranged sequentially from the lower side to the upper side of the support plate 70. The second pattern area 70-4B and the third pattern area 70-4C can be arranged on one side of the first pattern area 70-4A. Accordingly, even when the deformed portion of the display panel 50 changes when the display panel 50 is bent or slid, the first pattern area 70-4A can effectively support the display panel 50 and can also adapt to deformation. In some aspects, the second pattern area 70-4B and the third pattern area 70-4C can reduce the occurrence of bending on the surface of the display panel 50 by reducing the surface bending of the support plate 70 at the boundary of the fourth portion 70-4 of the support plate 70.

[0213] When the display panel 50 slides, at least a portion of the fourth part 70-4 can be configured to overlap with the hinge part HG. At this time, when the display panel 50 is pulled out of the lower cover 90, the area of ​​the fourth part 70-4 overlapping with the hinge part HG can change. For example, the first pattern area 70-4A can be configured to overlap with the hinge part HG, and the portion of the first pattern area 70-4A overlapping with the hinge part HG can change continuously as the display panel 50 is pulled out of the lower cover 90. A portion of the display panel 50 and a portion of the support plate 70 can be bent from the other portion of the display panel 50 and the other portion of the support plate 70, and the bent portion of the display panel 50 and the bent portion of the support plate 70 can change when the display panel 50 is pulled out of the lower cover 90. The fourth part 70-4 can facilitate the deformation of the support plate 70 by arranging a first opening pattern 71A, a second opening pattern 71B, and a third opening pattern 71C in various portions. In this case, the first opening pattern 71A, the second opening pattern 71B, and the third opening pattern 71C may be located in the same second direction as the second direction along which the display device 200 slides (e.g., Figure 14B The width in the x-axis direction and in the first direction perpendicular to the second direction (e.g., the width in the x-axis direction) and the width ... Figure 14B The length along the y-axis.

[0214] based on Figure 14B In the second direction (e.g., Figure 14BThe spacing between adjacent second opening patterns 71B in the x-axis direction (as shown in the image) can increase from the lower side to the upper side of the support plate 70. In some aspects, based on Figure 14B The angle formed by the length direction of the third opening pattern 71C and the second direction can decrease from the lower side to the upper side of the support plate 70. In particular, the length direction of the third opening pattern 71C arranged at the outermost edge of the fourth part 70-4 can be parallel to the second direction.

[0215] In the above-described situation, when a portion of the display device 200 is pulled out from or inserted into the lower cover 90, a force can be applied to the support plate 70. At this time, a sudden change in stress may occur at the boundary portion of the fourth portion 70-4 disposed in the upper cover HS due to the force applied to the support plate 70. In this case, the boundary portion of the fourth portion 70-4 disposed in the upper cover HS may be bent. The bending of the support plate 70 may also cause bending on the surface of the display panel 50. In particular, when the fourth portion 70-4 only includes a first pattern area 70-4A in which the first opening pattern 71A is arranged, a single plane may not be formed on the surface of the support plate 70 at the boundary portion of the first pattern area 70-4A, and inflection points may appear on the support plate 70 where the radius of curvature changes abruptly or the straight lines of the cross-section have different slopes. Due to the inflection points on the surface of the support plate 70, the surfaces of the reinforcing member 60, the display panel 50, the cover member 10, etc., on the support plate 70 may also have inflection points similar to those on the surface of the support plate 70. At this point, the inflection point may be set on the top cover HS and visible to the user through the exposed portion of the display device 200, so that when the display device 200 is operated, the display device 200 may display a distorted image.

[0216] However, as described herein, the second pattern region 70-4B, in which the second opening pattern 71B is arranged, and the third pattern region 70-4C, in which the third opening pattern 71C is arranged, can not only sequentially change the stress variation according to the force applied to the support plate 70, but also disperse the stress in various directions. Accordingly, the second pattern region 70-4B and the third pattern region 70-4C can gently assist the shape change of the support plate 70 at the boundary of the first pattern region 70-4A arranged in the upper cover HS.

[0217] Therefore, the second opening pattern 71B and the third opening pattern 71C can reduce the curvature of the surface of the display panel 50 by reducing the curvature of the support plate 70 at the outermost edge of the first pattern area 70-4A.

[0218] In the above case, the corresponding areas of the second pattern area 70-4B and the third pattern area 70-4C arranged on the plane of the support plate 70 can be compared with those referenced in this document. Figures 10A to 10CThe areas described are the same. In some aspects, such as... Figure 8A or Figure 8B As shown, the corresponding centers of the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B can be arranged on the same straight line. In some aspects, the outermost third opening pattern 71C is located within the third opening pattern 71C (e.g., based on...). Figure 14B The third opening pattern 71C, which is set at the top, can be set on a straight line at the center of the first opening pattern 71A and the second opening pattern 71B.

[0219] Although not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the support plate 70 may exclude the third patterned area 70-4C, but may include a first patterned area 70-4A and a second patterned area 70-4B. In this case, the first patterned area 70-4A and the second patterned area 70-4B may be as referenced herein. Figures 8A to 8C The first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B described in the text are the same or similar. In this case, the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B can be arranged in only one direction. That is, with Figure 14B Similar to the arrangement illustrated herein, the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B can be arranged on the support plate 70. In this case, the corresponding areas of the first pattern area 70-4A and the second pattern area 70-4B in the plan view can be similar to those referenced herein. Figures 8A to 8C The areas described in the second pattern area 70-4B are the same or similar. In this case, the second pattern area 70-4B can not only effectively disperse the force applied to the support plate 70 when force is applied from one side of the display device 200, but also distribute the stress formed on the support plate 70, so that the stress is changed sequentially (i.e., the stress formed on the support plate 70 is allowed to change sequentially). This can prevent the contour of the surface of the support plate 70 from changing abruptly at the outermost edge of the second pattern area 70-4B.

[0220] Figure 15A yes Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 11 or Figure 13 A schematic plan view of the display panel 50 and display circuit board 30 of the illustrated electronic device 1. Figure 15B yes Figure 15A A schematic side view of the display panel 50 and display circuit board 30 illustrated herein. The electronic device 1 described herein may include, for example... Figure 15A and Figure 15B The display panel 50 is shown in the example.

[0221] refer to Figure 15A and Figure 15BThe display panel 50 may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA outside the display area DA. The display area DA, which displays an image, may include a plurality of sub-pixels arranged therein. The display area DA may have any of a variety of shapes such as circular, elliptical, polygonal, and specific graphic shapes. Figure 15A The example display area DA has a basically rectangular shape with rounded corners.

[0222] The peripheral region PA can be located outside the display region DA. The peripheral region PA can include a first peripheral region PA1 configured to surround at least a portion of the display region DA and a second peripheral region PA2 located at the lower end of the display region DA and extending in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction). The width of the second peripheral region PA2 in the second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) can be smaller than the width of the display region DA in the second direction. This structure facilitates bending of at least a portion of the second peripheral region PA2.

[0223] Figure 15A The planar shape of the display panel 50 can be the same as that of the substrate 100 included in the display panel 50 (see...). Figure 16 The planar shapes are substantially the same. The display panel 50 includes a display area DA and a peripheral area PA outside the display area DA. It can be said that the substrate 100 includes a display area DA and a peripheral area PA outside the display area DA. For ease of explanation, the substrate 100 will now be described as having a display area DA and a peripheral area PA.

[0224] Display panel 50 may include a main area MR, a bent area BR outside the main area MR, and a sub-area SR spaced apart from the main area MR. The bent area BR is located between the sub-area SR and the main area MR. The main area MR may be located on one side of the bent area BR, and the sub-area SR may be located on the other side of the bent area BR. Figure 15B As shown, the display panel 50 can be bent in the bending region BR, and when viewed in a third direction (e.g., the z-axis direction), at least a portion of the sub-region SR can overlap with the main region MR. Although Figure 15B The illustration shows that display panel 50 is bent, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, display panel 50 may be a foldable display panel. In this case, display panel 50 may be bent within display area DA about a bending axis extending through display area DA. Display panel 50 may not be bent if necessary. Sub-area SR may be a non-display area.

[0225] The data driver 20 can be arranged in the sub-area SR of the display panel 50. The data driver 20 can be disposed on the display panel 50 in the form of an integrated circuit (IC). For example, the data driver 20 can be a data driver IC that generates data signals.

[0226] The display circuit board 30 can be attached to the end of the sub-region SR of the display panel 50. The display circuit board 30 can be electrically connected to the data driver 20 via pads in the sub-region SR of the display panel 50.

[0227] Figure 16 yes Figure 15A A schematic plan view of the display panel 50 and the display circuit board 30 illustrated in the figure.

[0228] refer to Figure 16 The display panel 50 may include a substrate 100. Components constituting the display panel 50 may be arranged on the substrate 100.

[0229] Substrate 100 may comprise glass, ceramic, metal, or polymer resin. For example, substrate 100 may comprise polymer resins such as polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, or cellulose acetate propionate. Substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure comprising two layers, each comprising the aforementioned polymer resin, and an inorganic material layer between the two layers. Alternatively, substrate 100 may have a structure in which layers comprising such polymer resin and inorganic layers are alternately stacked. The inorganic layer may comprise, for example, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride.

[0230] Subpixels can be arranged in a display area DA, and the display area DA can provide an image using light emitted from the subpixels. Each subpixel may include a light-emitting diode (LED), and the LED may be electrically connected to subpixel circuitry PC. The subpixel circuitry PC and the LED may be arranged in the display area DA. Figure 16 In this illustration, for convenience, the subpixel circuit PC and the light-emitting diode (LED) are depicted as positioned side by side. However, in reality, the subpixel circuit PC and the LED can at least partially overlap each other. For example, the LED can be disposed on the subpixel circuit PC.

[0231] The gate drive circuit, pad 54, first power line 55, and second power line 56 can be arranged in the peripheral region PA. The gate drive circuit may include, for example, a first scan drive circuit 51, a second scan drive circuit 52, and / or a light emission control drive circuit 53.

[0232] The first scan drive circuit 51 can provide scan signals to the sub-pixel circuits PC via scan lines SL. The second scan drive circuit 52 can be located on the opposite side of the display area DA from the first scan drive circuit 51. Some of the sub-pixel circuits PC arranged in the display area DA can be electrically connected to the first scan drive circuit 51, and the remaining sub-pixel circuits PC can be connected to the second scan drive circuit 52. In some cases, the second scan drive circuit 52 may not be included.

[0233] Similar to the first scan driving circuit 51, the light emission control driving circuit 53 can be located on one side of the display area DA. The light emission control driving circuit 53 can provide light emission control signals to each sub-pixel P (see light emission control line EL) via the light emission control line EL. Figure 5A Despite Figure 5A and Figure 5B The illustration shows the light emission control driving circuit 53 arranged on both sides of the display area DA, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the display panel 50 may include the light emission control driving circuit 53 arranged on one side of the display area DA. Alternatively, the first scan driving circuit 51 may be disposed on one side of the display area DA, and the light emission control driving circuit 53 may be disposed on the other side.

[0234] The pad 54 can be disposed in the second peripheral region PA2 of the substrate 100. The pad 54 can be exposed without being covered by the insulating layer and can be electrically connected to the display circuit board 30. The pad 34 of the display circuit board 30 can be electrically connected to the pad 54 of the display panel 50.

[0235] The display circuit board 30 transmits signals or power from the controller to the display panel 50. Control signals generated by the controller can be transmitted to the gate drive circuit via the display circuit board 30. The controller can transmit the first power supply voltage ELVDD (see...) Figure 17 ) and the second power supply voltage ELVSS (see Figure 17 The first power supply voltage (hereinafter referred to as the driving voltage) ELVDD can be provided to each of the sub-pixel circuits PC via the driving voltage line PL connected to the first power supply line 55, and the second power supply voltage (hereinafter referred to as the common voltage) ELVSS can be provided to the common electrode of the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) connected to the second power supply line 56. The first power supply line 55 can extend in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction). The second power supply line 56 can partially surround the display area DA by having a ring shape with one side open.

[0236] The data signal of the data driver 20 can be transmitted to the sub-pixel circuit PC via the input line IL and the data line DL electrically connected to the input line IL.

[0237] Figure 17 It is arranged in Figure 16 The equivalent circuit diagram of a sub-pixel in the display area DA of the display panel 50.

[0238] refer to Figure 17 The light-emitting diode (LED) can be electrically connected to the sub-pixel circuit PC.

[0239] The sub-pixel circuit PC may include a first thin-film transistor T1, a second thin-film transistor T2, a third thin-film transistor T3, a fourth thin-film transistor T4, a fifth thin-film transistor T5, a sixth thin-film transistor T6, a seventh thin-film transistor T7, and a storage capacitor Cst.

[0240] A second thin-film transistor T2, acting as a switching thin-film transistor, can be connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, and based on the switching voltage (or scan signal Sn) received via the scan line SL, transmits the data voltage (or data signal Dm) received via the data line DL to the first thin-film transistor T1. A storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the first thin-film transistor T1 and the drive voltage line PL, and can store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage received from the second thin-film transistor T2 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the drive voltage line PL.

[0241] A first thin-film transistor T1, used to drive the thin-film transistor, can be connected to a drive voltage line PL and a storage capacitor Cst. The drive current flowing from the drive voltage line PL to the light-emitting diode (LED) can be controlled based on the voltage value stored in the storage capacitor Cst. Due to this drive current, the LED can emit light with a predetermined brightness. The second electrode (e.g., the cathode) of the LED can receive a second power supply voltage ELVSS.

[0242] The third thin-film transistor T3 is a compensation thin-film transistor, and its gate electrode can be connected to the scan line SL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3 can be connected to the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1, and can also be connected to the first electrode of the light-emitting diode (LED) via the sixth thin-film transistor T6. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3 can be connected to one electrode of the storage capacitor Cst, the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4, and the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1. The third thin-film transistor T3 is turned on according to the scan signal Sn received via the scan line SL, and connects the gate electrode and drain electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1 to each other, thereby realizing the diode connection of the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0243] The gate electrode of the fourth thin-film transistor T4, used for initialization, can be connected to the previous scan line SL-1. The drain (or source) electrode of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 can be connected to the initialization voltage line VL. The source (or drain) electrode of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 can be connected to one electrode of the storage capacitor Cst, the drain (or source) electrode of the third thin-film transistor T3, and the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1. The fourth thin-film transistor T4 can be turned on according to the previous scan signal Sn-1 received via the previous scan line SL-1, and can transmit the initialization voltage Vint to the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1, thereby initializing the voltage of the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0244] The gate electrode of the fifth thin-film transistor T5, which controls the operation of the thin-film transistor, can be connected to the light-emitting control line EL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fifth thin-film transistor T5 can be connected to the drive voltage line PL. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the fifth thin-film transistor T5 is connected to the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1 and the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the second thin-film transistor T2.

[0245] The gate electrode of the sixth thin-film transistor T6, which controls the light emission, can be connected to the light emission control line EL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the sixth thin-film transistor T6 can be connected to the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1 and the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the sixth thin-film transistor T6 can be electrically connected to the first electrode of the light-emitting diode (LED). The fifth thin-film transistor T5 and the sixth thin-film transistor T6 are simultaneously turned on according to the light emission control signal En received via the light emission control line EL, and therefore, the driving voltage ELVDD is transmitted to the LED and the driving current flows in the LED.

[0246] The seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be an initialization thin-film transistor that initializes the first electrode of the light-emitting diode (LED). The gate electrode of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be connected to the next scan line SL+1. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be connected to the first electrode of the LED. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be connected to the initialization voltage line VL. The seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be turned on according to the next scan signal Sn+1 received via the next scan line SL+1, and can initialize the first electrode of the LED.

[0247] exist Figure 17In one embodiment, the fourth thin-film transistor T4 and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 are connected to the previous scan line SL-1 and the next scan line SL+1, respectively. However, according to another embodiment, the fourth thin-film transistor T4 and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can both be connected to the previous scan line SL-1 to operate according to the previous scan signal Sn-1.

[0248] The other electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the drive voltage line PL. One electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1, the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3, and the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4.

[0249] The second electrode (e.g., the cathode) of the light-emitting diode (LED) receives a second power supply voltage, ELVSS. The LED receives a drive current from the first thin-film transistor T1 and emits light.

[0250] A light-emitting diode (LED) can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) that incorporates organic materials as light-emitting materials. According to another embodiment, an LED can be an inorganic light-emitting diode that incorporates inorganic materials. An inorganic LED can include a PN diode comprising a material based on an inorganic semiconductor. When a voltage is applied to the PN diode in the forward direction, holes and electrons are injected, and the energy generated by the recombination of holes and electrons is converted into light energy, thereby emitting light of a predetermined color. The aforementioned inorganic LED can have a width of several micrometers to hundreds of micrometers or several nanometers to hundreds of nanometers. According to some embodiments, an LED can include a quantum dot LED. As described herein, the emitting layer of an LED can include organic materials, can include inorganic materials, can include quantum dots, can include both organic materials and quantum dots, or can include both inorganic materials and quantum dots. For ease of explanation, the case where the LED comprises an organic light-emitting diode will now be described.

[0251] exist Figure 17 In one embodiment, the subpixel circuit PC includes seven transistors and one capacitor. However, according to another embodiment, the subpixel circuit PC may include three or more transistors and may include three or more capacitors. In some aspects, the circuit design of the subpixel circuit PC is not limited to... Figure 17 The circuit design shown in the example can be modified.

[0252] The first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can all be various types of transistors. According to one embodiment, the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can all be p-channel MOSFETs (PMOS transistors). According to another embodiment, at least one of the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be a p-channel MOSFET (PMOS transistor), and the other thin-film transistors can be n-channel MOSFETs (NMOS transistors). According to yet another embodiment, the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can all be n-channel MOSFETs (NMOS transistors). Depending on the type of transistor (p-type or n-type), the positions of the source and drain can be interchanged.

[0253] Figure 17 The first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 illustrated herein may all be transistors having a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) semiconductor layer. In this case, the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 are not limited to the aforementioned transistors, and at least one of the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may be a transistor having a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) semiconductor layer, and the remaining thin-film transistors may be transistors having an oxide semiconductor layer. Alternatively, the first thin-film transistor T1, the second thin-film transistor T2, the third thin-film transistor T3, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may all be transistors having an oxide semiconductor layer.

[0254] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display area DA of the display panel 50. Figure 18 It is along Figure 16The cross-sectional view taken from line C-C' in the diagram.

[0255] refer to Figure 18 Examples include subpixel circuits PC and light-emitting diodes (e.g., organic light-emitting diodes OLED) arranged in the display area DA of the display panel 50.

[0256] The substrate 100 may comprise glass, ceramic, metal, or polymer resin. According to one embodiment, the substrate 100 may have a structure in which an alternately stacked base layer comprising a polymer resin and an insulating layer comprising an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide or silicon nitride is formed. In examples where the substrate 100 comprises a stacked structure of a polymer resin base layer and an inorganic insulating layer, the flexibility of the electronic device 1 is improved, thereby providing a foldable electronic device 1.

[0257] Inorganic insulating materials may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride.

[0258] Examples of polymeric resins may include polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, and cellulose acetate propionate. For ease of description, the case where the substrate 100 is formed of glass will now be described in detail.

[0259] Subpixel circuit PC can be formed on substrate 100, and light-emitting diodes (e.g., organic light-emitting diodes OLED) can be formed on subpixel circuit PC.

[0260] Before the sub-pixel circuit PC is formed on the substrate 100, a buffer layer 201 for preventing impurities from penetrating into the sub-pixel circuit PC may be formed on the substrate 100. The buffer layer 201 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and / or silicon oxide, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0261] As referenced in this article Figure 17 The sub-pixel circuit PC may include multiple transistors and storage capacitors. In this respect, Figure 18 Examples include a first thin-film transistor T1, a third thin-film transistor T3, and a storage capacitor Cst.

[0262] The first thin-film transistor T1 may include a semiconductor layer (hereinafter referred to as the first semiconductor layer A1) on the buffer layer 201 and a gate electrode (hereinafter referred to as the first gate electrode GE1) overlapping the channel region C1 of the first semiconductor layer A1. The first semiconductor layer A1 may include a silicon-based semiconductor material, such as polysilicon. The first semiconductor layer A1 may include the channel region C1 and a first region B1 and a second region D1 respectively disposed on both sides of the channel region C1. The first region B1 and the second region D1 are regions containing a higher impurity concentration than the channel region C1, and one of the first region B1 and the second region D1 may correspond to the source region and the other may correspond to the drain region.

[0263] The first gate insulating layer 203 may be disposed between the first semiconductor layer A1 and the first gate electrode GE1. The first gate insulating layer 203 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0264] The first gate electrode GE1 may contain conductive materials such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti), and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned materials.

[0265] The storage capacitor Cst may include a lower electrode CE1 and an upper electrode CE2 that overlap each other. According to one embodiment, the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst may include a first gate electrode GE1. In other words, the first gate electrode GE1 may include the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst. For example, the first gate electrode GE1 may be integrally formed with the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst.

[0266] The first interlayer insulating layer 205 can be disposed between the lower electrode CE1 and the upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst. The first interlayer insulating layer 205 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0267] The upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst may include a low-resistance conductive material such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu) and / or titanium (Ti), and may have a multilayer or single-layer structure including the aforementioned materials.

[0268] The second interlayer insulation layer 207 can be disposed on the storage capacitor Cst. The second interlayer insulation layer 207 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0269] The semiconductor layer of the third thin-film transistor T3 (hereinafter referred to as the third semiconductor layer A3) may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer 207. The third semiconductor layer A3 may include a silicon-based semiconductor material, such as polycrystalline silicon.

[0270] The third semiconductor layer A3 may include a channel region C3 and a first region B3 and a second region D3 respectively disposed on both sides of the channel region C3. One of the first region B3 and the second region D3 may correspond to the source region, and the other may correspond to the drain region.

[0271] The third thin-film transistor T3 may include a gate electrode (hereinafter referred to as the third gate electrode GE3) that overlaps with the channel region C3 of the third semiconductor layer A3. The third gate electrode GE3 may have a dual-gate structure including a lower gate electrode G3A disposed below the third semiconductor layer A3 and an upper gate electrode G3B disposed above the channel region C3.

[0272] The lower gate electrode G3A may be disposed on the same layer as the upper electrode CE2 on which the storage capacitor Cst is disposed (e.g., the first interlayer insulating layer 205). The lower gate electrode G3A may comprise the same material as the material included in the upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst.

[0273] The upper gate electrode G3B can be disposed on the third semiconductor layer A3, and the second gate insulating layer 209 is located between the upper gate electrode G3B and the third semiconductor layer A3. The second gate insulating layer 209 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0274] The third interlayer insulating layer 210 may be disposed on the upper gate electrode G3B. The third interlayer insulating layer 210 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxynitride, and may be a single layer or multiple layers including the inorganic insulating material.

[0275] Figure 18 Examples are shown in the references in this article. Figure 17 The first thin-film transistor T1 and the third thin-film transistor T3 are among the plurality of thin-film transistors, and the first semiconductor layer A1 and the third semiconductor layer A3 are arranged on different layers. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0276] References in this article Figure 17 Description Figure 17 The second thin-film transistor T2, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can have the same characteristics as those referenced in this document. Figure 18 The structure described is the same as that of the first thin-film transistor T1. For example, Figure 17The second thin-film transistor T2, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may include a semiconductor layer disposed on the same layer as the first semiconductor layer A1 disposed on the first thin-film transistor T1, and a gate electrode disposed on the same layer as the first gate electrode GE1 disposed on the first thin-film transistor T1. Figure 17 The semiconductor layers of the second thin-film transistor T2, the fourth thin-film transistor T4, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be integrally connected with the first semiconductor layer A1.

[0277] The first thin-film transistor T1 and the third thin-film transistor T3 can be electrically connected to each other via a node connection line 166. The node connection line 166 can be disposed on the third interlayer insulating layer 210. One side of the node connection line 166 can be connected to the first gate electrode GE1 of the first thin-film transistor T1, and the other side of the node connection line 166 can be connected to the third semiconductor layer A3 of the third thin-film transistor T3.

[0278] The node connection line 166 may include Al, Cu and / or Ti, and may be a multilayer or single layer comprising the aforementioned materials. For example, the node connection line 166 may have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0279] A first organic insulating layer 211 may be disposed on the node connection line 166. The first organic insulating layer 211 may include an organic insulating material. The organic insulating material may include acrylic acid, benzocyclobutene (BCB), polyimide, or hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO).

[0280] The data line DL and the drive voltage line PL can be disposed on the first organic insulating layer 211 and covered by the second organic insulating layer 213. The data line DL and the drive voltage line PL can include Al, Cu and / or Ti, and can be a multilayer or a single layer comprising the aforementioned materials. For example, the data line DL and the drive voltage line PL can have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0281] The second organic insulating layer 213 may comprise an organic insulating material such as acrylic acid, benzocyclobutene (BCB), polyimide, or hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO). Although Figure 18 For example, the data line DL and the drive voltage line PL are formed on the first organic insulating layer 211, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the data line DL or the drive voltage line PL may be disposed on the same layer as the node connection line 166 disposed thereon, such as on the third interlayer insulating layer 210.

[0282] A light-emitting diode (e.g., an organic light-emitting diode OLED) can be disposed on the second organic insulating layer 213.

[0283] The first electrode 221 of an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may include a reflective layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), and / or compounds of these materials. According to another embodiment, the first electrode 221 may further include a conductive oxide layer above and / or below the reflective layer. The conductive oxide layer may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), and / or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). According to one embodiment, the first electrode 221 may have a three-layer structure of ITO layer / Ag layer / ITO layer.

[0284] A retaining layer 215 may be disposed on the first electrode 221. The retaining layer 215 may include an opening overlapping the first electrode 221 and may cover the edge of the first electrode 221. The retaining layer 215 may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0285] Intermediate layer 222 includes an emitting layer 222b. Intermediate layer 222 may include a first functional layer 222a below the emitting layer 222b and / or a second functional layer 222c above the emitting layer 222b. Emitting layer 222b may include a low-molecular-weight or high-molecular-weight organic material that emits light of a specific color. Second functional layer 222c may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). First functional layer 222a and second functional layer 222c may include organic materials.

[0286] The second electrode 223 may include a conductive material with a low work function. For example, the second electrode 223 may include a transparent or translucent layer comprising, for example, silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), and / or alloys of these materials. Alternatively, the second electrode 223 may further include a layer such as ITO, IZO, ZnO, and / or In2O3 on top of a transparent or translucent layer comprising any of the aforementioned materials.

[0287] An emitting layer 222b may be formed in the display area DA to overlap with the first electrode 221 via an opening in the barrier layer 215. The first functional layer 222a, the second functional layer 222c, and the second electrode 223 may completely cover the display area DA.

[0288] Spacer 217 may be formed on barrier layer 215. Spacer 217 may be formed together with barrier layer 215 in the same process, or it may be formed separately in a separate process. According to one embodiment, spacer 217 may comprise an organic insulating material such as polyimide. Alternatively, barrier layer 215 may comprise an organic insulating material containing light-blocking dyes, and spacer 217 may comprise an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0289] An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can be covered by an encapsulation layer 300. The encapsulation layer 300 may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. According to one embodiment, Figure 18 The encapsulation layer 300 is illustrated by including a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, and an organic encapsulation layer 320 located between the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330.

[0290] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may comprise at least one inorganic material such as alumina, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be a single layer or multiple layers comprising the aforementioned materials. The organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise a polymeric material. Examples of polymeric materials may include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene. According to one embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise an acrylate.

[0291] The thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be different from each other. The thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 may be greater than the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330. Alternatively, the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be greater than the thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, or the thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be the same.

[0292] The input sensing layer 400 may be disposed on the encapsulation layer 300. The input sensing layer 400 may include touch electrodes TE disposed in the display area DA and at least one touch insulating layer. In this respect, Figure 18 An example of an input sensing layer 400 includes a first touch insulating layer 410 on a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, a first conductive line 420 on the first touch insulating layer 410, a second touch insulating layer 430 on the first conductive line 420, a second conductive line 440 on the second touch insulating layer 430, and a third touch insulating layer 450 on the second conductive line 440.

[0293] Each of the first touch insulating layer 410, the second touch insulating layer 430, and the third touch insulating layer 450 may include an inorganic insulating material and / or an organic insulating material. According to one embodiment, the first touch insulating layer 410 and the second touch insulating layer 430 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride, and the third touch insulating layer 450 may include an organic insulating material.

[0294] The touch electrode TE of the input sensing layer 400 may have a structure in which the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 are connected to each other. Alternatively, the touch electrode TE may include one of the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440. In this case, the second touch insulating layer 430 may be omitted.

[0295] Each of the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 may include Al, Cu and / or Ti, and may be a multilayer or a single layer comprising the aforementioned materials. For example, each of the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 may have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0296] The display device and electronic device according to the embodiments can provide clear images with reduced distortion.

[0297] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are to be considered in a descriptive sense and are not intended to be limiting. Descriptions of features or aspects in each embodiment should generally be considered as other similar features or aspects that may be used in other embodiments. While one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The substrate has at least a portion that is selectively bent; A reinforcing member is disposed on the substrate; as well as A support plate is provided on the reinforcing member. in: The support plate includes: The first region has a plurality of first opening patterns arranged to correspond to a first portion of the substrate; A second region, connected to the first region, and having a plurality of second opening patterns arranged to correspond to a second portion of the substrate; and The third region is connected to the second region and has a plurality of third opening patterns arranged to correspond to the third portion of the substrate. Each of the plurality of first opening patterns, each of the plurality of second opening patterns, and each of the plurality of third opening patterns has a width and a length, wherein the length is greater than the width. The length direction of at least one of the plurality of first opening patterns and the length direction of at least one of the plurality of second opening patterns are the same as each other and in a first direction, and At least one of the plurality of third opening patterns has a length direction that is different from the first direction.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the length of some of the plurality of second opening patterns decreases sequentially in a second direction away from the first region.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the length of each of the plurality of second opening patterns arranged in the second region decreases by a specific value in the second direction.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the spacing between adjacent second opening patterns in a second direction different from the first direction among the plurality of second opening patterns increases in the second direction away from the first region.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein the interval between adjacent second opening patterns in the second direction is in the range of 5 μm to 1 mm.

6. The display device according to claim 4, wherein the interval between adjacent second opening patterns in the second direction increases by a specific value in the second direction away from the first region.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein some of the plurality of second opening patterns have a center arranged on an arbitrary straight line parallel to the width direction of the plurality of second opening patterns, and have corresponding ends arranged on oblique lines or curves.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first opening patterns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first opening patterns at least partially overlap each other in a second direction different from the first direction; and / or Of the plurality of second opening patterns, the second opening patterns that are adjacent to each other in the first direction at least partially overlap each other in the second direction.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the angle between the length direction and the first direction of each of the plurality of third opening patterns increases in the direction away from the second region.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the length direction of the third opening pattern disposed at the outermost edge of the third region among the plurality of third opening patterns is perpendicular to the first direction.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the spacing between adjacent first opening patterns arranged in a second direction different from the first direction among the plurality of first opening patterns is constant.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the length of each of the plurality of third opening patterns is less than the length of each of the plurality of first opening patterns.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the area of ​​the second region is 5% to 40% of the total area obtained by summing the areas of the first region, the second region and the third region.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the area of ​​the third region is greater than 0% to 10% of the total area obtained by summing the areas of the first region, the second region and the third region.

15. A display device, comprising: substrate; A reinforcing member is disposed on the lower surface of the substrate; as well as A support plate is disposed on the lower surface of the reinforcing member. in: The support plate includes a variable area with a changing shape and a plurality of opening patterns arranged therein. Each of the plurality of opening patterns has a length and a width less than the length. Some of the plurality of opening patterns have a center arranged on a first straight line in a second direction different from the first direction, and the length direction of each of the plurality of opening patterns is parallel to the first direction. Some of the opening patterns among the plurality of opening patterns having a center arranged on the first straight line include: A first set of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the first set of opening patterns is constant; and The second set of opening patterns, wherein the spacing between adjacent opening patterns in the second set of opening patterns varies in the second direction, and The first subgroup of opening patterns included in the second group of opening patterns is arranged in pattern area 2-1, where the length of the first subgroup of opening patterns is constant, and the second subgroup of opening patterns included in the second group of opening patterns is arranged in pattern area 2-2, where the length of the second subgroup of opening patterns decreases sequentially in the direction away from pattern area 2-1.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein the ends of the second subgroup of opening patterns arranged in the 2-2 pattern area are arranged on oblique lines or curves inclined relative to the second direction.

17. An electronic device comprising: shell; The display device is housed within the housing and is foldable, or a portion of the display device can be pulled out from a portion of the housing; as well as The input module is housed within the casing and receives signals from the user. The display device described therein is a display device according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

18. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the first region, the second region and the third region are arranged sequentially from one end of the housing to the other end of the housing.

19. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein: The first area is located inside the portion of the housing where the input module is located, and When the display device slides, at least a portion of the first area moves inside the housing.

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