Display device

Abstract

In order to prevent misoperation and damage of a display panel caused by electrostatic discharge and prevent cracks in the display panel when the display panel is folded, the utility model provides a display device which comprises the display panel which comprises a first area, a second area and a bending area arranged between the first area and the second area; a first adhesive layer disposed on the first region; a cover window disposed on the first adhesive layer; and a bending protection layer disposed on the bending region and a portion of the first region adjacent to the bending region, a portion of the bending protection layer being interposed between the display panel and the first adhesive layer, the portion of the curved protective layer between the display panel and the first adhesive layer includes an inclined surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a display device, and more particularly to a display device which can prevent erroneous operation and damage of a display panel caused by electrostatic discharge and prevent cracks from being generated in the display panel when folded. Background Art

[0002] The display device can be used as various electronic devices. For example, the display device can be a mobile electronic device such as a smart phone. Such a display device can be a foldable display device in which a portion of the display surface is folded in order to reduce the overall size of the display device while expanding the area of ​​the display surface.

[0003] On the other hand, a portion of the display panel may be bent to minimize the area where the non-display area is recognized, and a bending protection layer may be disposed on the portion of the bent display panel. In order to prevent pressure from being applied to the display panel due to a sliding phenomenon when folded, the bending protection layer and a layer disposed on the upper portion of the non-folding area of ​​the display panel may be spaced apart from each other.

[0004] However, in such a display device of the related art, there is a problem that static electricity flows into the portion of the display panel exposed to the outside, causing malfunction or damage of the display panel. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present invention is used to solve various problems including the above problems, and aims to provide a display device that can prevent malfunction and damage of the display panel caused by electrostatic discharge and prevent cracks from occurring in the display panel when folded. However, these issues are illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a display device is provided, comprising: a display panel, comprising a first area, a second area, and a curved area arranged between the first area and the second area; a first adhesive layer arranged on the first area; a cover window arranged on the first adhesive layer; and a curved protective layer arranged on the curved area and a portion of the first area adjacent to the curved area, a portion of the curved protective layer being between the display panel and the first adhesive layer, and the portion of the curved protective layer between the display panel and the first adhesive layer including an inclined surface.

[0007] A portion of the first adhesive layer may be disposed on the inclined surface of the curved protection layer.

[0008] The thickness of the portion of the bending protection layer between the display panel and the first adhesive layer may increase toward the bending region.

[0009] It may be that the display panel includes a first panel surface and a second panel surface opposite to the first panel surface, the curved protective layer is arranged on the first panel surface, and a first angle formed by the inclined surface of the curved protective layer and the first panel surface is greater than 2° and less than 14°.

[0010] The cover window may protrude further toward the bending region than the first adhesive layer.

[0011] It may be that, on a plane, one side of the cover window in the direction of the curved region is arranged closer to the curved region than one side of the first adhesive layer in the direction of the curved region.

[0012] Alternatively, the display device further includes: a functional layer interposed between the first adhesive layer and the cover window; and a second adhesive layer interposed between the functional layer and the cover window.

[0013] The functional layer may include a polarizing film.

[0014] It may be that the first area includes a first non-folding area, a second non-folding area, and a foldable area configured between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area, the first non-folding area is configured to be separated from the bending area, the second non-folding area is configured to be adjacent to the bending area, and the display panel is folded in the foldable area.

[0015] Alternatively, the display device further includes: an upper protective layer disposed on the cover window; and an upper protective layer adhesive layer interposed between the cover window and the upper protective layer.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, a display device is provided, comprising: a display panel, comprising a first area, a second area, and a curved area arranged between the first area and the second area; a first adhesive layer arranged on the first area; a cover window arranged on the first adhesive layer; a bending protection layer arranged on the curved area and a portion of the first area adjacent to the curved area; and a sliding auxiliary layer arranged between the bending protection layer and the first adhesive layer, comprising a substance different from a substance included in the bending protection layer, a portion of the sliding auxiliary layer being interposed between the display panel and the first adhesive layer, and the portion of the sliding auxiliary layer interposed between the display panel and the first adhesive layer comprising an inclined surface.

[0017] A portion of the first adhesive layer may be disposed on the inclined surface of the sliding assisting layer.

[0018] The thickness of the portion of the sliding auxiliary layer interposed between the display panel and the first adhesive layer may increase toward the bending region.

[0019] It may be that the display panel includes a first panel surface and a second panel surface opposite to the first panel surface, the sliding auxiliary layer is arranged on the first panel surface, and the first angle formed by the inclined surface of the sliding auxiliary layer and the first panel surface is greater than 2° and less than 14°.

[0020] The cover window may protrude further toward the bending region than the first adhesive layer.

[0021] It may be that, on a plane, one side of the cover window in the direction of the curved region is arranged closer to the curved region than one side of the first adhesive layer in the direction of the curved region.

[0022] Alternatively, the display device further includes: a functional layer interposed between the first adhesive layer and the cover window; and a second adhesive layer interposed between the functional layer and the cover window.

[0023] The functional layer may include a polarizing film.

[0024] It may be that the first area includes a first non-folding area, a second non-folding area, and a foldable area configured between the first non-folding area and the second non-folding area, the first non-folding area is configured to be separated from the bending area, the second non-folding area is configured to be adjacent to the bending area, and the display panel is folded in the foldable area.

[0025] Alternatively, the display device further includes: an upper protective layer disposed on the cover window; and an upper protective layer adhesive layer interposed between the cover window and the upper protective layer.

[0026] Other aspects, features, and advantages than those described above will become apparent from the following detailed description for implementing the utility model, claims, and drawings.

[0027] (Effect of utility model)

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention constructed as described above, a display device can be realized that can prevent erroneous operation and damage of the display panel caused by electrostatic discharge and prevent cracks from being generated in the display panel when folded. Of course, the scope of the present invention is not limited by these effects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1It is a perspective view schematically showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention in an unbent state.

[0030] Figure 2 It is a perspective view schematically showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 It is a schematic representation Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a display device taken along line II′.

[0032] Figure 4 It is a plan view schematically showing a non-bent state of a display panel included in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel of a display panel.

[0034] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display panel included in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and schematically showing Figure 4 sectional view of a cross section of a display panel taken along line II-II.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic enlargement. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of portion A of a display device.

[0036] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view for explaining the shape of the first adhesive layer of the display device according to the comparative example.

[0037] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section.

[0038] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section.

[0039] Fig.11 This is a schematic enlargement. Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of part B of the display device.

[0040] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section.

[0041] Explanation of symbols:

[0042] 1: display device; 10: display panel; A1: first area; A2: second area; BA: bending area; AL1: first adhesive layer; CW: cover window; BPL: bending protection layer; SL1: first inclined surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The present invention can have various changes and various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail herein. Figure 1 The effects, features, and methods of achieving the effects and features of the present invention will become clear from the embodiments described in detail below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and the present invention can be implemented in various forms.

[0044] In this specification, the terms "first" and "second" are not restrictive terms, but are used to distinguish one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0045] In this specification, an expression in the singular includes an expression in the plural unless there is a clear contrary meaning in the text.

[0046] In this specification, the terms “including” or “having” etc. should be understood to refer to the existence of the features or constituent elements recorded in the specification, and do not exclude the possibility of adding one or more other features or constituent elements in advance.

[0047] In this specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or both A and B. In addition, "at least one of A and B" means A, B, or both A and B.

[0048] In this specification, when various constituent elements such as a layer, a film, a region, and a plate are located on other constituent elements, this includes not only the case where they are directly located on other constituent elements but also the case where other constituent elements exist in between.

[0049] In this specification, when it is recorded that a film, region, constituent element, etc. are connected, it includes not only the case where the film, region, constituent element is directly connected, and / or, it also includes the case where other films, regions, constituent elements are sandwiched between the films, regions, constituent elements and are indirectly connected. For example, in this specification, when it is recorded that a film, region, constituent element, etc. are electrically connected, it means that the film, region, constituent element, etc. are directly electrically connected and / or the case where other films, regions, constituent elements, etc. are sandwiched between them and are indirectly electrically connected.

[0050] In this specification, the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis are not limited to the three axes on the rectangular coordinate system, and can be interpreted as including a broader meaning thereof. For example, the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis can be orthogonal to each other, but can also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other.

[0051] In this specification, when an embodiment can be implemented in different ways, a specific process sequence can also be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession can be performed substantially at the same time, or in a reverse order from the described sequence.

[0052] In this specification, "on a plane" refers to a state when the object portion is viewed from above. That is, in this specification, "on a plane" may mean "a state when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate 100".

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same symbols are used for the same or corresponding components and repeated descriptions thereof are omitted. For the convenience of description, the size of the components may be enlarged or reduced in the accompanying drawings. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the accompanying drawings are arbitrarily shown for the convenience of description, and the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0054] Figure 1 It is a perspective view schematically showing a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention in an unbent state. Figure 2 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 express Figure 1 The display device 1 is in a bent form.

[0055] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the display device 1 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a curved area BA located between the first area A1 and the second area A2. Specifically, the display device 1 may include the first area A1, the curved area BA outside the first area A1, and the second area A2 located on the opposite side of the first area A1 with the curved area BA as the center.

[0056] The first area A1 may include a display area and a non-display area, and the second area A2 may be formed only of the non-display area. Figure 2 As shown, the display device 1 is bent so that when viewed in the z-axis direction, at least a portion of the second area A2 can overlap with the first area A1. Specifically, the display device 1 can be bent in the bending area BA with a bending axis BAX extending along a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction) as a reference. By bending the display device 1 in the bending area BA, a portion of the non-display area can be unrecognizable when the display device 1 is viewed in the -z direction. Thus, the area of ​​the recognized non-display area can be minimized.

[0057] The display device 1 may include a first surface S1 and a second surface S2 opposite to the first surface S1. The display device 1 may display an image on the first surface S1. That is, the first surface S1 of the display device 1 may include a display surface. Specifically, the first surface S1 of the first area A1 of the display device 1 may include a display surface. By bending the display device 1 in the bending area BA, the second surface S2 of the first area A1 and the second surface S2 of the second area A2 may face each other.

[0058] On the other hand, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first area A1 may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2 and a foldable area FA. The display device 1 may have flexibility in at least a portion, and the flexible portion may be bent so that the display device 1 may be folded. Thus, a folded area and a (non-folded) area that is arranged on at least one side of the folded area and is not folded may be included. In this specification, "non-folding" means not folded, which includes not only the case where there is no flexibility and is strong and not folded, but also the case where there is flexibility but not folded. The first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 are areas that may be non-folding, and the foldable area FA may be an area that is flexible and can be folded.

[0059] When the display device 1 is in a state before being folded, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (e.g., +y direction or -y direction) intersecting the first direction. The first non-folding area NFA1 may be configured to be spaced apart from the bending area BA, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be configured to be adjacent to the bending area BA.

[0060] The foldable area FA may be arranged between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. Specifically, one side of the foldable area FA may be adjacent to the first non-folding area NFA1, and the other side of the foldable area FA may be adjacent to the second non-folding area NFA2. The foldable area FA may extend in a direction intersecting a virtual straight line connecting the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. When the display device 1 is in a state before being folded, the foldable area FA may extend in a first direction (e.g., the +x direction or the -x direction).

[0061] The folding line FL may be provided in the foldable area FA along a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction) which is an extension direction of the foldable area FA. Thus, the display device 1 may be folded in the foldable area FA. The foldable area FA and the folding line FL of the foldable area FA may overlap with an image displaying area of ​​the display device 1, and when the display device 1 is folded, the image displaying portion may be folded. That is, the display device 1 may display an image not only in a non-folded area but also in a folded area.

[0062] exist Figure 1 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the case where the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 have the same or similar area and the display device 1 has one foldable area FA is shown, but the utility model is not limited to this. For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may have different areas from each other. In addition, the display device 1 may have a plurality of foldable areas FA. In this case, the plurality of non-folding areas may be configured to be spaced apart from each other, and the plurality of foldable areas FA may be respectively configured between the non-folding areas. Each foldable area FA may be folded based on the folding line FL, and the folding line FL may be set to be multiple.

[0063] On the other hand, Figure 1 , the folding line FL passes through the center of the foldable area FA and the foldable area FA forms a line symmetry with respect to the folding line FL, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the folding line FL may also be set asymmetrically within the foldable area FA.

[0064] The display device 1 can be folded with the folding line FL as a reference so that the first surface S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first surface S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other. In other words, as the foldable area FA of the display device 1 is bent, it can be configured so that the first surface S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first surface S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other. Even if the display device 1 is folded, the foldable area FA can extend in a direction intersecting with a virtual straight line connecting the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. Specifically, when the display device 1 is folded, the foldable area FA can extend in a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction) intersecting with a virtual straight line (e.g., a straight line parallel to the z-axis direction) connecting the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0065] On the other hand, the foldable area FA can be unfolded again after being bent. Thus, the display device 1 can be unfolded. In this specification, "unfolding" means the case where the display device 1 is opened after being folded. That is, the display device 1 can be a foldable display device.

[0066] On the other hand, in this specification, the term "folding" means that the shape is not fixed but deformed from the original shape to another shape, including being folded, curved, or bent along one or more specific lines (i.e., folding line FL). Therefore, when the display device 1 is folded, the first surface S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first surface S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 can be configured to be parallel to each other and face each other, and the first surface S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first surface S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 can also form a predetermined angle (e.g., an acute angle, a right angle, or an obtuse angle) with the foldable area FA sandwiched therebetween.

[0067] Figure 3 It is a schematic representation Figure 2 sectional view of the display device 1 taken along line II′. Figure 4 It is a plan view schematically showing a non-bent state of a display panel 10 included in a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, the display device 1 may include a display panel 10, a cover window CW, an upper protection layer UPL, a first lower protection layer LPL1, a second lower protection layer LPL2, a spacer SP, a driving part DV, a bending protection layer BPL, and a first adhesive layer AL1. The display device 1 may also include an upper protection layer adhesive layer UPLa, a first spacer adhesive layer SPa1, and a second spacer adhesive layer SPa2.

[0069] The display panel 10 can display an image. To this end, the display panel 10 may include a plurality of display elements, and the plurality of display elements may emit light. Therefore, the display panel 10 may display an image by light emitted by a plurality of display elements. In one embodiment, the display element may be an organic light emitting diode (OLED) including an organic light emitting layer. Alternatively, the display element may be a light emitting diode (LED). The size of the light emitting diode (LED) may be micro or nano. For example, the light emitting diode may be a micro light emitting diode. Alternatively, the light emitting diode may be a nanorod light emitting diode. The nanorod light emitting diode may include gallium nitride (GaN). In one embodiment, a color conversion layer may be configured on the nanorod light emitting diode. The color conversion layer may include quantum dots. Alternatively, the display element may be a quantum dot light emitting diode (Quantum dot Light Emitting Diode) including a quantum dot light emitting layer. Alternatively, the display element may be an inorganic light emitting diode including an inorganic semiconductor. A detailed description of the constituent elements included in the display panel 10 will be described later.

[0070] As mentioned above, the display device 1 may include a first area A1, a second area A2, and a curved area BA, and the first area A1 may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2, and a foldable area FA. Of course, the display device 1 includes a display panel 10, so it can be considered that the display panel 10 includes the first area A1, the second area A2, and the curved area BA as mentioned above. The first area A1 of the display panel 10 may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2, and a foldable area FA. In the following, for the convenience of description, the display panel 10 is described as having a first area A1, a second area A2, and a curved area BA.

[0071] On the other hand, the display panel 10 may include a first panel surface 10S1 and a second panel surface 10S2. The first panel surface 10S1 may correspond to the first surface S1 of the display device 1, and the second panel surface 10S2 may correspond to the second surface S2 of the display device 1. That is, the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may face the same direction as the first surface S1 of the display device 1 (e.g., the +z direction), and the second panel surface 10S2 of the display panel 10 may face the same direction as the second surface S2 of the display device 1 (e.g., the -z direction). In other words, the display panel 10 may include a first panel surface 10S1 and a second panel surface 10S2 opposite to the first panel surface 10S1.

[0072] Specifically, the display panel 10 is bent in the bending area BA so that at least a portion of the second area A2 can overlap with the first area A1 when viewed in the z-axis direction. That is, the display panel 10 can be bent in the bending area BA based on a bending axis BAX extending along a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction). The display panel 10 can display an image on a first panel surface 10S1. That is, the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may include a display surface. Specifically, the first panel surface 10S1 of the first area A1 of the display panel 10 may include a display surface. By bending the display panel 10 in the bending area BA, the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 and the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2 can be configured to face each other.

[0073] When the display panel 10 is in a state before being folded, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (e.g., +y direction or -y direction) intersecting the first direction. The first non-folding area NFA1 may be configured to be spaced apart from the bending area BA, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be configured to be adjacent to the bending area BA. The foldable area FA may be configured between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2, and may extend in a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction) intersecting a virtual straight line connecting the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0074] The folding line FL may be disposed in the foldable area FA along a first direction (e.g., +x direction or -x direction) which is an extension direction of the foldable area FA. Thus, the display panel 10 may be folded in the foldable area FA. The display panel 10 may be folded with the folding line FL as a reference so that the first panel surface 10S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first panel surface 10S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other. In other words, by bending the foldable area FA of the display panel 10, it may be configured so that the first panel surface 10S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first panel surface 10S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the display panel 10 may include a display area DA in which a plurality of pixels PX are configured and a peripheral area PA located outside the display area DA.

[0076] Each pixel PX of the display panel 10 is a region that can emit light of a predetermined color, and the display panel 10 can provide an image using the light emitted by the pixel PX. For example, each pixel PX can emit red, green, or blue light.

[0077] The display area DA is the area where images are provided, such as Figure 4 As shown, the display area DA may have a polygonal shape including a quadrilateral. For example, the display area DA may have a rectangular shape in which the horizontal length is longer than the vertical length, a rectangular shape in which the horizontal length is shorter than the vertical length, or a square shape. Alternatively, the display area DA may have various shapes such as an ellipse or a circle.

[0078] The peripheral area PA is a non-display area that does not provide an image, and may surround the entire display area DA. Specifically, no pixel PX is configured in the peripheral area PA, and a driver for providing an electrical signal or power to the pixel PX may be configured in the peripheral area PA. Figure 4 As shown, the peripheral area PA may include a pad area PDA, and pads (not shown) may be configured in the pad area PDA.

[0079] The display area DA may be configured in the first area A1. A portion of the peripheral area PA may be configured in the first area A1, another portion of the peripheral area PA may be configured in the bending area BA, and another portion of the peripheral area PA may be configured in the second area A2. Specifically, the pad area PDA of the peripheral area PA may be configured in the second area A2. The pads of the pad area PDA may be electrically connected to an electronic chip or a printed circuit substrate, etc. The pads may be configured to be spaced apart from each other in the pad area PDA, and the pads may be electrically connected to a plurality of connection wirings configured in the peripheral area PA. The connection wirings may electrically connect the pads to signal lines (e.g., data lines DL (refer to Figure 5 ) or scanning line SL (refer to Figure 5 )).

[0080] The cover window CW may be disposed on the display panel 10. Specifically, the cover window CW may be disposed on the first area A1 of the display panel 10. That is, the cover window CW may be configured to cover the first panel surface 10S1 of the first area A1 of the display panel 10. Such a cover window CW may function to protect the first panel surface 10S1 of the first area A1 of the display panel 10. The cover window CW may be attached to the display panel 10 via a first adhesive layer AL1. The first adhesive layer AL1 may include an adhesive component such as an optical clear adhesive (OCA) or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). A specific description of the first adhesive layer AL1 will be described later.

[0081] The cover window CW may have a high transmittance in order to transmit the light emitted from the display panel 10, and a thin thickness in order to minimize the weight of the display device 1. In addition, the cover window CW may have great strength and hardness in order to protect the display panel 10 from external impacts. The cover window CW may be a flexible window. The cover window CW may protect the display panel 10 while being easily bent with external force without generating cracks, etc. The cover window CW may include glass or plastic. In one embodiment, the cover window CW may include ultra-thin tempered glass (UTG) whose strength is enhanced by methods such as chemical strengthening or thermal strengthening. In other embodiments, the cover window CW may include a polymer resin.

[0082] The upper protective layer UPL can be configured on the cover window CW. The upper protective layer UPL can protect the cover window CW and can prevent or reduce scratches on the upper surface of the cover window CW. The upper protective layer UPL can be a plastic film including a polymer resin. For example, the upper protective layer UPL can include at least one of polymer resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethersulfone (PES), polypropylene (PP), and polyamide (PA).

[0083] The upper protective layer adhesive layer UPLa may be disposed between the cover window CW and the upper protective layer UPL. That is, the upper protective layer adhesive layer UPLa may be configured to cover the cover window CW, and the upper protective layer UPL may be configured on the upper protective layer adhesive layer UPLa. The upper protective layer adhesive layer UPLa may bond the cover window CW and the upper protective layer UPL. The upper protective layer adhesive layer UPLa may include an adhesive component such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0084] The lower protective layer may be arranged on the second panel surface 10S2 of the display panel 10. Specifically, the first lower protective layer LPL1 may be arranged on the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 of the display panel 10, and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may be arranged on the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2 of the display panel 10. In other words, by bending the display panel 10 in the bending area BA, the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 and the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2 may be arranged to face each other, so the first lower protective layer LPL1 may be arranged in the -z direction of the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 of the display panel 10, and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may be arranged in the +z direction of the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2 of the display panel 10. The first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may be spaced apart from each other with the bending area BA sandwiched therebetween. That is, the lower protective layer is not disposed on the second panel surface 10S2 of the bending area BA, so that the display panel 10 can be easily bent.

[0085] The first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may protect the display panel 10 from external influences. For example, the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may absorb physical impact from the outside, and the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may respectively block foreign matter or moisture from penetrating into the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may include an organic insulator such as polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), urethaneacrylate, and the like.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may further include a substance that blocks ultraviolet rays (UV). For example, the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may include a base resin, an ultraviolet absorber, and inorganic particles. The ultraviolet absorber and the inorganic particles may be arranged to be dispersed in the base resin. For example, the base resin may be an acrylate resin, such as urethane acrylate. However, the utility model is not limited thereto, and a base resin that is optically transparent and can disperse ultraviolet absorbers and inorganic particles may be used in the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 without limitation. For example, the ultraviolet absorber may include at least one of benzotriazol-based, benzophenone-based, salicylic acid-based, salicylate-based, cyanoacrylate-based, cinnamate-based, oxanilide-based, polystyrene-based, azomethine-based, and triazine-based compounds.

[0087] Although not shown in the figure, an adhesive component may be disposed between the display panel 10 and the first lower protective layer LPL1 and between the display panel 10 and the second lower protective layer LPL2. The first lower protective layer LPL1 and the second lower protective layer LPL2 may be attached to the second panel surface 10S2 of the display panel 10 in a film form by an adhesive component. The adhesive component may be a material known in the art without limitation. For example, the adhesive component may be an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0088] As described above, when the curved area BA of the display panel 10 is curved, the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 and the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2 may be arranged to face each other. When the curved area BA of the display panel 10 is curved, a spacer SP may be arranged between the second panel surface 10S2 of the first area A1 and the second panel surface 10S2 of the second area A2. The spacer SP may support the display panel 10 in the curved area BA.

[0089] The spacer SP may be bonded to each lower protective layer through an adhesive layer. Specifically, a first spacer adhesive layer SPa1 may be disposed between the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the spacer SP, and a second spacer adhesive layer SPa2 may be disposed between the second lower protective layer LPL2 and the spacer SP. The first spacer adhesive layer SPa1 may bond the first lower protective layer LPL1 and the spacer SP, and the second spacer adhesive layer SPa2 may bond the second lower protective layer LPL2 and the spacer SP. The first spacer adhesive layer SPa1 and the second spacer adhesive layer SPa2 may include an adhesive component such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0090] The driving unit DV may be disposed on the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10. Specifically, the driving unit DV may be disposed on the first panel surface 10S1 of the second area A2 of the display panel 10. The driving unit DV may receive a control signal and a power supply voltage, and generate and output a signal and a voltage for driving the display panel 10. The driving unit DV may include an integrated circuit (IC).

[0091] The curved protective layer BPL may be configured on the curved area BA and a portion of the first area A1 adjacent to the curved area BA. Specifically, the curved protective layer BPL may be configured on the first panel surface 10S1 of the curved area BA and a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 of the first area A1 adjacent to the curved area BA. That is, one end of the curved protective layer BPL and its edge position may be located on the first area A1 of the display panel 10 adjacent to the curved area BA. Thus, the curved protective layer BPL may cover the boundary between the curved area BA and the first area A1. In one embodiment, the curved protective layer BPL may also be configured on a portion of the second area A2 adjacent to the curved area BA. Specifically, the curved protective layer BPL may also be configured on a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 of the second area A2 adjacent to the curved area BA. That is, one end of the curved protective layer BPL and its edge position may be located on the first area A1 of the display panel 10 adjacent to the curved area BA, and the other end of the curved protective layer BPL and its edge position may be located on the second area A2 of the display panel 10 adjacent to the curved area BA. Thus, the bending protection layer BPL may cover a boundary between the bending area BA and the first area A1 and a boundary between the bending area BA and the second area A2.

[0092] The bending protection layer BPL can protect the bent display panel 10 from the influence of external impact, and can play a supporting role so as to well maintain the shape of the bent display panel 10 when the display panel 10 is bent. In addition, by having a bending protection layer BPL, the stress applied to the bending area BA of the display panel 10 can be minimized. In the case of bending a stacked structure including the display panel 10, a portion of the stacked structure may be subjected to compressive stress (compressive stress) or tensile stress (tensile stress) due to its position. A neutral plane (Neutral plane) as a position where the compressive stress and the tensile stress become 0 (zero) may exist in the stacked structure. That is, in the case of bending a stacked structure including the display panel 10, a compressive stress can be applied to the inside thereof and a tensile stress can be applied to the outside thereof with the neutral plane as a reference. The farther away from the neutral plane, the greater the compressive stress or tensile stress can be applied to the portion of the stacked structure. The bending protection layer BPL can move the neutral plane in the stacked structure including the display panel 10. That is, by appropriately adjusting the thickness and / or modulus of the bending protection layer BPL, the stress applied to the bending area BA of the display panel 10 can be adjusted. Thus, the stress applied to the display panel 10 can be eliminated, or even if there is stress applied to the display panel 10, it can be minimized.

[0093] The bending protection layer BPL may have a large modulus. For example, the bending protection layer BPL may have a modulus of 1197 MPa at -20°C, and the bending protection layer BPL may have a modulus of 232.4 MPa at 25°C. The bending protection layer BPL may include at least one of polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyimide. For example, the bending protection layer BPL may include a polymer resin such as polyethylene terephthalate or polyimide.

[0094] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel PX of the display panel 10 is shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, a pixel PX may include a display element and a pixel circuit PC electrically connected thereto. Figure 5 An organic light emitting diode OLED is shown as a display element.

[0095] The pixel circuit PC may include a first transistor T1, a second transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst. The second transistor T2 may be a switching transistor, connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, and turned on according to a switching signal input from the scan line SL, thereby transmitting a data signal input from the data line DL to the first transistor T1. The storage capacitor Cst may be electrically connected at one end to the second transistor T2 and at the other end to the driving voltage line PL, and stores a voltage equivalent to the difference between the voltage received from the second transistor T2 and the driving power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the driving voltage line PL.

[0096] The first transistor T1 may be a driving transistor, connected to the driving voltage line PL and the energy storage capacitor Cst, and controls the magnitude of the driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL to the organic light emitting diode OLED in accordance with the voltage value stored in the energy storage capacitor Cst. The organic light emitting diode OLED may emit light having a predetermined brightness according to the driving current. Figure 6 ) can receive the electrode power supply voltage ELVSS.

[0097] Figure 5 The case where the pixel circuit PC includes two transistors and one energy storage capacitor is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the number of transistors or the number of energy storage capacitors can be changed in various ways according to the design of the pixel circuit PC.

[0098] Figure 6 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display panel 10 included in a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 6 It is a schematic representation Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the display panel 10 taken along line II-II′.

[0099] like Figure 6As shown, the display panel 10 may include a substrate 100, a pixel circuit layer 200, a display element layer 300, and an encapsulation layer 400. The substrate 100 may include glass, metal, or a polymer resin. The substrate 100 requires flexibility or bendability. In this case, the substrate 100 may include a polymer resin such as polyethersulphone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylenenaphthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, polyphenylenesulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, or cellulose acetate propionate. Of course, the substrate 100 may have various deformations, such as a multilayer structure, which includes two layers containing such a polymer resin and a layer containing (silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ), silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ) etc.) inorganic barrier layer.

[0100] The pixel circuit layer 200 may be disposed on the substrate 100, and the pixel circuit layer 200 may include a thin film transistor TFT, an inorganic insulating layer IIL, and an organic insulating layer OIL. The thin film transistor TFT may include a semiconductor layer Act, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, and a drain electrode DE. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a gate insulating layer IIL1, a first interlayer insulating layer IIL2, and a second interlayer insulating layer IIL3. Figure 6 A thin film transistor TFT is shown in FIG. 1 , and this thin film transistor TFT may be equivalent to the aforementioned first transistor (driving transistor) T1 (refer to FIG. 1 ). Figure 5 ).

[0101] The semiconductor layer Act may be disposed on the substrate 100. The semiconductor layer Act may include polycrystalline silicon. Alternatively, the semiconductor layer Act may include amorphous silicon, an oxide semiconductor, or an organic semiconductor. In one embodiment, the semiconductor layer Act may include a channel region and a source region and a drain region respectively disposed on both sides of the channel region.

[0102] The gate insulating layer IIL1 may be disposed on the semiconductor layer Act and the substrate 100. The gate insulating layer IIL1 may include silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ), silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ), aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), Tantalum Oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ), hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ) or zinc oxide (ZnO x ) and other inorganic insulators. Zinc oxide (ZnO X ) may include zinc oxide (ZnO) and / or zinc peroxide (ZnO 2 ).

[0103] The gate electrode GE may be disposed on the gate insulating layer IIL1. That is, the gate insulating layer IIL1 is disposed between the semiconductor layer Act and the gate electrode GE, thereby ensuring the insulation between the semiconductor layer Act and the gate electrode GE. The gate electrode GE may overlap with the channel region of the semiconductor layer Act. The gate electrode GE may include a low-resistance metal material. In one embodiment, the gate electrode GE may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including such a conductive material.

[0104] The first interlayer insulating layer IIL2 may be disposed on the gate electrode GE and the gate insulating layer IIL1. The first interlayer insulating layer IIL2 may include silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ), silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ), aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), Tantalum Oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ), hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ) or zinc oxide (ZnO x ) and other inorganic insulating materials.

[0105] The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer IIL2. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may be connected to the semiconductor layer Act through contact holes formed in the gate insulating layer IIL1 and the first interlayer insulating layer IIL2, respectively. At least one of the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including such a conductive material. In one embodiment, at least one of the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may have a multi-layer structure of Ti / Al / Ti.

[0106] The second interlayer insulating layer IIL3 may be disposed on the source electrode SE, the drain electrode DE, and the first interlayer insulating layer IIL2. The second interlayer insulating layer IIL3 may include silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ), silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ), aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), Tantalum Oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ), hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ) or zinc oxide (ZnO x ) and other inorganic insulating materials.

[0107] An organic insulating layer OIL may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer IIL3. The organic insulating layer OIL may play a role in roughly flattening the upper portion of the pixel circuit layer 200. Such an organic insulating layer OIL may include organic substances such as acrylic acid, BCB (Benzocyclobutene) or HMDSO (hexamethyldisiloxane). Figure 6 Although the organic insulating layer OIL is a single layer, it may be a multi-layer layer, and various modifications are possible.

[0108] The display element layer 300 may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer 200. The display element layer 300 may include a display element 310 and a pixel defining layer 320. The display element 310 may be electrically connected to a thin film transistor TFT. The display element 310 may be, for example, an organic light emitting diode OLED including a pixel electrode 311, an opposing electrode 313, and an intermediate layer 312 therebetween as a light emitting layer. The situation in which the display element 310 is electrically connected to the thin film transistor TFT may be understood as the pixel electrode 311 of the organic light emitting diode OLED being electrically connected to the thin film transistor TFT.

[0109] The pixel electrode 311 may contact any one of the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE through a contact hole formed in the second interlayer insulating layer IIL3 and the organic insulating layer OIL, thereby being electrically connected to the thin film transistor TFT. Figure 6 FIG. 3 shows a state where the pixel electrode 311 contacts the source electrode SE. The pixel electrode 311 may include, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In 2 O 3 :indiumoxide), indium gallium oxide (IGO; indium gallium oxide) or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO; aluminum zincoxide) such conductive oxide. In other embodiments, the pixel electrode 311 may include a reflective film containing silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr) or their compounds. In other embodiments, the pixel electrode 311 may also include a reflective film made of ITO, IZO, ZnO or In above / below the aforementioned reflective film. 2 O 3 The film formed.

[0110] The pixel definition film 320 may cover the edge position of the pixel electrode 311. The pixel definition film 320 may have a pixel opening portion, and the pixel opening portion may overlap the pixel electrode 311. The pixel opening portion may define a light emitting area from which light is emitted from the display element 310. The pixel definition film 320 may include an organic insulator and / or an inorganic insulator. In some embodiments, the pixel definition film 320 may include a light blocking material.

[0111] The intermediate layer 312 may be disposed on a portion of the pixel electrode 311 and the pixel definition film 320. The intermediate layer 312 may include a low molecular weight substance or a high molecular weight substance. In the case where the intermediate layer 312 includes a low molecular weight substance, the intermediate layer 312 may have a structure in which a hole injection layer (HIL: Hole Injection Layer), a hole transport layer (HTL: Hole Transport Layer), a light emitting layer (EML: Emission Layer), an electron transport layer (ETL: Electron Transport Layer), an electron injection layer (EIL: Electron Injection Layer), etc. are stacked in one or more structures, and may be formed by a vacuum deposition method. In the case where the intermediate layer 312 includes a high molecular weight substance, the intermediate layer 312 may have a structure including a hole transport layer (HTL) and a light emitting layer (EML). At this time, the hole transport layer (HTL) may include PEDOT, and the light emitting layer (EML) may include high molecular weight substances such as PPV (polyphenylene vinylene) system and polyfluorene system. Such an intermediate layer 312 can be formed by screen printing or inkjet printing, laser induced thermal imaging (LITI), etc. Of course, the intermediate layer 312 is not necessarily limited thereto, and can also have various structures. In addition, the intermediate layer 312 can also include a layer formed as a whole via a plurality of pixel electrodes 311, and can also include a layer patterned corresponding to each of the plurality of pixel electrodes 311.

[0112] The counter electrode 313 may be disposed on the intermediate layer 312 and the pixel definition film 320. The counter electrode 313 may be formed as one body in a plurality of organic light emitting diodes OLED and correspond to a plurality of pixel electrodes 311. Such a counter electrode 313 may include ITO, In 2 O 3 The counter electrode 313 may be a light-transmitting conductive layer formed of Mg or IZO, and may include a semi-transmitting film containing a metal such as Al or Ag. For example, the counter electrode 313 may be a semi-transmitting film containing Mg or Ag.

[0113] Such a display element 310 is easily damaged by moisture or oxygen from the outside, so the encapsulation layer 400 can cover such a display element 310 to protect such a display element 310. Figure 6 As shown, the encapsulation layer 400 may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 410 , an organic encapsulation layer 420 , and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 430 .

[0114] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 410 may cover the counter electrode 313 and may include silicon oxide (SiOX ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and / or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ) etc. Of course, other layers such as a cap layer may be provided between the first inorganic encapsulation layer 410 and the counter electrode 313 as required. Such a first inorganic encapsulation layer 410 is formed along the structure below it, so Figure 6 As shown, its upper surface may not be flat. The organic encapsulation layer 420 may cover the first inorganic encapsulation layer 410, and unlike the first inorganic encapsulation layer 410, its upper surface may be substantially flat. The organic encapsulation layer 420 may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polyimide, polyethylene sulfonate, polyoxymethylene, polyarylate, and hexamethyldisiloxane. The second inorganic encapsulation layer 430 may cover the organic encapsulation layer 420 and may include silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and / or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y )wait.

[0115] As described above, the encapsulation layer 400 includes the first inorganic encapsulation layer 410, the organic encapsulation layer 420, and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 430. Even if cracks are generated in the encapsulation layer 400 due to the multi-layer structure as described above, the cracks may not affect the first inorganic encapsulation layer 410 and the organic encapsulation layer 420 or the organic encapsulation layer 420 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 430. Thus, it is possible to prevent or minimize the formation of a path for moisture or oxygen from the outside to penetrate into the interior of the display panel 10.

[0116] Figure 7 This is a schematic enlargement. Figure 3 As described above, in addition to configuring the bending protection layer BPL on the first panel surface 10S1 in the bending area BA, the bending protection layer BPL may also be configured on a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 in the first area A1 adjacent to the bending area BA.

[0117] like Figure 7As shown, the first adhesive layer AL1 may be arranged on the first area A1, and a portion of the curved protective layer BPL may be interposed between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1. The portion of the curved protective layer BPL interposed between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1 may include a first inclined surface SL1. That is, the thickness of the portion of the curved protective layer BPL interposed between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1 may increase toward the direction of the curved area BA. The first inclined surface SL1 of the curved protective layer BPL and the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may form a first angle θ1. A portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may be arranged on the first inclined surface SL1 of the curved protective layer BPL. That is, on a plane, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may overlap with a portion of the curved protective layer BPL.

[0118] Typically, when the display panel is exposed to the outside, static electricity generated during the manufacturing process of the display device or after the manufacturing process is completed may flow into the portion of the display panel exposed to the outside, causing the display panel to malfunction or be damaged. Specifically, when a portion of the first adhesive layer does not overlap with a portion of the curved protective layer and the first adhesive layer and the curved protective layer are configured to be spaced apart from each other, the portion of the display panel between the first adhesive layer and the curved protective layer (i.e., the portion of the display panel not covered by the first adhesive layer or the curved protective layer) may be exposed to the outside. During the manufacturing process of the display device or in use, friction may occur between the display device and the user and / or an external object, and static electricity may be generated due to such friction. Such static electricity may flow into the interior of the display panel through the portion of the display panel exposed to the outside. The display panel may be malfunctioned or damaged due to the static electricity flowing into the interior of the display panel. That is, due to electrostatic discharge (ESD), the display panel may be malfunctioned or damaged.

[0119] However, in the case of this embodiment, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may overlap a portion of the bending protection layer BPL. That is, the first area A1 of the display panel 10 may be covered by the first adhesive layer AL1 and / or the bending protection layer BPL. Therefore, static electricity does not flow into the inside of the display panel 10. As a result, the display panel 10 does not malfunction, and the display panel 10 is not damaged.

[0120] On the other hand, as described above, the display device 1 can be folded in the foldable area FA. In this case, adjacent layers stacked with adhesive layers sandwiched therebetween, such as the display panel 10, the cover window CW, or the upper protective layer UPL, can cause a slip phenomenon along the surface. In other words, the display panel 10 can be folded in the foldable area FA. Specifically, as the foldable area FA of the display panel 10 is bent, when the display panel 10 is folded so that the first panel surface 10S1 of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the first panel surface 10S1 of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other, a portion of the layer (e.g., the first adhesive layer AL1 or the cover window CW) disposed on the upper portion of the first area A1 of the display panel 10 can move in the direction of the bending area BA. That is, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 and a portion of the cover window CW disposed on the upper portion of the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display panel 10 can move in the direction of the bending area BA.

[0121] Since the curved protective layer BPL does not include the first inclined surface SL1, when the side surface of the curved protective layer BPL is in surface contact with the side surface of the layer (e.g., the first adhesive layer AL1 or the cover window CW) disposed on the upper portion of the first area A1 of the display panel 10, it is not easy to slip. That is, even if a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 and a portion of the cover window CW disposed on the upper portion of the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display panel 10 want to move toward the direction of the curved area BA, the curved protective layer BPL in surface contact with the side surface of such first adhesive layer AL1 and the side surface of the cover window CW may hinder the movement of such first adhesive layer AL1 and the cover window CW. The resulting pressure may be applied to the display panel 10, and cracks may be generated in the display panel 10.

[0122] However, in the case of this embodiment, the curved protective layer BPL includes a first inclined surface SL1, so the side of the curved protective layer BPL may not be in surface contact with the side of the layer (for example, the first adhesive layer AL1 or the cover window CW) disposed on the upper portion of the first area A1 of the display panel 10. Furthermore, since the first adhesive layer AL1 is disposed on the first inclined surface SL1, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 and a portion of the cover window CW disposed on the upper portion of the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display panel 10 may move along the first inclined surface SL1 toward the direction of the curved area BA. Therefore, a sliding phenomenon is easily generated. As a result, no pressure is applied to the display panel 10, and thus no cracks are generated in the display panel 10.

[0123] In one embodiment, the first angle θ1 formed by the first inclined surface SL1 of the curved protective layer BPL and the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may be greater than about 2° and less than about 14°. When the first angle θ1 is less than about 2°, the thickness of the curved protective layer BPL may be too thin. As a result, static electricity may flow into the interior of the display panel 10, and the display panel 10 may be misoperated or damaged due to the inflow of static electricity. When the first angle θ1 is greater than about 14°, a portion of the layer disposed on the upper portion of the first area A1 of the display panel 10 overlapping with the curved protective layer BPL may be lifted in the +z direction. That is, a portion of the first area A1 of the display device 1 adjacent to the curved area BA may be lifted in the +z direction. As a result, the first surface S1 of the display device 1 may be uneven, and the display quality of the display device 1 may be reduced.

[0124] In one embodiment, the cover window CW may protrude more toward the bending area BA than the first adhesive layer AL1. In other words, the cover window CW may protrude more toward the lateral direction (e.g., -y direction) than the first adhesive layer AL1. That is, on a plane, one side of the cover window CW in the direction of the bending area BA may be configured to be closer to the bending area BA than one side of the first adhesive layer AL1 in the direction of the bending area BA. In other embodiments, on a plane, one side of the cover window CW in the direction of the bending area BA may overlap with one side of the first adhesive layer AL1 in the direction of the bending area BA.

[0125] Generally, after a cover window having an adhesive layer (e.g., a first adhesive layer) attached to one side is disposed on a display panel, the cover window is pressed to attach the cover window to the display panel. In a case where the adhesive layer attached to one side of the cover window is larger than the cover window (e.g., the adhesive layer protrudes laterally than the cover window), when the cover window is pressed, a portion of the adhesive layer protruding laterally than the cover window may not be sufficiently pressed.

[0126] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the shape of the first adhesive layer of the display device according to the comparative example. Figure 8 As shown, when the first adhesive layer AL1 protrudes more toward the curved area BA than the cover window CW, the portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 overlapping the curved protective layer BPL may be lifted in the +z direction. In other words, with the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 as a reference, one end of the portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 overlapping the curved protective layer BPL has a first height h1, and the portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 not overlapping the curved protective layer BPL has a second height h2, and the first height h1 is greater than the second height h2. As a result, the upper surface (in the +z direction) of the first adhesive layer AL1 may be uneven, and the display quality of the display device 1 may be reduced.

[0127] However, in the case of the display device 1 involved in this embodiment, the cover window CW can protrude further toward the curved area BA than the first adhesive layer AL1. Therefore, when the cover window CW is pressurized during the manufacturing process of the display device 1, the first adhesive layer AL1 can be fully pressurized. Therefore, the upper surface (in the +z direction) of the first adhesive layer AL1 can become flat, and the display quality of the display device 1 will not be reduced.

[0128] exist Figure 3 and Figure 7 3 shows a case where the first adhesive layer AL1 is directly in contact with the cover window CW, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0129] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section. Fig. 9 As shown, a functional layer OFL and a second adhesive layer AL2 may also be disposed between the first adhesive layer AL1 and the cover window CW.

[0130] The functional layer OFL may be between the first adhesive layer AL1 and the cover window CW. Specifically, the functional layer OFL may be disposed on the first adhesive layer AL1. In one embodiment, the functional layer OFL may be an optical functional layer that reduces the reflectivity of light (e.g., external light) incident from the outside toward the display panel 10. Thus, the functional layer OFL may improve the color purity of the light emitted from the display panel 10. The functional layer OFL may include a polarizing film having a retarder and a polarizer. The retarder may include a λ / 2 retarder and / or a λ / 4 retarder. In this case, the first adhesive layer AL1 may be between the functional layer OFL and the display panel 10. The first adhesive layer AL1 may serve to attach the functional layer OFL to the display panel 10.

[0131] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be interposed between the functional layer OFL and the cover window CW. Specifically, the second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed on the functional layer OFL. The cover window CW may be attached to the functional layer OFL through the second adhesive layer AL2. The second adhesive layer AL2 may include an adhesive component such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0132] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a display device 2 according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section, Fig.11 This is a schematic enlargement. Fig.10The display device 2 of this embodiment is different from the display device 2 of the reference Figures 1 to 7 The display device 1 described above is similar to that described above, so the following description will be based on the reference Figures 1 to 7 The following description will focus on the differences between the display device 1 and the display device 1. Fig.10 and Fig.11 Zhongyu Figures 1 to 7 The same reference numerals denote the same components, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0133] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The illustrated display device 1 may include a display panel 10, a cover window CW, an upper protection layer UPL, a first lower protection layer LPL1, a second lower protection layer LPL2, a spacer SP, a driving part DV, a bending protection layer BPL, a first adhesive layer AL1, an upper protection layer adhesive layer UPLa, a first spacer adhesive layer SPa1, and a second spacer adhesive layer SPa2. Figures 1 to 7 The bending protection layer BPL of the display device 1 described above can be disposed on the bending area BA and a portion of the first area A1 adjacent to the bending area BA. Specifically, the bending protection layer BPL can be disposed on the first panel surface 10S1 of the bending area BA and a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 of the first area A1 adjacent to the bending area BA. Fig.10 As shown, in the case of the display device 2 involved in this embodiment, the display device 2 may also include a display panel 10, a cover window CW, an upper protection layer UPL, a first lower protection layer LPL1, a second lower protection layer LPL2, a spacer SP, a driving unit DV, a bending protection layer BPL, a first adhesive layer AL1, an upper protection layer adhesive layer UPLa, a first spacer adhesive layer SPa1, and a second spacer adhesive layer SPa2. The bending protection layer BPL of the display device 2 may be arranged on the bending area BA and a portion of the first area A1 adjacent to the bending area BA.

[0134] However, if Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, a portion of the curved protective layer BPL may not be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1. That is, the first adhesive layer AL1 and the curved protective layer BPL may be configured to be spaced apart from each other. That is, on a plane, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may not overlap with a portion of the curved protective layer BPL. Therefore, the curved protective layer BPL may not be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1. The curved protective layer BPL of the display device 2 involved in this embodiment may be configured on the curved area BA and a portion of the first area A1 adjacent to the curved area BA, and a portion of the curved protective layer BPL may not be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0135] In the case of the display device 2 involved in this embodiment, the display device 2 may further include a sliding auxiliary layer SSL. The sliding auxiliary layer SSL may be arranged between the first adhesive layer AL1 and the bending protection layer BPL. A portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1. That is, on a plane, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may overlap with a portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL. In other words, a portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1. On the other hand, another portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may overlap with a portion of the bending protection layer BPL. That is, another portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may be arranged on the bending protection layer BPL. In other words, another portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may cover a portion of the bending protection layer BPL that is a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 arranged in the first area A1.

[0136] like Fig.11 As shown, the curved protective layer BPL of a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 configured in the first area A1 may include a second inclined surface SL2. That is, the thickness of the portion of the curved protective layer BPL of a portion of the first panel surface 10S1 configured in the first area A1 may increase toward the direction of the curved area BA. The second inclined surface SL2 of the curved protective layer BPL may form a second angle θ2 with the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10.

[0137] A portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1 may include a third inclined surface SL3. That is, the thickness of the portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1 may increase toward the direction of the bending area BA. The third inclined surface SL3 of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL and the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may form a third angle θ3. A portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may be disposed on the third inclined surface SL3 of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL. That is, on a plane, a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 may overlap with a portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL. In other words, a portion of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL may be between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0138] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The description of the effect when a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 overlaps with a portion of the bent protective layer BPL and the effect when the bent protective layer BPL includes a first inclined surface SL1 can also be applied to the effect when a portion of the first adhesive layer AL1 overlaps with a portion of the sliding assist layer SSL and the effect when the sliding assist layer SSL includes a third inclined surface SL3, and therefore repeated description thereof is omitted.

[0139] In one embodiment, the third angle θ3 formed by the third inclined surface SL3 of the sliding assist layer SSL and the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10 may be greater than about 2° and less than about 14°. When the third angle θ3 is less than about 2°, the thickness of the sliding assist layer SSL may be too thin. As a result, static electricity may flow into the interior of the display panel 10, and the display panel 10 may be misoperated or damaged due to the inflow of static electricity. When the third angle θ3 is greater than about 14°, a portion of the layer disposed on the upper portion of the first area A1 of the display panel 10 overlapping the sliding assist layer SSL may be lifted in the +z direction. That is, a portion of the first area A1 of the display device 2 adjacent to the curved area BA may be lifted in the +z direction. As a result, the first surface S1 of the display device 2 may be uneven, and the display quality of the display device 2 may be reduced.

[0140] On the other hand, the sliding assist layer SSL may have a low modulus. That is, the sliding assist layer SSL may have a lower modulus than the bending protection layer BPL. For example, the sliding assist layer SSL may have a modulus of 0.09 MPa at -20°C, and the sliding assist layer SSL may have a modulus of 0.03 MPa at 25°C. To this end, the sliding assist layer SSL may include a substance different from the substance included in the bending protection layer BPL. In one embodiment, the sliding assist layer SSL may include a silicon-based compound. The silicon-based compound may be an organic silicon compound including silicon. Specifically, the silicon-based compound may include a siloxane-based polymer substance. For example, the silicon-based compound may include polydimethylsiloxane.

[0141] Typically, a layer including organic matter, such as a bending protection layer or a sliding auxiliary layer, can be formed by coating a substance for forming such a layer on a display panel and then curing it using heat or light. The angle formed by the inclined surface of such a layer and one side of the display panel may be different depending on the viscosity of the substance used to form such a layer. Specifically, the substance used to form the layer including organic matter may include a monomer having fluidity and may have viscosity. In the case where the viscosity of the substance used to form the layer including organic matter is large, the angle formed by the inclined surface of such a layer and one side of the display panel may be large. Different from this, in the case where the viscosity of the substance used to form the layer including organic matter is small, the angle formed by the inclined surface of such a layer and one side of the display panel may be small.

[0142] In the case of a large modulus such as the bending protection layer BPL, the viscosity of the material used to form such a bending protection layer BPL can be large. For example, the viscosity of the bending protection layer forming material can be 950cps. In this case, it is not easy to reduce the angle formed by the inclined surface of the bending protection layer BPL and the one side of the display panel 10. Different from this, in the case of a low modulus such as the sliding auxiliary layer SSL, the viscosity of the material used to form such a sliding auxiliary layer SSL can be low. For example, the viscosity of the sliding auxiliary layer forming material can be above 39cps and below 98cps. As a result, it is easy to reduce the angle formed by the inclined surface of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL and the one side of the display panel 10. Therefore, it is easier to make the inclined surface of the layer between the display panel 10 and the first adhesive layer AL1 have an appropriate angle with the one side of the display panel 10. That is, the third angle θ3 formed by the third inclined surface SL3 of the sliding auxiliary layer SSL and the first panel surface 10S1 can be smaller than the second angle θ2 formed by the second inclined surface SL2 of the bending protection layer BPL and the first panel surface 10S1 of the display panel 10.

[0143] exist Fig.10 and Fig.11 3 shows a case where the first adhesive layer AL1 is directly in contact with the cover window CW, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0144] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device 2 according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing Figure 3 The corresponding cross section. Fig.12 As shown, a functional layer OFL and a second adhesive layer AL2 may also be disposed between the first adhesive layer AL1 and the cover window CW. Fig.12 In, with Figures 9 to 11 The same reference numerals denote the same components, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0145] Specifically, the functional layer OFL may be between the first adhesive layer AL1 and the cover window CW. In this case, the first adhesive layer AL1 may be between the functional layer OFL and the display panel 10. The first adhesive layer AL1 may serve to attach the functional layer OFL to the display panel 10. The second adhesive layer AL2 may be between the functional layer OFL and the cover window CW. Specifically, the second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed on the functional layer OFL. The cover window CW may be attached to the functional layer OFL through the second adhesive layer AL2.

[0146] As described above, the present invention is described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but this is only an example, and those skilled in the art should be able to understand that various modifications and other equivalent embodiments can be implemented therefrom. Therefore, the true technical protection scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical ideas of the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that: have: The display panel comprises a first area, a second area and a curved area arranged between the first area and the second area; A first adhesive layer, disposed on the first region; a cover window, disposed on the first adhesive layer; as well as a bending protection layer, arranged on the bending area and a portion of the first area adjacent to the bending area, A portion of the curved protection layer is interposed between the display panel and the first adhesive layer. The portion of the curved protection layer between the display panel and the first adhesive layer includes an inclined surface.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that A portion of the first adhesive layer is disposed on the inclined surface of the curved protection layer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that The thickness of the portion of the bending protection layer between the display panel and the first adhesive layer increases toward the bending region.

4. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that The display panel includes a first panel surface and a second panel surface opposite to the first panel surface. The bending protection layer is arranged on the first panel surface, A first angle formed by the inclined surface of the curved protection layer and the first panel surface is greater than or equal to 2° and less than or equal to 14°.

5. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that The cover window protrudes further toward the bending area than the first adhesive layer.

6. The display device according to claim 5, characterized in that: On a plane, one side of the cover window in a direction of the curved region is arranged closer to the curved region than one side of the first adhesive layer in a direction of the curved region.

7. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: a functional layer, disposed between the first adhesive layer and the cover window; as well as The second adhesive layer is between the functional layer and the cover window.

8. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The functional layer includes a polarizing film.

9. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first region includes a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a foldable region disposed between the first non-folding region and the second non-folding region. The first non-folding area is configured to be spaced apart from the bending area, The second non-folding area is configured to be adjacent to the bending area, The display panel is folded in the foldable region.

10. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: an upper protective layer, disposed on the cover window; as well as The upper protective layer adhesive layer is located between the cover window and the upper protective layer.

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