Separation device

Abstract

A separation apparatus includes: a separation unit including a chiseled edge portion in line contact with a side surface of a separation object having a thickness in a first direction; and a thickness measuring unit which is in contact with an upper surface of the separation object so as to maintain a distance between the upper surface and the chiseled edge portion in the first direction as a predetermined distance. The separation unit further includes: a first surface inclined at a first angle with respect to a lower surface of the separation object; and a second surface inclined at a second angle different from the first angle with respect to the lower surface of the separation object. The chiseled edge portion is defined by the first surface and the second surface connected to the first surface.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0042753 filed on Mar. 31, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a separation device, and more particularly to a separation device for separating an object including a window that needs to be separated. Background Art

[0003] Display devices are applied to various multimedia devices, such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, game units, etc., to provide image information to users. In recent years, foldable or bendable flexible display devices are being developed.

[0004] A flexible display device includes a foldable or bendable display module and a window. The window included in the display device effectively provides image information provided from the display module to the outside and protects the display module from external impact.

[0005] The window is attached to the display device to protect the display module from external scratches and impacts. As the thickness of the window is gradually reduced, when the window and the display module are separated from each other by a separation device, damage to the window may occur due to the separation device. Utility Model Content

[0006] The present disclosure provides a separation device capable of preventing window damage.

[0007] An embodiment of the utility model concept provides a separation device, comprising: a separation unit, comprising a chisel-edge portion, the chisel-edge portion being in line contact with a side surface of a separation object having a thickness in a first direction; and a thickness measuring unit, being in contact with an upper surface of the separation object, and a distance between the chisel-edge portion and the upper surface of the separation object in the first direction being a predetermined distance. The separation unit further comprises: a first surface, inclined at a first angle relative to a lower surface of the separation object; and a second surface, inclined at a second angle different from the first angle relative to the lower surface of the separation object. The chisel-edge portion is defined by the first surface and the second surface connected to the first surface.

[0008] The first angle is less than the second angle, and the second angle is greater than approximately zero (0) degrees and less than approximately 90 degrees.

[0009] The thickness measuring unit includes: a supporting member extending in the first direction above the upper surface of the separation object and including a rotation axis substantially parallel to the upper surface of the separation object; and a roller rotatably coupled to the supporting member, rotatable about the rotation axis, and in contact with the upper surface of the separation object.

[0010] The thickness measuring unit includes an ultrasonic sensor or a laser displacement sensor.

[0011] The separating apparatus further includes a supporting unit coupled to the separating unit and the thickness measuring unit.

[0012] The separation device further includes a height control unit for adjusting a height of the separation unit or the thickness measurement unit, thereby adjusting the distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the separation object in the first direction.

[0013] The separating apparatus further includes a moving unit for moving the separating unit and the thickness measuring unit.

[0014] The separation object includes: a lower member including a surface defining the lower surface of the separation object; a glass substrate provided on the lower member and including a surface defining the upper surface of the separation object; and an adhesive member provided between the lower member and the glass substrate and including a surface defining the side surface of the separation object. The point at which the chiseled edge portion is in line contact with the side surface of the separation object is spaced apart from the glass substrate and the lower member.

[0015] The first surface is spaced apart from the lower member, and the second surface is spaced apart from the glass substrate.

[0016] The thickness of the glass substrate is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the bonding member.

[0017] The separation apparatus further includes a workbench for supporting the lower member. The lower member includes: an optical member disposed on the workbench; and a base film disposed on the optical member and in contact with the adhesive member.

[0018] An embodiment of the present invention provides a separation device, comprising: a separation unit, comprising a chiseled edge portion, a first surface, and a second surface connected to the first surface, the chiseled edge portion being in line contact with a side surface of the second member of a separation object including a first member, a second member, and a third member stacked in a first direction; and a thickness measuring unit, being in contact with an upper surface of the third member. The chiseled edge portion is defined by the first surface and the second surface, each of the first surface and the second surface is inclined relative to a lower surface of the second member, and a distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the third member in the first direction is greater than a thickness of the third member.

[0019] The first surface is inclined at a first angle relative to the lower surface of the second member, and the second surface is inclined at a second angle different from the first angle relative to the lower surface of the second member.

[0020] The separation apparatus further includes a height control unit for adjusting a height of the separation unit or the thickness measurement unit, thereby adjusting the distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the third member in the first direction.

[0021] The thickness measuring unit includes: a supporting member extending in the first direction above the upper surface of the third member and including a rotation axis substantially parallel to the upper surface of the third member; and a roller rotatably coupled to the supporting member, rotatable about the rotation axis, and in contact with the upper surface of the third member.

[0022] The first angle is less than the second angle, and the second angle is greater than approximately zero (0) degrees and less than approximately 90 degrees.

[0023] The thickness of the third member is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the second member, and the chiseled edge portion is spaced apart from the first member and the third member.

[0024] The first surface is spaced apart from the first member, and the second surface is spaced apart from the third member.

[0025] According to the above, the separation apparatus prevents damage from occurring in the window by allowing the separation unit to be spaced apart from the window as the third member.

[0026] According to the above, the separation apparatus prevents damage from occurring in the lower member by allowing the separation unit to be spaced apart from the lower member.

[0027] According to the above, the separation unit of the separation device is in line contact with the separation object to separate the separation object having a thin thickness.

[0028] According to the above, the thickness measuring unit of the separation apparatus measures the thickness of the separation object, and thus the position of the separation unit is adjusted according to the measured thickness of the separation object.

[0029] According to the above, the separation apparatus maintains a constant distance between the thickness measuring unit and the separation unit to allow the separation unit to come into line contact with the separation object at a specific position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The above and other advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent by referring to the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1A is an assembled perspective view of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 1B is an assembled perspective view of an inwardly foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 1C is an assembled perspective view of an outwardly foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2A is an assembled perspective view of a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 2B is an assembled perspective view of an inwardly foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a separation object according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C is an enlarged view of a portion of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0042] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In the present disclosure, it will be understood that when an element (or region, layer or portion) is referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present.

[0044] The same number always refers to the same element. In the drawings, the proportions and sizes (e.g., thickness) of the components are exaggerated in order to effectively describe the technical content. As used herein, the term "and / or" may include any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0045] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. can be used to describe various elements in this article, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure, the first element discussed below can be referred to as the second element. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as “under,” “below,” “lower,” “over,” “upper,” etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to other elements or features as shown in the figures.

[0047] It will be further understood that the terms “include” and / or “comprising”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1A is an assembly perspective view of a display device DD in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1B is an assembled perspective view of an inwardly folded display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 1C is an assembled perspective view of an outward-folding display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] The display device DD may be a device that is activated in response to an electrical signal. As an example, the display device DD may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a car navigation unit, a game unit, or a wearable unit, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. In this embodiment, a mobile phone will be described as the display device DD.

[0052] At the same time, Figure 1A In and subsequent drawings, a first direction DR1′, a second direction DR2′, and a third direction DR3′ are shown, and directions indicated by the first direction DR1′, the second direction DR2′, and the third direction DR3′ may be relative concepts and may be changed to other directions.

[0053] refer to Figures 1A to 1C , the display device DD may include a first display surface FS defined by a first direction DR1′ and a second direction DR2′ intersecting the first direction DR1′. The display device DD may provide an image IM to a user through the first display surface FS. The display device DD may display the image IM toward a third direction DR3′ through the first display surface FS substantially parallel to each of the first direction DR1′ and the second direction DR2′. In the present embodiment, the front (or upper) surface and the rear (or lower) surface of each component of the display device DD may be defined relative to the direction in which the image IM is displayed. The front surface and the rear surface may be opposite to each other in the third direction DR3′, and the normal direction of each of the front surface and the rear surface may be substantially parallel to the third direction DR3′.

[0054] The display device DD may include a first display surface FS and a second display surface RS. The first display surface FS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. An electronic module area (not shown) may be included in the display area DA. The second display surface RS may be opposite to at least a portion of the first display surface FS. That is, the second display surface RS may be defined as a portion of the rear surface of the display device DD.

[0055] The display device DD may sense an external input applied thereto from the outside. The external input may include various forms of input provided from the outside of the display device DD. For example, the external input may include a proximity input (e.g., hovering) applied when approaching or being adjacent to the display device DD at a predetermined distance and a touch input of a part of the user's body (e.g., the user's hand). In addition, the external input may be provided in the form of force (e.g., pressure), temperature, light, etc.

[0056] The display device DD may include a folding area FA1 and non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2. The display device DD may include a first non-folding area NFA1 and a second non-folding area NFA2 spaced apart from the first non-folding area NFA1, with the folding area FA1 interposed therebetween. Figures 1A to 1C A display device DD including one folding area FA1 is shown as a representative example, however, the display device DD should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the display device DD may include a plurality of folding areas defined therein.

[0057] refer to Figure 1B , the display device DD may be folded with respect to a first folding axis FX1. The first folding axis FX1 may be an imaginary axis extending in a first direction DR1′ to be substantially parallel to a direction in which a long side of the display device DD extends. The first folding axis FX1 may extend in the first direction DR1′ on the first display surface FS.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 may be disposed adjacent to each other with the folding area FA1 interposed therebetween. For example, the first non-folding area NFA1 may be disposed adjacent to one side of the folding area FA1 in the second direction DR2′, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding area FA1 in the second direction DR2′.

[0059] The display device DD can be folded around the first folding axis FX1 to be in an inward folding (inward folding) state in which one area of ​​the first display surface FS overlapping the first non-folding area NFA1 faces another area of ​​the first display surface FS overlapping the second non-folding area NFA2. At the same time, when the display device DD is in the inward folding state, the user can see the second display surface RS. The second display surface RS may further include an electronic module area in which an electronic module including various components is provided.

[0060] refer to Figure 1C , the display device DD can be folded about the first folding axis FX1 to be in an outward folded (outward folded) state in which one area of ​​the second display surface RS overlapping with the first non-folding area NFA1 faces another area of ​​the second display surface RS overlapping with the second non-folding area NFA2. However, the display device DD should not be limited to or thereby. According to one embodiment, the display device DD can be folded about a plurality of folding axes so that a portion of the first display surface FS and a portion of the second display surface RS can face each other, and the number of folding axes and the number of non-folding areas should not be particularly limited.

[0061] The display device DD may include various electronic modules. For example, the electronic module may include at least one of a camera, a speaker, an optical sensor, and a thermal sensor. The electronic module may sense an external object through the first display surface FS or the second display surface RS, or the electronic module may provide a sound signal such as a voice to the outside through the first display surface FS or the second display surface RS. In addition, the electronic module may include a plurality of components, however, it should not be limited to a specific embodiment.

[0062] Figure 2A is an assembly perspective view of a display device DD-a in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2B is an assembly perspective view of an inwardly foldable display device DD-a according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] The display device DD-a can be folded about a second folding axis FX2 extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction DR1′. Figure 2B In the embodiment, the second folding axis FX2 extends substantially parallel to the direction in which the short side of the display device DD-a extends, however, the present disclosure should not be limited to or thereby.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the display device DD-a may include at least one folding area FA2 and non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 defined adjacent to the folding area FA2. The non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 may be spaced apart from each other with the folding area FA2 interposed therebetween.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the display device DD-a may be folded inward (inwardly folded) so that the third non-folding area NFA3 and the fourth non-folding area NFA4 may face each other and the first display surface FS may not be exposed to the outside. Figure 2B Differently, the display device DD-a can be folded outward (outward folding) so that the first display surface FS can be exposed to the outside. According to an embodiment, the display device DD-a may include a first display surface FS and a second display surface RS, and the first display surface FS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. In addition, the display device DD-a may further include various electronic modules.

[0066] refer to Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 1C , Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe display devices DD and DD-a described may be configured to repeat the unfolding operation and the inner folding operation, or to repeat the unfolding operation and the outer folding operation, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to one embodiment, the display devices DD and DD-a may selectively operate in any one of the unfolding operation, the inner folding operation, and the outer folding operation. Although not shown in the figure, according to one embodiment, the display device may be a flexible display device including a plurality of folding regions or at least one bendable or rollable portion.

[0067] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A An exploded perspective view of a display device DD. Figure 3 , the display device DD may include a display panel DP and a window WM disposed on the display panel DP. The window WM may be disposed on at least one of an upper portion and a lower portion of the display panel DP. Figure 3 A structure is shown in which a window WM is provided on the display panel DP.

[0069] In addition, the display device DD may further include an electronic module (not shown) disposed under the display panel DP. As an example, the electronic module (not shown) may include a camera module.

[0070] The display device DD may further include an adhesive member AF and / or a lower member UM disposed between the display panel DP and the window WM.

[0071] The adhesive member AF may be disposed between the window WM and the lower member UM. The window WM and the lower member UM may be coupled to each other by the adhesive member AF. According to one embodiment, the adhesive member AF may include an optically transparent resin. However, the adhesive member AF should not be limited to the optically transparent resin and may include a conventional adhesive. As an example, the adhesive member AF may include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA). In addition, according to one embodiment, the adhesive member AF may include an optically transparent adhesive film.

[0072] The lower member UM may include an optical layer. The lower member UM may include a polarizing layer, a color filter layer, a layer containing a dye, a black matrix layer, a delay layer, or an adhesive layer. In addition, the lower member UM may further include a functional layer. Some layers of the lower member UM may be omitted in the lower member UM, and the positions of the layers of the lower member UM may be interchanged with each other. However, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby.

[0073] As an example, the lower member UM may not include a rigid layer so that the lower member UM can be flexibly folded or bent, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, according to the design required for the product, the lower member UM may include a rigid layer, and it should not be particularly limited.

[0074] The display device DD may further include a housing HAU that accommodates the display panel DP, the adhesive member AF, and the lower member UM. The window WM and the housing HAU may be connected to each other to provide the appearance of the display device DD. The housing HAU may include a material having relatively high rigidity. As an example, the housing HAU may include a plurality of frames and / or plates formed of glass, plastic, or metal materials. The display panel DP may be accommodated in the accommodating space of the housing HAU and may be protected from external impacts. Although not shown in the figure, the housing HAU may further include a hinge structure to allow the display device DD to be easily folded or bent.

[0075] The display panel DP may display an image IM in response to the electrical signal (refer to Figure 1A ), and may transmit / receive information about external input. The display panel DP may include a sensor layer disposed thereon.

[0076] The display panel DP may include an active area AA and a peripheral area NAA. The active area AA may provide an image IM (refer to Figure 1A ). The pixels PX may be arranged in the active area AA. The peripheral area NAA may be arranged adjacent to the active area AA. The peripheral area NAA may surround the active area AA. A driving circuit or a driving line may be arranged in the peripheral area NAA to drive the active area AA.

[0077] The display panel DP may include pixels PX. The pixels PX may display light in response to an electrical signal. The light displayed by the pixels PX may be implemented as an image IM (refer to Figure 1A ). Each of the pixels PX may include a display element. As an example, the display element may be an organic light emitting element, an inorganic light emitting element, an organic-inorganic light emitting element, a micro LED, a nano LED, a quantum dot light emitting element, an electrophoretic element, or an electrowetting element.

[0078] The window WM may completely cover the upper surface of the display panel DP. The window WM may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the display panel DP. The window WM may have flexibility, and thus the shape of the window WM may change according to the folding or bending of the display device DD. The window WM may protect the display panel DP from external impact.

[0079] The window WM may include a transmissive area TA and a frame area BZA. The transmissive area TA may overlap at least a portion of the active area AA of the display panel DP. The transmissive area TA may be an optically transparent area. For example, the transmissive area TA may have a transmittance of about 90% or more with respect to visible light. Figure 1A ) can be provided to the user through the transmissive area TA, and the user can see from the image IM (reference Figure 1A ) to receive information.

[0080] The transmittance of the border area BZA may be lower than the transmittance of the transmission area TA. The border area BZA may define the shape of the transmission area TA. The border area BZA may have a predetermined color. The border area BZA may cover the peripheral area NAA of the display panel DP to prevent the peripheral area NAA from being seen from the outside, however, this is only an example. According to one embodiment, the border area BZA may be omitted from the window WM.

[0081] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a window WM according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a cross section of a window WM of a display device DD shown in FIG. Figure 3 The line II' is intercepted. Figure 4 , the window WM may include a glass substrate GL.

[0083] Figure 4 The glass substrate GL may be a processing object obtained after completing a process to be described later. In addition, the glass substrate GL after the process is completed may be an ultra-thin glass substrate (UTG). As described above, the glass substrate GL (eg, an ultra-thin glass substrate) may be folded and bent, and may have excellent strength against external impact.

[0084] The glass substrate GL may include an upper surface US and a lower surface LS. The upper surface US and the lower surface LS of the glass substrate GL may be opposite to each other in the third direction DR3′, and a normal direction of each of the upper surface US and the lower surface LS may be substantially parallel to the third direction DR3′. The upper surface US of the glass substrate GL may be exposed to the outside of the display device DD.

[0085] The window WM may further include a printing layer BZ disposed on the lower surface LS of the glass substrate GL. The printing layer BZ may be formed on the lower surface LS of the glass substrate GL by a printing or deposition process, and the printing layer BZ may be directly disposed on the lower surface LS of the glass substrate GL.

[0086] The printed layer BZ may be disposed on at least a portion of the lower surface LS of the glass substrate GL and may define a frame area BZA. The printed layer BZ may correspond to the display panel DP (refer to Figure 3 ) surrounding area NAA (reference Figure 3 ).

[0087] The printed layer BZ may have a relatively low light transmittance compared to the glass substrate GL. As an example, the printed layer BZ may have a predetermined color. Accordingly, the printed layer BZ may selectively transmit or reflect only light of a specific color. According to an embodiment, the printed layer BZ may be a light blocking layer that absorbs light incident thereon. The light transmittance and color of the printed layer BZ may be provided in various ways according to the type of the display device DD and the shape of the display device DD.

[0088] The glass substrate GL may be an ultra-thin glass substrate having a thickness of about 100 μm or less. As an example, the thickness of the glass substrate GL may be equal to or greater than about 10 μm and equal to or less than about 100 μm. The glass substrate GL may have an ultra-thin thickness for a foldable or bendable flexible display device. As an example, the thickness of the glass substrate GL may be equal to or greater than about 20 μm and equal to or less than about 35 μm, and the thickness of the glass substrate GL may be about 31 μm.

[0089] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a target object to be separated (hereinafter, referred to as a separation object SM) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] refer to Figure 5 , the separation object SM may include a first component M1, a second component M2 and a third component M3. Figure 5 As shown in , the second member M2 may be disposed on the first member M1 , and the third member M3 may be disposed on the second member M2 .

[0091] According to one embodiment, the third member M3 may be Figure 3 The window WM, the second member M2 can be Figure 3 The bonding member AF, and the first member M1 may be Figure 3 According to an embodiment, the second member M2 may have a structure in which the bonding member AF and the lower member UM are stacked, and the first member M1 may be Figure 3 Display panel DP (reference Figure 3 ).

[0092] The first member M1 may include a base film BF and an optical member POL. That is, the lower member UM may include a base film BF and an optical member POL. The base film BF may be disposed on the optical member POL and may contact the second member M2. According to an embodiment, the optical member POL may be disposed on the base film BF, and the lower member UM may further include a functional layer.

[0093] The optical member POL may include a polarizing layer, a color filter layer, a dye-containing layer, a black matrix layer, a retardation layer, or an adhesive layer. Positions of the layers of the optical member POL may be interchanged with each other.

[0094] The second member M2 may be an adhesive member AF having an ultra-thin thickness. As an example, the thickness of the second member M2 may be equal to or greater than about 35 μm and equal to or less than about 200 μm. The second member M2 may have an ultra-thin thickness, and thus, the second member M2 may be used in a foldable or bendable flexible display device. As an example, the thickness of the second member M2 may be equal to or greater than about 35 μm and equal to or less than about 50 μm, and the thickness of the second member M2 may be about 50 μm.

[0095] The third member M3 may be an ultra-thin glass substrate having an ultra-thin thickness as described above. As an example, the thickness of the third member M3 may be equal to or greater than about 30 μm and equal to or less than about 35 μm, and the thickness of the third member M3 may be about 31 μm.

[0096] The thickness of the third member M3 may be equal to or less than the thickness of the second member M2. As an example, the thickness of the third member M3 may be about 31 μm, and the thickness of the second member M2 may be about 50 μm.

[0097] refer to Figure 5 , the upper surface M1-U of the first member M1 may be in contact with the lower surface M2-L of the second member M2, and the upper surface M2-U of the second member M2 may be in contact with the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to one embodiment, different layers may be provided on the upper surface M1-U of the first member M1 and the lower surface M2-L of the second member M2, and different layers may be provided on the upper surface M2-U of the second member M2 and the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3, however, the present disclosure should not be particularly limited thereto.

[0098] The upper surface M3-U of the third member M3 may define the upper surface US-SM of the separation object SM. The lower surface M1-L of the first member M1 may define the lower surface LS-SM of the separation object SM. The side surface of the second member M2 may define the side surface of the separation object SM. The side surface of the separation object SM may be separated from the chiseled edge portion FP (reference Figure 6) The portion in line contact may be the side surface of the second member M2. According to an embodiment, the side surface of the third member M3 and the side surface of the first member M1 may define the side surface of the separation object SM, but they should not be limited thereto or thereby.

[0099] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] refer to Figure 6 , the separation device may include a separation unit SU, a thickness measurement unit TMU and a moving unit MU.

[0101] The separation object SM may have a thickness in the first direction DR1, and the second member M2 and the third member M3 may be stacked in the first direction DR1. Figure 6 In the separation object SM shown in FIG. 1 , the first member M1 (refer to Figure 5 ), however, the separation object SM may include a first member M1 (reference Figure 5 ). The first component M1 (reference Figure 5 ) can be set on the workbench STG described later, and the second member M2 can be set on the first member M1 (refer to Figure 5 ). The workbench STG can be used to support the first member M1 (reference Figure 5 In one embodiment, the first component M1 (refer to Figure 5 ) optical component POL (reference Figure 5 ) can be set on the workbench STG.

[0102] The separation object SM may be disposed on the stage STG. The stage STG may be movable in the second direction DR2, however, according to an embodiment, the stage STG may be movable in a direction different from the second direction DR2, and it should not be particularly limited.

[0103] The separation unit SU may separate the separation object SM. The separation unit SU may include a first surface S1, a second surface S2, and a chiseled portion FP.

[0104] The first surface S1 of the separation unit SU may be inclined at a first angle θ1 relative to the lower surface M2-L of the separation object SM. The second surface S2 of the separation unit SU may be inclined at a second angle θ2 relative to the lower surface M2-L of the separation object SM. Figure 6 , the first surface S1 of the separation unit SU can be inclined at a first angle θ1 relative to the lower surface M2-L of the second component M2 of the separation object SM, and the second surface S2 of the separation unit SU can be inclined at a second angle θ2 relative to the lower surface M2-L of the second component M2 of the separation object SM.

[0105] The first angle θ1 may be different from the second angle θ2. As an example, the first angle θ1 may be smaller than the second angle θ2, and the second angle θ2 may be greater than about zero (0) degrees and less than about 90 degrees.

[0106] The chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU may be defined by a first surface S1 and a second surface S2 connected to the first surface S1. In other words, the chiseled edge portion FP may be defined by the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 in contact with the first surface S1. The chiseled edge portion FP may be in line contact with the side surface SS-SM of the separation object SM. As an example, the chiseled edge portion FP may be in line contact with the side surface M2-S of the second member M2.

[0107] The distance Td between the chiseled portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 may be maintained at a predetermined distance. The distance Td between the chiseled portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 may be varied by a height control unit CM described later.

[0108] The distance Td between the chiseled edge portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the thickness of the third member M3. The distance Td may be equal to or greater than the sum of the thickness of the third member M3 and its tolerance. The tolerance may vary according to the design and process of the product. However, the distance Td may be less than the sum of the thickness of the third member M3 and the thickness of the second member M2.

[0109] When the distance Td between the chiseled edge portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 is maintained as a predetermined distance and the thickness of the third member M3 is constant, the position where the chiseled edge portion FP is in line contact with the second member M2 can be maintained constant. As an example, for separation objects having the same design value, the line contact position of the chiseled edge portion FP with the second member M2 can be maintained constant. Therefore, the separation operation can be automated and the process time can be reduced. Accordingly, the capacity of the separation equipment can be increased, the product quality can be easily managed, and the separation process can be automated.

[0110] The separation unit SU may include metal or non-metal. As an example, the separation unit SU may include stainless steel (STS or SUS), however, according to an embodiment, the separation unit SU may include ceramic, polymer, duralumin, etc. According to an embodiment, the separation unit SU may be formed entirely of the same material, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, only the chisel edge portion FP may be formed of stainless steel (STS or SUS).

[0111] Figure 6The separation unit SU is shown to have a wedge shape, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the separation unit SU may have various shapes, such as a right triangle shape.

[0112] The thickness measurement unit TMU may measure the thickness of the separation object SM. The thickness measurement unit TMU may be in contact with the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM. The thickness measurement unit TMU may be in contact with the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM and may measure the thickness of the separation object SM.

[0113] The thickness measurement unit TMU may maintain a distance Td between the chiseled portion FP and the upper surface M3 -U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 . The thickness measurement unit TMU and the separation unit SU may be integrally combined with a support unit SPU described later.

[0114] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thickness measurement unit TMU may include a support member SPP and a roller RL.

[0115] The support member SPP may extend toward the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1. In one embodiment, the support member SPP may extend in the first direction DR1 above the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM. The support member SPP may have a rotation axis RX substantially parallel to the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM. The support member SPP may be combined with the support unit SPU.

[0116] The roller RL may be combined with the support member SPP. The roller RL may be combined with the support member SPP and may rotate relative to the rotation axis RX. The roller RL may contact the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM. The roller RL may contact the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM and may move along the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM.

[0117] Since the separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU are integrally combined with the support unit SPU and the roller RL contacts the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM to move along the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM, the distance Td between the chiseled edge portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 can be maintained constantly. Figure 6 The structure of the thickness measuring unit TMU in which the roller RL having a wheel shape is combined with the support member SPP is shown as a representative example, however, the structure of the thickness measuring unit TMU may be changed as long as the thickness of the separation object SM is measured and the distance Td between the chiseled edge portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 is constantly maintained. As an example, the thickness measuring unit TMU may have a rod structure or a tip structure, and should not be particularly limited.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the height difference between the thickness measuring unit TMU and the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU may be constant. The difference between the height of the lowermost portion of the thickness measuring unit TMU in the first direction DR1 and the height of the lowermost portion of the chiseled edge portion FP in the first direction DR1 may be constant. When the thickness measuring unit TMU moves in the first direction DR1, the chiseled edge portion FP may also move in the first direction DR1 to constantly maintain the height difference between the thickness measuring unit TMU and the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU. However, the height difference between the thickness measuring unit TMU and the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU may vary according to design specifications such as the thickness of the separation object SM, and should not be fixed to a specific value.

[0119] The supporting unit SPU may be combined with the separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU. The separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU may be detachably combined with the supporting unit SPU. The separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU may be supported by the supporting unit SPU and combined with the supporting unit SPU. The separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU may be combined with the supporting unit SPU, and the separation unit SU, the thickness measuring unit TMU and the supporting unit SPU may be moved together with each other by the moving unit MU described later, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to one embodiment, the separation unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU may be combined with the supporting unit SPU, but may be moved independently by the moving unit MU.

[0120] refer to Figure 6 , the separation unit SU may be combined with the lower portion of the support unit SPU, and the thickness measurement unit TMU may be combined with the side portion of the support unit SPU. However, the combination positions of the separation unit SU and the thickness measurement unit TMU relative to the support unit SPU may be changed and should not be particularly limited.

[0121] The moving unit MU may move the separation unit SU and the thickness measurement unit TMU. The moving unit MU may move the separation unit SU and the thickness measurement unit TMU in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1 or in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the separation unit SU and the thickness measurement unit TMU may be independently moved by the moving unit MU, however, it should not be particularly limited.

[0122] According to an embodiment, the moving unit MU may be combined with the supporting unit SPU and may move the supporting unit SPU. Accordingly, the separating unit SU and the thickness measuring unit TMU combined with the supporting unit SPU may move together with each other.

[0123] refer to Figure 6 , the mobile unit MU may be combined with the side portion of the support unit SPU. However, the combining position of the mobile unit MU relative to the support unit SPU may be changed and should not be particularly limited.

[0124] According to an embodiment, the moving unit MU may include a cylinder, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the moving unit MU may include a motor.

[0125] The height control unit CM may control the height difference between the thickness measurement unit TMU and the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU. In other words, the height control unit CM may control the difference between the height of the lowermost portion of the thickness measurement unit TMU in the first direction DR1 and the height of the lowermost portion of the chiseled edge portion FP in the first direction DR1. That is, the height control unit CM may control the distance between the chiseled edge portion FP and the thickness measurement unit TMU.

[0126] Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the height control unit CM may move the separation unit SU to control a distance Td between the chiseled portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 based on information about the thickness of the separation object SM measured by the thickness measurement unit TMU.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the height control unit CM may move the thickness measurement unit TMU in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1 to control the height difference between the thickness measurement unit TMU and the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU. Accordingly, the distance Td between the chiseled edge portion FP and the upper surface M3-U of the separation object SM in the first direction DR1 may be adjusted.

[0128] refer to Figure 6 , the mobile unit MU can be combined with the side portion of the support unit SPU, and the height control unit CM can be combined with the upper portion of the support unit SPU. However, the combination positions of the mobile unit MU and the height control unit CM relative to the support unit SPU can be changed and should not be particularly limited.

[0129] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] refer to Figure 7 , the separation unit SU may be in contact with the second member M2. In detail, the chiseled edge portion FP of the separation unit SU may be in line contact with the second member M2 at a specific position.

[0131] A portion of the second member M2 of the separation object SM may be in surface contact with the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 , and a side surface of the second member M2 may be in line contact with the chiseled portion FP.

[0132] refer to Figure 7 , the second member M2 can be divided into an upper part M2a and a lower part M2b by the separation unit SU. In detail, the second member M2 can be divided into an upper part M2a and a lower part M2b by the chiseling edge part FP. Since the second member M2 is in line contact with the chiseling edge part FP, the external force applied to the second member M2 to separate the upper part M2a from the lower part M2b can be reduced. Accordingly, the process conditions can be flexibly adjusted, so the process can be optimized. In addition, the capacity of the separation equipment can be increased, or the process cost can be reduced.

[0133] The upper portion M2a of the second member M2 may contact the second surface S2. The upper portion M2a of the second member M2 may be separated along the second surface S2. The lower portion M2b of the second member M2 may be spaced apart from the first surface S1. The chiseled portion FP may separate the upper portion M2a from the lower portion M2b of the second member M2.

[0134] The chiseled edge portion FP may be spaced apart from the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3. In addition, the chiseled edge portion FP may be spaced apart from the upper surface M2-U of the second member M2 and the lower surface M2-L of the second member M2. The chiseled edge portion FP may be spaced apart from the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3 without contacting the third member M3, and therefore, damage to the third member M3 may be prevented.

[0135] The first surface S1 may be spaced apart from the lower surface M2-L of the second member M2, and the second surface S2 may be spaced apart from the upper surface M2-U of the second member M2. The first surface S1 and the second surface S2 may surface-contact the second member M2 between the upper surface M2-U and the lower surface M2-L of the second member M2. Figure 7 A structure is shown in which the first surface S1 is not in surface contact with the second member M2 , however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the first surface S1 may be in surface contact with the second member M2 .

[0136] Although not shown in the figure, the first surface S1 may be connected to the first member M1 (refer to Fig. 8A ) on the upper surface M1-U (reference Fig. 8A ) is separated from the first surface S1 and the upper surface M1-U (reference Fig. 8A ) is spaced apart from and does not contact the first member M1, so damage to the first member M1, such as scratches, can be prevented.

[0137] refer to Figure 7The second surface S2 may be spaced apart from the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3. The second surface S2 may be spaced apart from the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3 and may not contact the third member M3, thus preventing the third member M3 from being damaged, such as being scratched.

[0138] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C is an enlarged view of a portion of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] refer to Fig. 8A , the separation object SM may include a first member M1, a second member M2, and a third member M3 sequentially stacked in a first direction DR1. Figure 8B , the separation object SM′ may include a first member M1′, a second member M2, and a third member M3 sequentially stacked in the first direction DR1. Figure 8C , the separation object SM″ may include a first member M1 ″, a second member M2 , and a third member M3 sequentially stacked in the first direction DR1 .

[0140] As reference Figure 7 As described, the first surface S1 of the separation unit SU can be spaced apart from the first members M1, M1′ and M1″, and the second surface S2 can be spaced apart from the lower surface M3-L of the third member M3. The separation unit SU can be prevented from contacting the first members M1, M1′ and M1″ and the third member M3, thereby preventing the first members M1, M1′ and M1″ and the third member M3 from being damaged.

[0141] refer to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C , there is a thickness difference between the first members M1, M1′ and M1″. Figure 8B The thickness of the first member M1′ may be less than Fig. 8A The thickness of the first member M1 is Figure 8C The thickness of the first member M1″ may be greater than Fig. 8A Since there is a thickness difference between the first members M1, M1′ and M1″, there is a thickness difference between the separation objects SM, SM′ and SM″.

[0142] As described above, the thickness measuring unit TMU and / or the separation unit SU can be moved by the mobile unit MU (refer to Figure 6 ) moves in the first direction DR1. Accordingly, even if the thickness of the separation object SM changes, the separation unit SU can make line contact with the side surface M2-S of the second member M2 at a specific position.

[0143] In other words, the difference between the height of the upper surface of the separation objects SM, SM′ and SM″ and the height of the chiseled edge portion FP can be adjusted by the moving unit MU (refer to Figure 6) and the thickness measurement unit TMU are constantly maintained in the first direction DR1. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C As shown in , even if the thicknesses of the separation objects SM, SM′ and SM″ are different from each other, the separation unit SU can make line contact with each of the separation objects SM, SM′ and SM″ at a specific position, namely, a specific position of the side surface M2-S of the second member M2.

[0144] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a separation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] refer to Fig. 9 The thickness measurement unit TMU may include a sensor SS. As an example, the sensor SS may include an ultrasonic sensor or a laser displacement sensor. The sensor SS of the thickness measurement unit TMU may measure the thickness of the separation object SM by a thickness measurement method using ultrasonic waves or lasers.

[0146] According to the present embodiment, the support member SPP (refer to Figure 6 ) and roller RL (reference Figure 6 ), however, they should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to an embodiment, the thickness measurement unit TMU may be provided with a support member SPP and a roller RL as well as an ultrasonic sensor or a laser displacement sensor.

[0147] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it should be understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but a person of ordinary skill in the art may make various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the present invention should be determined according to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A separation device, characterized in that: include: a separation unit including a chiseled edge portion in line contact with a side surface of a separation object having a thickness in a first direction; and a thickness measuring unit in contact with the upper surface of the separation object, wherein the distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the separation object in the first direction is a predetermined distance, and the separation unit further comprises: a first surface inclined at a first angle relative to a lower surface of the separation object; and A second surface is inclined at a second angle different from the first angle with respect to the lower surface of the separation object, wherein the chiseled portion is defined by the first surface and the second surface connected to the first surface.

2. The separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The first angle is smaller than the second angle, and the second angle is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

3. The separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The thickness measuring unit comprises: a supporting member extending in the first direction above the upper surface of the separation object and including a rotation axis parallel to the upper surface of the separation object; and a roller rotatably coupled to the support member, rotatable about the rotation axis, and in contact with the upper surface of the separation object, and / or The thickness measuring unit includes an ultrasonic sensor or a laser displacement sensor.

4. The separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: a supporting unit combined with the separation unit and the thickness measuring unit; a height control unit, the height control unit being used to adjust the height of the separation unit or the thickness measurement unit, thereby adjusting the distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the separation object in the first direction; and A moving unit is used to move the separation unit and the thickness measurement unit.

5. The separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that The separation object includes: a lower member including a surface defining said lower surface of said separation object; a glass substrate disposed on the lower member and including a surface defining the upper surface of the separation object; and an adhesive member disposed between the lower member and the glass substrate and including a surface defining the side surface of the separation object, wherein a point at which the chiseled edge portion makes line contact with the side surface of the separation object is spaced apart from the glass substrate and the lower member, wherein the first surface is spaced apart from the lower member, and the second surface is spaced apart from the glass substrate, wherein the thickness of the glass substrate is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the bonding member, and The separation device further comprises a workbench for supporting the lower member, wherein the lower member comprises: an optical component disposed on the workbench; and A base film is disposed on the optical member and in contact with the adhesive member.

6. A separation device, characterized in that: include: a separation unit including a chiseled edge portion, a first surface, and a second surface connected to the first surface, the chiseled edge portion being in line contact with a side surface of the second member of a separation object including a first member, a second member, and a third member stacked in a first direction; and a thickness measuring unit in contact with the upper surface of the third member, wherein the chiseled edge portion is defined by the first surface and the second surface, each of the first surface and the second surface is inclined relative to the lower surface of the second member, and a distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the third member in the first direction is greater than the thickness of the third member.

7. The separation device according to claim 6, characterized in that The first surface is inclined at a first angle relative to the lower surface of the second member, and the second surface is inclined at a second angle different from the first angle relative to the lower surface of the second member, and The first angle is smaller than the second angle, and the second angle is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

8. The separation device according to claim 6, characterized in that A height control unit is further included, the height control unit being used to adjust the height of the separation unit or the thickness measurement unit, thereby adjusting the distance between the chiseled edge portion and the upper surface of the third member in the first direction.

9. The separation device according to claim 6, characterized in that The thickness measuring unit comprises: a supporting member extending in the first direction above the upper surface of the third member and including a rotation axis parallel to the upper surface of the third member; and A roller is rotatably coupled to the support member, rotatable about the rotation axis, and in contact with the upper surface of the third member.

10. The separation device according to claim 6, characterized in that The thickness of the third member is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the second member, and the chiseled edge portion is spaced apart from the first member and the third member, and The first surface is spaced apart from the first member, and the second surface is spaced apart from the third member.

Images