Window

By introducing multiple groove patterns, sub-grooves and fillers into the window structure of the display device, the problem of damage to the display panel and window during the expansion process of the expansion of the expandable flexible display device is solved, and the bending reliability is achieved. stability.

CN222482891UActive Publication Date: 2025-02-14SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202420814832.6
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-04-27
Filing Date
2024-04-19
Publication Date
2025-02-14
Estimated Expiration
2034-04-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

During the expansion process of expandable flexible display devices, the display panel and windows may be damaged, resulting in reduced reliability.

Method used

A window structure is designed, including a window substrate, a plurality of groove patterns, sub-grooves and fillers. The window substrate has bendable bent portions, the groove pattern and sub-grooves are distributed in the window substrate, and the filler fills these grooves to enhance the stability of the structure.

Benefits of technology

Through this design, the reliability of windows during bending and expansion is improved, the risk of damage to the display panels and windows is reduced, and the stability and long life of the display equipment are ensured.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to a window. The window includes: a window substrate including a bending portion bendable about a virtual bending axis extending in a first direction; a plurality of groove patterns defined within the curved portion, extending in a first direction, and arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction; a sub-groove recessed into the window substrate from a pattern surface defining at least one of the plurality of groove patterns; and a filling member filling the plurality of groove patterns and the sub-grooves. The sub-groove includes a fixing region having a width that increases in a direction along which the sub-groove is recessed.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] Herein, the present disclosure relates to a reliable window and a display device including the window. Background Art

[0002] Display devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, and smart televisions provide images to users through display screens. The display device may include a display panel for generating images.

[0003] Various types of display devices are being developed. For example, flexible display devices that can be folded or rolled have been developed. Flexible display devices that can be deformed into various shapes are easy to carry and can improve user convenience.

[0004] In an expandable flexible display device among flexible display devices, at least a portion of the display panel can be accommodated in a housing or pulled out of the housing by using the folding characteristics of the display panel. Therefore, the user can expand the display screen. However, a limitation of the expandable flexible display device is that the display panel and the window may be damaged due to the expansion. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present disclosure provides a window having improved bending reliability and a display device including the window.

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a window, which includes a window substrate, a plurality of groove patterns, a sub-groove and a filling piece. The window substrate includes a curved portion bendable around a virtual bending axis extending in a first direction. A plurality of groove patterns are defined in the curved portion, extend in the first direction, and are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The sub-groove is recessed into the window substrate from a pattern surface defining at least one of the plurality of groove patterns. The filling piece fills the plurality of groove patterns and the sub-groove. The sub-groove includes a fixed area having a width that increases in the direction in which the sub-groove is recessed.

[0007] In an embodiment, the plurality of groove patterns may include a first groove pattern recessed from an upper surface of the window substrate and a second groove pattern recessed from a lower surface of the window substrate.

[0008] In an implementation, the sub-groove may include an upper sub-groove disposed in the first groove pattern and a lower sub-groove disposed in the second groove pattern.

[0009] In an implementation, the first groove pattern and the second groove pattern may not overlap each other in a thickness direction of the window substrate.

[0010] In an implementation, the sub-groove may be provided in plural, and each of the plurality of groove patterns may be provided with a plurality of sub-grooves.

[0011] In an embodiment, in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, the pattern surface may be divided into two sections by the sub-groove, and a maximum width of the sub-groove may be greater than a distance between the two sections of the pattern surface.

[0012] In an implementation, the sub-groove may include a first sub-groove adjacent to the pattern surface and a second sub-groove extending from the first sub-groove to an inner portion of the window substrate.

[0013] In an embodiment, in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, a width of the first sub-groove may be constant in a direction in which the sub-groove is recessed.

[0014] In an implementation, in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, a maximum width of the second sub-groove may be greater than a maximum width of the first sub-groove.

[0015] In an embodiment, the second sub-groove may include a fixing area.

[0016] In an implementation, a cross-section of the second sub-groove perpendicular to the first direction may have a circular shape.

[0017] The window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a window covering layer on the window substrate.

[0018] In an implementation, the window substrate may further include a first non-bend portion and a second non-bend portion spaced apart from each other in the second direction, with the bent portion between the first non-bend portion and the second non-bend portion.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device operates in a first mode and a second mode, and a display surface is larger in the second mode than in the first mode. The display device includes a display panel, a window substrate, a plurality of groove patterns, a sub-groove, and a filling piece. The display panel includes a display curved portion bendable around a virtual bending axis extending in a first direction. The window substrate is disposed on the display panel and includes a curved portion corresponding to the display curved portion. A plurality of groove patterns are defined in the curved portion, extend in the first direction, and are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The sub-groove is recessed into the window substrate from a pattern surface defining at least one of the plurality of groove patterns. The filling piece fills the plurality of groove patterns and the sub-groove. The sub-groove includes a fixed area having a width that increases in the direction in which the sub-groove is recessed.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the window includes: a window substrate, including a curved portion bendable around a virtual bending axis extending in a first direction; a plurality of groove patterns defined in the curved portion, extending in the first direction, and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction; sub-grooves recessed into the window substrate from a pattern surface defining at least one of the plurality of groove patterns; and a filling piece filling the plurality of groove patterns and the sub-grooves, wherein the sub-grooves have an anchor shape so that the filling piece is fixed to the sub-grooves.

[0021] In an embodiment, the sub groove may include a fixing area having a width that increases in a direction in which the sub groove is recessed.

[0022] In an embodiment, the sub-groove may include: a first sub-groove adjacent to the pattern surface; and a second sub-groove extending from the first sub-groove to the interior of the window substrate, wherein in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, a maximum width of the second sub-groove may be greater than a maximum width of the first sub-groove.

[0023] In an embodiment, the second sub-groove may include a fixing area.

[0024] In an implementation, a cross-section of the second sub-groove perpendicular to the first direction may have a circular shape.

[0025] In an embodiment, in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, the pattern surface may be divided into two sections by the sub-groove, and a maximum width of the sub-groove may be greater than a distance between the two sections of the pattern surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the accompanying drawings:

[0027] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 1B is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2A It is along Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure taken along line II';

[0030] Figure 2B It is along Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure taken along line II-II';

[0031] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 is a plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure taken along line III-III';

[0035] Fig. 7A yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of the area AA';

[0036] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A An enlarged view of region BB';

[0037] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of a window according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Fig. 9A is a view showing a sub-groove according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Fig. 9B is a view showing a sub-groove according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Fig. 10A is a perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Fig. 10B is a perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Fig. 10C is a perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0043] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11G are cross-sectional views illustrating each of operations in a method for manufacturing a window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Since the present disclosure can have various modifications and be implemented in different forms, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and described in detail in the specification. However, this is not intended to limit the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents and substitutions within the scope of the concept and technology of the present disclosure.

[0045] In this specification, it will be understood that when an element (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being "on," "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, it can be directly set on, directly connected to or directly coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be set between them.

[0046] The same reference numerals represent the same elements throughout. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness, ratio and size of elements are exaggerated in order to effectively describe the technical contents.

[0047] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "one", "a", "the" and "at least one" do not represent a limitation of quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, "an element" has the same meaning as "at least one element", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "At least one" should not be interpreted as limiting "one" or "a kind". "Or" means "and / or". The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may also be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Singular forms also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] In addition, terms such as "below", "lower", "above", and "upper" may be used to describe the relationship of components shown in the drawings. These terms are used as spatial relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. In addition, 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 as an idealized or overly formal meaning unless explicitly defined as such in this article.

[0051] It will be understood that when used herein, the terms “include” or “comprising” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1A and Figure 1B is a perspective view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1A is a perspective view of the display device DD operating in a first mode, and Figure 1B is a perspective view of the display device DD operating in the second mode.

[0054] The display device DD may include a device that is activated in response to an electrical signal and displays an image. The display device DD may include various embodiments. For example, the display device DD may include large devices such as televisions and outdoor advertising boards, and small and medium-sized devices such as smart phones, mobile phones, tablet computers, navigation units, and game consoles. In an embodiment, the display device DD is shown as a smart phone that can slide.

[0055] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the display device DD may include a display module DM and a case CS accommodating the display module DM. At least a portion of the display module DM may be exposed to the outside through a display opening C-OP defined in an upper portion of the case CS.

[0056] The housing CS may include a first housing CS1 and a second housing CS2. The first housing CS1 and the second housing CS2 may be coupled to each other to accommodate the display module DM. The first housing CS1 may be coupled to the second housing CS2 so as to move in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The first housing CS1 is coupled to the second housing CS2 and may move closer to or away from the second housing CS2.

[0057] The display surface DS of the display module DM exposed through the display opening C-OP may be parallel to both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 crossing the first direction DR1. The display module DM may display an image in a third direction DR3 on the display surface DS parallel to the first and second directions DR1 and DR2.

[0058] As used herein, the third direction DR3 may be defined as a direction substantially perpendicularly intersecting a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The front surface (or upper surface) and the rear surface (or lower surface) of each of the members constituting the display device DD 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. The distance between the front surface and the rear surface defined in the third direction DR3 may correspond to the thickness of the member (or unit).

[0059] As used herein, the expression "in a plan view" may be defined as a state when viewed in the third direction DR3. As used herein, the expression "in a cross-sectional view" may be defined as a state when viewed in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. Here, the directions indicated as the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 may have relative concepts and thus may be changed to other directions.

[0060] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The area of ​​the display surface DS of the display module DM exposed through the display opening C-OP of the case CS is adjusted according to the movement of the first case CS1. When the first case CS1 moves, the opening area of ​​the display opening C-OP may increase in the first direction DR1.

[0061] The display module DM may include a flexible display module and may be supported by a support layer disposed below the display module DM. When the first housing CS1 moves in the first direction DR1, the support layer connected to the first housing CS1 may also move in the first direction DR1. Therefore, the display module DM disposed on the support layer may also move in the first direction DR1 according to the movement of the first housing CS1. When one end of the display module DM moves in the first direction DR1 together with the first housing CS1, a portion of the display module DM accommodated in the second housing CS2 in the first mode may be exposed to the outside. Therefore, the display surface DS of the display module DM exposed through the display opening C-OP may be enlarged.

[0062] Figure 1A The display device DD is shown in a first mode among the operating states of the display device DD, in which the first mode, the first housing CS1 is positioned closest to the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. In the first mode, a portion extending from the area of ​​the display module DM exposed by the display opening C-OP can be folded with a certain curvature and accommodated in the second housing CS2. The first mode in which the display surface DS of the display module DM is set to a basic size can be defined as a basic mode.

[0063] Figure 1B The display device DD is shown in a second mode among the operating states of the display device DD, in which the first housing CS1 is positioned farthest from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1. In the display device DD in the second mode, the area of ​​the display surface DS of the display module DM exposed through the display opening C-OP can be expanded compared to the first mode. That is, the second mode in which the display surface DS is expanded from the basic mode can be defined as the extended mode.

[0064] The first mode and the second mode of the display device DD can be determined by the sliding movement of the housing CS and the display module DM. The user can expand the display surface DS of the display device DD by operating the display device DD from the first mode to the second mode, and can view images through the expanded display surface DS. In addition, the user can reduce the display surface DS of the display device DD by operating the display device DD from the second mode to the first mode, and can view images through the reduced display surface DS. That is, the user can differently adjust the area of ​​the display surface DS of the display device DD exposed from the housing CS by selecting one of the first mode and the second mode of the display device DD.

[0065] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2A It is along Figure 1A 1 is a cross-sectional view of the display device DD according to the embodiment taken along line II′. Figure 2B It is along Figure 1B FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line II-II′. Figure 2A corresponds to a cross section of the display device DD in the first mode, and Figure 2B Corresponds to the cross section of the display device DD in the second mode.

[0066] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The display device DD may include a housing CS, a display module DM accommodated in the housing CS, a rotating unit RU, and a support module. The support module may be disposed below the display module DM to support the display module DM. The support module may include a cover member CV, a first support layer PL1, a second support layer PL2, and a support rod SB.

[0067] The display module DM may include a first area AA1 and a second area AA2 extending from the first area AA1 in a first direction DR1. The first area AA1 may be supported by the cover member CV, the first supporting layer PL1 and the supporting rods SB, and the second area AA2 may be supported by the second supporting layer PL2.

[0068] refer to Figure 2AIn the first mode, the display surface DS of the display module DM corresponding to the second area AA2 may be exposed to the outside. In the first mode, the second area AA2 may be arranged to be parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and the second area AA2 may be defined as a plane area or a non-bending area. A portion of the first area AA1 may be folded so that one end thereof spaced apart from the second area AA2 overlaps with the second area AA2 in the third direction DR3. In detail, a portion of the first area AA1 may be folded around a rotation axis (also referred to as a virtual bending axis) FX parallel to the second direction DR2. The first area AA1 may be defined as a folding area or a bending area. In the first mode, at least a portion of the first area AA1 may not be exposed to the outside. As Figure 2A As shown in , in the first mode, only a portion of the first area AA1 adjacent to the second area AA2 may be exposed to the outside. As used herein, "an area / portion corresponds to another area / portion" means that they overlap each other, but are not limited to having the same area.

[0069] The rotating unit RU may be accommodated in the second housing CS2. The rotating unit RU may rotate around a rotation axis FX parallel to one direction. Figure 2A and Figure 2B A rotating unit RU is shown rotatable about a rotation axis FX parallel to the second direction DR2. The rotating unit RU is coupled to the second housing CS2 and can rotate about the rotation axis FX according to a sliding movement of the first housing CS1 away from or toward the second housing CS2.

[0070] Figure 2A The first housing CS1 can be moved away from the second housing CS2 in the first direction DR1, and can then be placed Figure 2B When the display device DD is operated from the first mode to the second mode, one end of the second area AA2 of the display module DM spaced apart from the first area AA1 is coupled and fixed to the first housing CS1 and can move with the movement of the first housing CS1. Here, one end of the first area AA1 of the display module DM spaced apart from the second area AA2 moves in a direction opposite to the direction in which one end of the second area AA2 coupled to the first housing CS1 moves.

[0071] A portion of the first area AA1 of the display module DM and a portion of the covering member CV, the first supporting layer PL1, and the supporting rod SB supporting the first area AA1 of the display module DM may be arranged on the curved surface of the rotating unit RU and folded into a certain curvature. When operating from the first mode to the second mode, as the display module DM moves, the first area AA1 of the display module DM, the covering member CV, the first supporting layer PL1, and the supporting rod SB may move along the curved surface of the rotating unit RU. According to an embodiment, a portion of the display surface DS corresponding to the first area AA1 in the first mode may be exposed to the outside. Then, when operating from the first mode to the second mode, the area of ​​the first area AA1 exposed to the outside through the display opening C-OP may increase. In addition, in the first mode, the display surface DS corresponding to the first area AA1 may not be exposed to the outside.

[0072] The support module for supporting the first area AA1 folded along the curved surface of the rotating unit RU in the first mode and the second mode and the support module for supporting the second area AA2 maintained in a flat state in the first mode and the second mode may have different configurations because the desired mechanical properties are different from each other. In an embodiment, for example, the support module for supporting the first area AA1 of the display module DM may include a cover member CV, a first support layer PL1, and a support rod SB. In addition, the support module for supporting the second area AA2 may include a second support layer PL2.

[0073] Since the support module has different configurations according to the area of ​​the display module DM, there may be a gap between the components of the support module arranged side by side in a plan view. In an embodiment, for example, the cover member CV and the second support layer PL2, which are arranged side by side as separate components in a plan view, may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. That is, there may be a gap between the cover member CV and the second support layer PL2.

[0074] The cover member CV, the first supporting layer PL1 , the second supporting layer PL2 , and the supporting bar SB are described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0075] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The description given above can be applied in the same manner to Figure 3 The components shown in FIG. The cover member CV, the first supporting layer PL1, the second supporting layer PL2 and the supporting rod SB are mainly referred to as Figure 3 Give a description.

[0076] refer to Figure 3The display module DM may include a display panel DP and a window WP disposed on the display panel DP. The window WP may cover the entire upper surface of the display panel DP. The window WP may protect the display panel DP from external impact and scratches.

[0077] The window WP may include an optically transparent insulating material. In an embodiment, for example, the window WP may include glass, sapphire, or a polymer. The window WP may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The window WP may also include a functional layer such as an anti-fingerprint layer, a phase control layer, and a hard coating layer disposed on an optically transparent substrate. The window WP is described in detail below.

[0078] In addition, the configuration of the display module DM is not limited thereto and may further include a functional layer disposed between the window WP and the display panel DP. In an embodiment, for example, the display module DM may further include at least one of a protective layer, an anti-reflection layer, and an input sensing layer disposed on the display panel DP.

[0079] The display panel DP may include a first area AA1 and a second area AA2. These areas may correspond to the first area AA1 and the second area AA2 of the display module DM described above, and therefore, the description given above may be applied thereto in the same manner. The display panel DP may include a display bending portion bent around a rotation axis FX extending in a second direction DR2. Figure 3 , for convenience of description, the first area AA1 and the second area AA2 are shown above the upper surface of the window WP.

[0080] The display panel DP according to the embodiment may include a light-emitting display panel, but the embodiment is not particularly limited thereto. In the embodiment, for example, the display panel DP may include an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel may include an inorganic light-emitting material such as quantum dots and quantum rods. In addition, the light-emitting layer of the display panel DP may include ultra-small light-emitting elements such as micro LEDs and / or nano LEDs. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The display panel DP according to the embodiment is described in detail.

[0081] The cover member CV may be disposed on the bottom surface of the display panel DP. In a plan view, the cover member CV may overlap the first area AA1 of the display panel DP. The cover member CV may be parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 in an unfolded state. The cover member CV may protect the bottom surface of the display panel DP corresponding to the first area AA1, and may not overlap the second area AA2 in a plan view.

[0082] The covering member CV may include a flexible material. In an embodiment, for example, the covering member CV may include a polymer material. The covering member CV supports the first area AA1 of the display panel DP that is folded with a certain curvature, thereby alleviating stress caused by the folding. In addition, the covering member CV may prevent impurities from entering the display panel DP through the opening OP defined in the first supporting layer PL1 disposed below the covering member CV. The second area AA2 that is not folded even during operation in the first mode and the second mode does not need to be relieved of stress due to folding, and no opening is defined in the second supporting layer PL2 disposed below the display panel DP. Therefore, the covering member CV may not be disposed in the second area AA2. Therefore, the stacking structure of the display device DD corresponding to the second area AA2 may be simplified.

[0083] The second supporting layer PL2 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the display panel DP. In a plan view, the second supporting layer PL2 may overlap the second area AA2 of the display panel DP. The second supporting layer PL2 may have a plate shape parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The second supporting layer PL2 may protect the bottom surface of the display panel DP corresponding to the second area AA2, and may not overlap the first area AA1 in a plan view.

[0084] The second supporting layer PL2 may include a material having a certain rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the second supporting layer PL2 may include stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. However, the material of the second supporting layer PL2 is not limited to the above examples. The second supporting layer PL2 may support the bottom surface of the display panel DP so that the second area AA2 of the display panel DP maintains a flat state in the first mode and the second mode. In addition, the second supporting layer PL2 may improve the impact resistance of the display panel DP.

[0085] The cover member CV may include a material different from that of the second supporting layer PL2. The modulus of the second supporting layer PL2 may be higher than that of the cover member CV. The cover member CV is not limited to one embodiment as long as it can support the first area AA1 of the display panel DP to relieve stress caused by folding. In addition, the second supporting layer PL2 is not limited to one embodiment as long as it can support the second area AA2 of the display panel DP to make it flat.

[0086] The cover member CV and the second supporting layer PL2 may be arranged parallel to each other on the bottom surface of the display panel DP. In an embodiment, for example, one end of the cover member CV may face one end of the second supporting layer PL2 in the first direction DR1. The cover member CV may be spaced apart from the second supporting layer PL2 in the first direction DR1.

[0087] The first supporting layer PL1 may be disposed under the cover member CV. In a plan view, the first supporting layer PL1 may overlap the first area AA1 of the display panel DP. The first supporting layer PL1 may be parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 in an unfolded state. In a plan view, the first supporting layer PL1 may not overlap the second area AA2. In a plan view, the first supporting layer PL1 may be spaced apart from the second supporting layer PL2.

[0088] The first supporting layer PL1 may include a material having a certain rigidity. Therefore, the first supporting layer PL1 may improve the impact resistance of the display panel DP corresponding to the first area AA1. In an embodiment, for example, the first supporting layer PL1 may include stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. In an embodiment, the first supporting layer PL1 may include the same material as the second supporting layer PL2. However, the material of the first supporting layer PL1 is not limited to the above examples.

[0089] A plurality of openings OP passing through the first supporting layer PL1 may be defined in the first supporting layer PL1. The first supporting layer PL1 may be relatively easily folded through the openings OP. That is, the first supporting layer PL1 has rigidity and may be easily folded with a certain curvature through the openings OP.

[0090] Each of the openings OP may extend in the second direction DR2. That is, the width of the openings OP in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the width in the first direction DR1. The openings OP may be arranged in a grid shape. Therefore, a grid pattern may be defined in the first support layer PL1 by the openings OP.

[0091] The opening OP may include a first opening OP1 and a second opening OP2, which are arranged to be offset from each other in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 may be arranged in a row in the second direction DR2. However, this is only described as an example. All the plurality of openings OP according to the embodiment may be arranged side by side in the second direction DR2, and are not limited to any one embodiment.

[0092] Figure 3 The openings OP are shown to be arranged in a plurality of groups arranged in the second direction DR2. Here, a group includes a first opening OP1 arranged in a row and a second opening OP2 located on the opposite side of the first opening OP1. However, this is only described as an example. The arrangement and gap of the openings OP can be designed in various ways according to the design of the display device DD, and are not limited to any one embodiment.

[0093] The support bars SB may be disposed under the first support layer PL1. Each of the support bars SB may extend in the second direction DR2. The support bars SB may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The support bars SB are provided as segmented bodies so that the first area AA1 of the display panel DP may be easily rotated along the rotation unit RU (reference Figure 2A ) of the curved surface folding.

[0094] In a plan view, the support bars SB may not overlap with the opening OP of the first supporting layer PL1. Therefore, the support bars SB may not deteriorate the folding characteristics of the first supporting layer PL1. However, the embodiment is not necessarily limited thereto, and in another embodiment, in a plan view, some of the support bars SB may overlap with the opening OP.

[0095] The support bar SB may include a metal having a certain rigidity. In an embodiment, for example, the support bar SB may include a metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or Invar, or carbon fiber. However, the material of the support bar SB is not limited to the above examples, as long as the support bar SB is configured to be able to support the segmented body of the first area AA1 of the display panel DP.

[0096] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 is a plan view of a display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] refer to Figure 4 The display panel DP may include a base substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OL, and a packaging layer TFL. The circuit element layer DP-CL, the display element layer DP-OL, and the packaging layer TFL may be sequentially stacked on the base substrate SUB in the third direction DR3.

[0098] The base substrate SUB may provide a base surface on which elements and lines of the display panel DP are arranged in a plane view parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The base substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA may include an area in which pixels are arranged to display an image. The non-display area NDA may include an area adjacent to the display area DA and not displaying an image. The non-display area NDA may include an area in which lines connected to the pixels and transmitting drive signals are arranged.

[0099] The base substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the base substrate SUB may include at least one synthetic resin layer. The synthetic resin layer may include at least one of an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, a polyisoprene-based resin, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, a perylene-based resin, and a polyimide-based resin. However, the material of the base substrate SUB is not limited to the above examples.

[0100] The circuit element layer DP-CL may be disposed on the base substrate SUB. The circuit element layer DP-CL may include at least one insulating layer, a driving element, a signal line, and a signal pad. The circuit element layer DP-CL may include a conductive pattern and a semiconductor pattern constituting the driving element, the signal line, and the signal pad.

[0101] The display element layer DP-OL may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL. The display element layer DP-OL may include a light emitting element overlapping the display area DA in a plan view. The light emitting element of the display element layer DP-OL is electrically connected to the driving element of the circuit element layer DP-CL, and may generate light in the display area DA in response to a signal provided from the driving element.

[0102] The encapsulation layer TFL may be disposed on the display element layer DP-OL and seal the light emitting element. The encapsulation layer TFL may include a plurality of thin films. The thin films of the encapsulation layer TFL may be provided to improve the optical efficiency of the light emitting element or to protect the light emitting element. In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFL may include at least one inorganic film and at least one organic film. The inorganic film of the encapsulation layer TFL may protect the light emitting element from moisture / oxygen. The organic film of the encapsulation layer TFL may protect the light emitting element from impurities such as dust particles.

[0103] refer to Figure 5 The display panel DP may include a base substrate SUB, a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL and CNL electrically connected to the pixels PX, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV and an emission driver EDV.

[0104] Each of the pixels PX may include a light emitting element, a plurality of transistors (eg, a switching transistor, a driving transistor, etc.) connected to the light emitting element, and a pixel driving circuit including at least one capacitor.

[0105] The pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DA. Each of the pixels PX may emit light in response to an electrical signal applied to the pixel PX. However, some of the pixels PX may include a thin film transistor arranged in the non-display area NDA, and are not limited to any one embodiment.

[0106] Each of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. At least one of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV may be disposed in the display area DA, and therefore, in another embodiment, the area of ​​the non-display area NDA may be reduced.

[0107] The data driver DDV may be provided in the form of an integrated circuit chip that is defined as a driving chip and is mounted in the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the data driver DDV may be mounted on a separate flexible circuit board connected to the display panel DP and may be electrically connected to the display panel DP.

[0108] The signal lines SL1 to SLm, DL1 to DLn, EL1 to ELm, CSL1, CSL2, PL, and CNL may include scan lines SL1 to SLm, data lines DL1 to DLn, emission lines EL1 to ELm, first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2, power lines PL, and connection lines CNL. Here, m and n represent natural numbers greater than 1.

[0109] The data lines DL1 to DLn may be insulated from the scan lines SL1 to SLm and the emission lines EL1 to ELm, and may cross the scan lines SL1 to SLm and the emission lines EL1 to ELm. In an embodiment, for example, the scan lines SL1 to SLm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the data driver DDV. The emission lines EL1 to ELm may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0110] The power line PL may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be located in the non-display area NDA. In an embodiment, the power line PL may be located between the display area DA and the emission driver EDV. However, the arrangement position of the power line PL is not limited thereto.

[0111] The connection lines CNL may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and connected to the power line PL and the pixel PX. Each of the connection lines CNL may be located on a different layer from the power line PL and electrically connected to each other through a contact hole. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the connection lines CNL and the power line PL may be integrated with each other on the same layer. A power voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the power line PL and the connection lines CNL connected to each other.

[0112] The first control line CSL1 may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The second control line CSL2 may be connected to the emission driver EDV.

[0113] The pad PD may be arranged adjacent to the lower end of the non-display area NDA. The pad PD may be arranged closer to the lower end of the display panel DP than the data driver DDV. The pads PD may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The pad PD may include a portion connected to a circuit board providing signals for controlling the operation of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the emission driver EDV of the display panel DP.

[0114] Each of the pads PD may be connected to a corresponding signal line among the signal lines. The power line PL and the first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2 may be connected to the pads PD. The data lines DL1 to DLn may be electrically connected to the corresponding pads PD through the data driver DDV.

[0115] The scan driver SDV may generate a scan signal in response to a scan control signal. The scan signal may be applied to the pixel PX through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The data driver DDV may generate a data voltage corresponding to the image signal in response to the data control signal. The data voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The emission driver EDV may generate an emission signal in response to an emission control signal. The emission signal may be applied to the pixel PX through the emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0116] The pixel PX may receive a data voltage in response to a scan signal. The pixel PX may emit light having a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to an emission signal, thereby displaying an image. The emission time of the pixel PX may be controlled by the emission signal. Therefore, the display panel DP may output an image through the display area DA using the pixel PX.

[0117] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 Shown along Figure 3 The description given above can be applied in the same way to Figure 6Each of the components shown in , and repeated descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0118] refer to Figure 6 The cover member CV, the first supporting layer PL1 and the supporting rod SB are sequentially disposed on the bottom surface of the display panel DP corresponding to the first area AA1 and can support the display panel DP. The second supporting layer PL2 is disposed on the bottom surface of the display panel DP corresponding to the second area AA2 and can support the display panel DP.

[0119] In an embodiment, the second support layer PL2 may be coupled to the bottom surface of the display panel DP through a planar adhesive layer AL. The planar adhesive layer AL may include a transparent adhesive such as an optically clear adhesive ("OCA") film, an optically clear resin ("OCR"), or a pressure sensitive adhesive ("PSA") film. However, the type of adhesive included in the planar adhesive layer AL is not limited thereto. Figure 6 Unlike the embodiment shown in , the planar adhesive layer AL can be omitted.

[0120] here, Figure 6 It is shown that the thickness of the second supporting layer PL2 is less than the thickness of the covering member CV. However, this is only an example, and in another embodiment, the thickness of the second supporting layer PL2 may be greater than the thickness of the covering member CV. In addition, as an example, Figure 6 The second support layer PL2 is shown to have a single-layer structure. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the second support layer PL2 may include a plurality of different components. In an embodiment, for example, the second support layer PL2 may include a plurality of different components selected from a metal plate, a heat dissipation layer, an electromagnetic shielding layer, a cushion layer, and a digitizer.

[0121] In a plan view, the cover member CV may overlap the first area AA1 and may be coupled to the bottom surface of the display panel DP. The cover member CV may be spaced apart from the second supporting layer PL2 in the first direction DR1. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the cover member CV and the second supporting layer PL2 may contact each other. That is, no gap is defined between the cover member CV and the second supporting layer PL2, and one side surface of the cover member CV and one side surface of the second supporting layer PL2 may contact each other.

[0122] The cover member CV includes a cover layer CVL. The cover member CV may further include adhesive layers PSA1 and PSA2 disposed on at least one surface of the cover layer CVL.

[0123] The cover layer CVL may be a layer including the above-mentioned polymer material having flexibility. The cover layer CVL includes a material having elasticity, and may support the first area AA1 of the display panel DP folded with a certain curvature, thereby alleviating stress caused by folding. In addition, the cover layer CVL may prevent impurities from entering the display panel DP through the opening OP defined in the first supporting layer PL1 provided below the cover layer CVL. The cover layer CVL may include a material having a low modulus, and therefore, may reduce stress applied when the display device DD operates in the first mode and the second mode.

[0124] The cover layer CVL includes an upper surface CVL-U adjacent to the display panel DP and a lower surface CVL-L adjacent to the first support layer PL1, and adhesive layers PSA1 and PSA2 may be provided on at least one of the upper surface CVL-U and the lower surface CVL-L. In the display device DD according to the embodiment, the cover member CV may include a first adhesive layer PSA1 provided on the upper surface CVL-U of the cover layer CVL and a second adhesive layer PSA2 provided on the lower surface CVL-L of the cover layer CVL. The upper surface CVL-U of the cover layer CVL may be in contact with the first adhesive layer PSA1, and the lower surface CVL-L of the cover layer CVL may be in contact with the second adhesive layer PSA2. The display panel DP may be bonded to the cover layer CVL through the first adhesive layer PSA1, and the first support layer PL1 may be bonded to the cover layer CVL through the second adhesive layer PSA2. In addition, the second adhesive layer PSA2 may be omitted, and in this case, the cover layer CVL and the first support layer PL1 may be in direct contact with each other.

[0125] When viewed in a second direction DR2 parallel to the direction in which the support bars SB extend, the cross section of the support bars SB may have a rectangular shape. That is, the upper surface of each of the support bars SB facing the display panel DP may have an area substantially the same as the bottom surface corresponding thereto. However, this is only described as an example, and each of the support bars SB may include an upper surface having an area smaller than that of the bottom surface. In an embodiment, for example, the cross section of each of the support bars SB may have various shapes, such as an inverted triangle or an inverted trapezoid.

[0126] The window WP may be disposed on the display panel DP. The window WP may include a window substrate WB in which a plurality of groove patterns GVP are defined, fillers FL filling the plurality of groove patterns GVP, respectively, and a window cover layer CWL disposed on the window substrate WB.

[0127] The window substrate WB may include an optically transparent material. In an embodiment, for example, the window substrate WB may include a glass substrate, and the glass substrate may be a chemically strengthened tempered glass substrate. The window substrate WB may include a glass substrate and provide excellent aesthetics. In addition, dents or scratches caused by sharp materials can be prevented.

[0128] The window substrate WB may include an upper surface WB-U and a lower surface WB-B that are opposite to each other. In an embodiment, the upper surface WB-U and the lower surface WB-B may face each other in the third direction DR3. The window substrate WB may have a certain thickness in the third direction DR3. The thickness of the window substrate WB may affect the impact resistance of the window substrate WB. When the thickness of the window substrate WB is too small, the window substrate WB may be broken or damaged due to an impact concentrated on a local area (e.g., the impact of a pen falling). When the thickness of the window substrate WB is too large, the flexibility may deteriorate or the window substrate WB may be damaged during folding. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness of the window substrate WB may be about 100 microns (μm) to about 1000 μm. The thickness of the window substrate WB may be about 200 μm. However, the thickness of the window substrate WB is not necessarily limited to the above numerical examples. When the thickness of the window substrate WB satisfies the above numerical range, the impact resistance of the window substrate WB is ensured. Therefore, the display panel DP disposed below the window substrate WB can be protected from external impact.

[0129] The window substrate WB may include a bent portion BP corresponding to the first area AA1 and a non-bent portion NBP corresponding to the second area AA2. Figure 2A , the bent portion BP may be a portion folded around a rotation axis FX extending in the second direction DR2. Specifically, a portion of the bent portion BP is bent in the first mode so that one end thereof spaced apart from the non-bend portion NBP overlaps the non-bend portion NBP in the third direction DR3. In the first mode, at least a portion of the bent portion BP may not be exposed to the outside. The non-bend portion NBP is parallel to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and may be provided as a planar portion.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of groove patterns GVP may be defined in the bent portion BP. The plurality of groove patterns GVP may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The plurality of groove patterns GVP may not overlap each other in the third direction DR3 as a thickness direction.

[0131] As an example, Figure 6 There are shown 11 groove patterns GVP which are recessed in the third direction DR3 or in a direction opposite to the third direction DR3 in the bent portion BP. However, the number of the groove patterns GVP is not limited to the number shown.

[0132] The non-bending portion NBP may be adjacent to the bending portion BP.A plurality of groove patterns GVP may not be defined in the non-bending portion NBP.

[0133] The bending portion BP may include a plurality of groove patterns GVP, and thus, the folding characteristics may be improved compared to the non-bending portion NBP. Specifically, the bending portion BP includes a plurality of groove patterns GVP, and thus, the thickness of a portion of the bending portion BP may be relatively smaller than the thickness of the non-bending portion NBP to improve flexibility. Therefore, when the display device DD is folded, the stress applied to the window substrate WB may be reduced, and damage caused by the folding of the window substrate WB may be prevented.

[0134] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a filler FL may fill each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP. Specifically, the filler FL may be disposed to contact the bottom surface and the side surface of the plurality of groove patterns GVP and completely fill the interior of the plurality of groove patterns GVP. The shape of the filler FL may correspond to the shape of each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP. The filler FL may absorb external impact by filling the internal space provided by the plurality of groove patterns GVP, and may also supplement the impact resistance of the window WP within the first area AA1.

[0135] The filler FL may include an elastic material. The filler FL may include an organic material. In an embodiment, for example, the filler FL may include a resin having elasticity. The filler FL may prevent the window WP from being deformed due to compressive stress or tensile stress applied during folding while maintaining improved folding characteristics of the window WP.

[0136] The filler FL may include an optically transparent material. Since the filler FL includes a transparent material, it is possible to prevent the plurality of groove patterns GVP from being formed in the display module DM (see FIG. Figure 1A ) of the display surface DS overlapping with the first area AA1 of the window WP in plan view (see Figure 1A )’s exterior is identified.

[0137] The window cover layer CWL may be disposed on the window substrate WB. An upper surface of the window cover layer CWL may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Basically, an upper surface of the window cover layer CWL may define Figure 1A The display surface DS shown in FIG.

[0138] The window cover layer CWL may have an optically transparent property. In an embodiment, for example, the window cover layer CWL may include materials such as transparent glass, polymethyl methacrylate ("PMMA"), and polycarbonate (PC). However, the material of the window cover layer CWL is not limited to the above materials.

[0139] The window cover layer CWL may include a chemically strengthened glass substrate. In an embodiment, for example, the window cover layer CWL may include ultra-thin glass ("UTG"). The window cover layer CWL is chemically strengthened and thus may have excellent mechanical strength while having high flexibility. Since the window cover layer CWL has excellent mechanical strength, the window substrate WB or the display panel DP may be protected from external impacts.

[0140] Fig. 7A yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of area AA'. Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A Magnified view of region BB'.

[0141] refer to Fig. 7A , the plurality of groove patterns GVP may include a first groove pattern GVP1 (or an upper groove pattern) and a second groove pattern GVP2 (or a lower groove pattern). Each of the first groove patterns GVP1 is recessed from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB toward the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB. Each of the second groove patterns GVP2 is recessed from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB toward the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB.

[0142] A plurality of groove patterns GVP may be defined by a pattern surface PTF connected to an upper surface WB-U of a window substrate WB or a lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB. Specifically, a first groove pattern GVP1 may be defined by a first pattern surface PTF1 connected to an upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB, and a second groove pattern GVP2 may be defined by a second pattern surface PTF2 connected to a lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB. The upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB may be divided into two sections by the first groove pattern GVP1. The lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB may be divided into two sections by the second groove pattern GVP2.

[0143] As an example, Fig. 7AIt is shown that the first pattern surface PTF1 includes two first side surfaces IF1 extending from two sections of the upper surface WB-U, respectively, and a pattern lower surface PBF extending from the two first side surfaces IF1. The pattern lower surface PBF may be recessed from the upper surface WB-U and parallel to the upper surface WB-U. The pattern lower surface PBF may provide a substantially flat surface. In cross-section, the first thickness Th1 of the pattern lower surface PBF from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB to the first groove pattern GVP1 may be less than the thickness from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB to the pattern lower surface PBF. The first thickness Th1 from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB to the pattern lower surface PBF may be approximately 40 μm to approximately 60 μm. The portion of the window substrate WB overlapping with the first groove pattern GVP1 has a relatively small thickness in a plan view, and therefore, the window WP (see Figure 6 ) may have improved folding properties.

[0144] The two first side surfaces IF1 may be bent from two sections of the upper surface WB-U, respectively. The two first side surfaces IF1 and the pattern lower surface PBF may be integrated with each other. Each of the two first side surfaces IF1 may include an inclined surface extending from the upper surface WB-U and at least one curved surface. In an embodiment, for example, the first side surface IF1 may have a curved surface bent from the pattern lower surface PBF and having a certain curvature. Since the first side surface IF1 includes a curved surface, stress is prevented from being locally concentrated on the lower portion of the window WP during folding. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the window WP from being damaged by repeated folding operations. Based on the pattern lower surface PBF, the two first side surfaces IF1 may be symmetrical to each other. The width Wg1 of the first groove pattern GVP1 may be equal to the distance between the two first side surfaces IF1. Specifically, the width Wg1 of the first groove pattern GVP1 may be equal to the distance between the two sections of the upper surface WB-U spaced apart from each other by the first groove pattern GVP1 therebetween. In an implementation, for example, the width Wg1 of the first groove pattern GVP1 may be about 50 μm to about 200 μm.

[0145] The second pattern surface PTF2 may include a second side surface IF2 extending from the lower surface WB-B and a pattern upper surface PUF extending from the second side surface IF2. The pattern upper surface PUF may be recessed from the lower surface WB-B and parallel to the lower surface WB-B. The pattern upper surface PUF may provide a substantially flat surface. In cross-section, the second thickness Th2 of the pattern upper surface PUF from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB to the second groove pattern GVP2 may be less than the thickness from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB to the pattern upper surface PUF. The first thickness Th1 from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB to the pattern lower surface PBF may be substantially the same as the second thickness Th2 from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB to the pattern upper surface PUF. The second thickness Th2 from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB to the pattern upper surface PUF may be about 40 μm to about 60 μm. In a plan view, the portion of the window substrate WB overlapping the second groove pattern GVP2 has a relatively small thickness, and therefore, the window WP may have improved folding characteristics.

[0146] The second side surface IF2 may be bent from the lower surface WB-B. The second side surface IF2 and the pattern upper surface PUF may be integrated with each other. Each of the second side surfaces IF2 may include a flat surface extending from the lower surface WB-B and at least one curved surface. In an embodiment, for example, the second side surface IF2 may have a curved surface bent from the pattern upper surface PUF and having a certain curvature. Since the second side surface IF2 includes a curved surface, stress is prevented from being locally concentrated on the lower portion of the window WP during folding. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the window WP from being damaged by repeated folding operations. Based on the pattern upper surface PUF, the second side surfaces IF2 may be symmetrical to each other. The width Wg2 of the second groove pattern GVP2 may be equal to the distance between the second side surfaces IF2. Specifically, the width Wg2 of the second groove pattern GVP2 may be equal to the distance between the sections of the lower surface WB-B spaced apart from each other by the second groove pattern GVP2 therebetween. In an embodiment, for example, the width Wg2 of the second groove pattern GVP2 may be about 50 μm to about 200 μm.

[0147] The pitch of the plurality of first groove patterns GVP1 may be the same as the pitch of the plurality of second groove patterns GVP2 In an embodiment, for example, the pitch of each of the plurality of first groove patterns GVP1 and the plurality of second groove patterns GVP2 may be about 150 μm to about 250 μm.

[0148] like Fig. 7AAs shown in , the first angle θ1 between the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WB and the first side surface IF1 and the second angle θ2 between the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WB and the second side surface IF2 may have a value close to about 90°. In an embodiment, for example, each of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 may be about 97.9°.

[0149] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sub-groove SBH (see Figure 7B ) may be provided in at least one of the plurality of groove patterns GVP. A sub-groove SBH recessed into the window substrate WB may be provided in each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP. Specifically, the first groove pattern GVP1 may be provided with a sub-groove SBH recessed from the first pattern surface PTF1 to the inside of the window substrate WB. A plurality of sub-grooves SBH may be provided. As shown in the figure, four sub-grooves SBH may be provided in the first side surface IF1, and one sub-groove SBH may be provided in the pattern bottom surface PBF. However, the number of sub-grooves SBH is not limited thereto. For another example, the number of sub-grooves SBH provided in each of the plurality of first groove patterns GVP1 may be differently set within the range of one or more. Although not shown, the sub-groove SBH may be provided in the second groove pattern GVP2 according to the direction in which the window substrate WB is folded.

[0150] The first groove pattern GVP1, the sub-groove SBH, and the second groove pattern GVP2 may be filled with a filler FL. The filler FL may completely fill the inner space of the first groove pattern GVP1, the sub-groove SBH, and the second groove pattern GVP2. The shape of the filler FL may correspond to the shape of the first groove pattern GVP1, the sub-groove SBH, and the second groove pattern GVP2.

[0151] Reference together Figure 7B , each of the sub-grooves SBH may include a first sub-groove SBH1 and a second sub-groove SBH2 extending from the first sub-groove SBH1 to the inside of the window substrate WB.

[0152] The width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may be similar to the distance Ws between two sections of the first side surface IF1 that are separated from each other by the first sub-groove SBH1 therebetween. Specifically, the first side surface IF1 includes two first side surfaces IF1a and IF1b divided by the first sub-groove SBH1, and the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may be similar to the distance Ws between the two first side surfaces IF1a and IF1b that are separated from each other by the first sub-groove SBH1 therebetween. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may be constant in a direction toward the inside of the window substrate WB. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may increase in a direction toward the inside of the window substrate WB.

[0153] The cross-section of the second sub-groove SBH2 may have a circular shape. The maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 may be defined as the maximum diameter of the second sub-groove SBH2 in the cross-sectional view. That is, since the cross-section of the second sub-groove SBH2 has a circular shape, the maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 may be equal to the diameter of the circle. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 may be greater than the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1. In an embodiment, for example, the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may be approximately 5 μm to approximately 10 μm, and the maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 may be approximately 15 μm to approximately 20 μm.

[0154] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sub-groove SBH may include an area in which the width of the sub-groove SBH gradually increases in the direction in which the sub-groove SBH is recessed (i.e., defined as a fixing area FXA). As an example of the present disclosure, the fixing area FXA may be provided in the second sub-groove SBH2. The sub-groove SBH may have an anchor shape through the first sub-groove SBH1 and the second sub-groove SBH2. Since the sub-groove SBH includes the fixing area FXA in which the width of the sub-groove SBH gradually increases, the filler FL located in the sub-groove SBH may be fixed to the sub-groove SBH even when subjected to tensile stress.

[0155] refer to Figure 2A , Figure 6 , Fig. 7A and Figure 7B, a sub-groove SBH recessed into the window substrate WB may be provided in each of a plurality of groove patterns GVP, and a filler FL may fill the groove pattern GVP and the sub-groove SBH. When the window WP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is folded about the rotation axis FX, the filler FL provided in each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP may be subjected to compressive stress or tensile stress. Specifically, when the sub-groove SBH is not provided, when the window WP is folded, the filler FL in the first groove pattern GVP1 may be subjected to tensile stress and then separated from the first side surface IF1. That is, there may be a gap between the filler FL and the first side surface IF1. When the display device DD displays an image in the second mode, light is refracted or reflected by the gap between the filler FL and the first side surface IF1, and the light may be emitted from the display surface DS and observed. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a sub-groove SBH recessed into the interior of the window substrate WB is additionally provided in each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP, and each of the sub-grooves SBH may be completely filled with a filler FL. The maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 in the sub-groove SBH may be greater than the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1. Therefore, even when the filler FL in the first groove pattern GVP1 is subjected to tensile stress, the filler FL of the filling sub-groove SBH is attracted in the opposite direction to the tensile stress by the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 having a relatively small width. Therefore, the tensile stress is offset by the attraction, and thus, the filler FL may remain attached to the first side surface IF1. That is, a gap is not generated between the filler FL and the first side surface IF1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light generated from the display surface DS of the display module DM overlapping the first area AA1 of the window WP from being observed, and thus, a reliable display device DD may be provided.

[0156] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of a window WPa according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] refer to Figure 8 , the sub-groove SBHa recessed into the window substrate WBa may be provided in each of the plurality of groove patterns GVPa. The plurality of groove patterns GVPa may include a first groove pattern GVP1 recessed from the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WBa toward the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WBa and a second groove pattern GVP2a recessed from the lower surface WB-B of the window substrate WBa toward the upper surface WB-U of the window substrate WBa.

[0158] The first groove pattern GVP1 may be provided with an upper sub-groove SBH-U recessed from the first pattern surface PTF1 to the inside of the window substrate WBa. As shown in the figure, four upper sub-grooves SBH-U may be provided in the first side surface IF1, and one upper sub-groove SBH-U may be provided in the pattern lower surface PBF. However, the number of upper sub-grooves SBH-U is not limited thereto. For another example, the number of upper sub-grooves SBH-U provided in each of the plurality of first groove patterns GVP1 may be differently provided within one or more ranges. The first groove pattern GVP1 and the upper sub-groove SBH-U may be filled with a filler FLa. The filler FLa may completely fill the inner space of the first groove pattern GVP1 and the upper sub-groove SBH-U.

[0159] and Fig. 7A Compared to the embodiment of the present invention, the second groove pattern GVP2a may be provided with a lower sub-groove SBH-B recessed from the second pattern surface PTF2a to the inside of the window substrate WBa. As shown in the figure, four lower sub-grooves SBH-B may be provided in the second side surface IF2a, and one lower sub-groove SBH-B may be provided in the pattern upper surface PUFa. However, the number of lower sub-grooves SBH-B is not limited thereto. For another example, the number of lower sub-grooves SBH-B provided in each of the plurality of second groove patterns GVP2a may be differently set within one or more ranges. The second groove pattern GVP2a and the lower sub-groove SBH-B may be filled with a filling member FLa. The filling member FLa may completely fill the inner space of the second groove pattern GVP2a and the lower sub-groove SBH-B.

[0160] Reference together Figure 2A , since the lower sub-groove SBH-B is disposed in the second groove pattern GVP2a, when the window WPa according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is Figure 2A Folded or with Figure 2A When folded in a direction opposite to the direction shown in , even if the filling piece Fla in the upper sub-groove SBH-U or the lower sub-groove SBH-B is subjected to tensile stress, the filling piece Fla is attracted in the direction opposite to the tensile stress through the upper sub-groove SBH-U or the lower sub-groove SBH-B and can therefore remain attached to the first side surface IF1 and the second side surface IF2a.

[0161] Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B 2 is a view showing sub grooves SBHb and SBHc according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0162] refer to Fig. 9A The width of the sub-groove SBHb can be from the filler FL toward the window substrate WB (see Fig. 7A) increases inside. The maximum width Ws2a adjacent to the inside of the window substrate WB may be defined in the sub-groove SBHb, and the maximum width Ws2a may increase toward the inside of the window substrate WB. That is, as shown in reference Figure 7B As described above, the sub-groove SBHb may include a fixed area FXA in which the width of the sub-groove SBHb gradually increases in a direction in which the sub-groove SBHb is recessed. The maximum width Ws2a may be greater than the distance Ws between two sections of the first side surface IF1 spaced apart from each other by the sub-groove SBHb therebetween. The distance Ws between the two sections of the first side surface IF1 may be about 5 μm to about 10 μm, and the maximum width Ws2a may be about 15 μm to about 20 μm.

[0163] refer to Fig. 9B , the cross section of the sub-groove SBHc may have a circular shape. The maximum width Ws2b of the sub-groove SBHc may be defined as the diameter of the sub-groove SBHc. That is, since the sub-groove SBHc has a circular shape, the maximum width Ws2b of all sub-grooves SBHc may be equal to the diameter of the circle. Figure 7B As described above, the sub-groove SBHc may include a fixed area FXA in which the width of the sub-groove SBHc gradually increases in the direction in which the sub-groove SBHc is recessed. The maximum width Ws2b of the sub-groove SBHc may be greater than the distance Ws between two sections of the first side surface IF1 that are spaced apart from each other by the sub-groove SBHc therebetween. In an embodiment, for example, the distance Ws between the two sections of the first side surface IF1 may be about 5 μm to about 10 μm, and the maximum width Ws2b of the sub-groove SBHc may be about 15 μm to about 20 μm.

[0164] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C is a perspective view of a display device DD-1 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A shows a state in which the display device DD-1 is unfolded, and Fig. 10B and Fig. 10C A state in which the display device DD-1 is folded is shown. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C Shown according to Figures 1A to 3 A display device DD-1 according to another embodiment is different from the display device DD shown in FIG.

[0165] refer to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C The display device DD-1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display surface DS-1 defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 crossing the first direction DR1. The display device DD-1 may provide an image IM to a user via the display surface DS-1.

[0166] The display surface DS-1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image IM, but the non-display area NDA may not display the image IM. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the shape of the display area DA and the shape of the non-display area NDA may be changed.

[0167] The display surface DS-1 may include a sensing area TA. The sensing area TA may include a portion of the display area DA. The sensing area TA has a higher transmittance than other areas of the display area DA. Hereinafter, other areas of the display area DA except the sensing area TA may be defined as a general display area.

[0168] A light signal such as visible light or infrared light may move through the sensing area TA. The display device DD-1 may capture an external image using visible light passing through the sensing area TA, or determine whether an external object is approaching using infrared light. Fig. 10A One sensing area TA is shown as an example, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, a plurality of sensing areas TA may be provided.

[0169] The display device DD-1 may include a folding area FA (or a bending area) and a plurality of non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 (non-bending areas). The non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2 may include a first non-folding area NFA1 (or a first non-bending area) and a second non-folding area NFA2 (or a second non-bending area). In the second direction DR2, the folding area FA may be located between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0170] like Fig. 10B As shown in , the folding area FA can be folded around a folding axis FXa parallel to the first direction DR1. The folding area FA can have a certain curvature and a certain curvature radius R1. The display device DD-1 can be folded inwardly so that the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other and the display surface DS-1 is not exposed to the outside.

[0171] Although not shown, the display device DD-1 can be folded outward so that the display surface DS-1 is exposed to the outside. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device DD-1 can be configured so that the inner folding operation or the outer folding operation is repeated by the unfolding operation. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device DD-1 can be configured to select any one of the unfolding operation, the inner folding operation and the outer folding operation.

[0172] like Fig. 10BAs shown in , the distance between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be substantially the same as the curvature radius R1. Fig. 10C As shown in , the distance between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be smaller than the curvature radius R1.

[0173] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The groove pattern GVP, the sub-groove SBH, and the filler FL shown in FIG. 1 may be disposed in an area overlapping the folding area FA. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light generated from the display surface DS-1 from being observed as described above, and thus, a reliable display device DD-1 may be provided.

[0174] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11G are cross-sectional views illustrating each of operations in a method for manufacturing a window WP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] refer to Fig.11A , a preliminary window substrate P-WB may be provided. The preliminary window substrate P-WB may include an upper surface WB-U and a lower surface WB-B, and may have a thickness parallel to the third direction DR3. Fig.11A The preliminary window substrate P-WB shown in FIG. 1 may include a Figure 6 The area overlapping the first area AA1 in a plan view may be a folding area.

[0176] refer to FIG. 11B to FIG. 11D , a groove pattern GVP is formed on the preliminary window substrate P-WB.

[0177] refer to Fig. 11B , a plurality of groove patterns GVP for forming a plurality of groove patterns GVP may be defined in the first area AA1 of the preliminary window substrate P-WB (see Fig.11D ). The virtual lines GL1 to GL7 may correspond to formation positions at which the plurality of groove patterns GVP are to be formed, and may be defined in parallel to directions in which the plurality of groove patterns GVP to be formed are recessed.

[0178] The first laser beam LL1 may be emitted from above / below the preliminary window substrate P-WB in the thickness direction of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The first laser beam LL1 may be emitted to a plurality of points to overlap with virtual lines GL1 to GL7 in a plan view.

[0179] When local melting occurs due to the first laser beam LL1, the point irradiated with the first laser beam LL1 may change in phase. Therefore, the preliminary window substrate P-WB may change in refractive index. The refractive index of the point irradiated with the first laser beam LL1 may be different from the refractive index of the preliminary window substrate P-WB before irradiation with the first laser beam LL1. Each of the first laser beams LL1 may have an intensity sufficient to change the refractive index of a portion of the preliminary window substrate P-WB without cutting the portion of the preliminary window substrate P-WB.

[0180] The first laser beam LL1 may have a pulse energy. The pulse duration of the first laser beam LL1 may have a range from several hundred picoseconds to several tens of femtoseconds. In an embodiment, for example, the pulse duration of the first laser beam LL1 may be about 200 picoseconds or less. The pulse duration of the first laser beam LL1 may vary according to the material or thickness of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The wavelength of the first laser beam LL1 may be about 250nm to 1500nm, specifically, about 340nm to 1060nm.

[0181] The first laser beam LL1 may have a non-diffraction beam. In an embodiment, for example, the first laser beam LL1 may include a Bessel beam. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the first laser beam LL1 may include a Gaussian beam.

[0182] Fig. 11C : is a cross-sectional view of the preliminary window substrate P-WB after being irradiated with the first laser beam LL1. For ease of description, the portions P1 to P7 irradiated with the first laser beam LL1 are shown as hatched areas, but the portions P1 to P7 irradiated with the first laser beam LL1 may be very small and thus substantially difficult to identify with the naked eye. The refractive index of the portions P1 to P7 after being irradiated with the first laser beam LL1 may be different from the refractive index of the preliminary window substrate P-WB not irradiated with the first laser beam LL1.

[0183] In a plan view, each of the portions P1 to P7 may have a certain width. In an embodiment, for example, each of the portions P1 to P7 may have a width of about 3 μm or less. The first laser beam LL1 changes the refractive index without forming a physical hole in the preliminary window substrate P-WB, and the size of the portion where the refractive index changes is small. Therefore, the appearance change of the preliminary window substrate P-WB caused by the first laser beam LL1 may not be easily recognized, and may be recognized using a high magnification microscope or the like.

[0184] Each of the portions P1 to P7 may be spaced apart from each other at a certain interval in the first direction DR1. The intervals between the portions P1 to P7 may be equal to each other. The intervals between the plurality of groove patterns GVP to be formed may vary according to the intervals between the portions P1 to P7.

[0185] refer to Fig. 11C , portions P1 to P7 may be etched using an etching solution ES. Specifically, the etching solution ES may be provided to a first portion P1, a third portion P3, a fifth portion P5, and a seventh portion P7 on the upper surface WB-U of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The etching solution ES may be provided to a second portion P2, a fourth portion P4, and a sixth portion P6 on the lower surface WB-B of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The etching solution ES may be provided by a spraying method or a dipping method, but the method is not limited to any one embodiment. The etching solution ES may etch a portion of the preliminary window substrate P-WB around portions P1 to P7.

[0186] The etching solution ES may include an alkaline solution. In an embodiment, for example, the etching solution ES may include a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution or a potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution, and preferably, the etching solution ES may include a sodium hydroxide solution. The etching solution ES includes an alkaline solution, and therefore, each of the plurality of groove patterns GVP may have a bottom surface parallel to the upper surface WB-U of the preliminary window substrate P-WB and a side surface including at least one curved surface.

[0187] The shape of the groove pattern GVP may vary according to the etching rate or the amount to be etched. As the concentration and temperature of the etching solution ES increase, the etching rate may increase. As the exposure time to the etching solution ES (ie, etching time) increases, the amount to be etched may increase.

[0188] Specifically, as the temperature of the etching solution ES increases, the reactivity of the etching solution ES increases, and therefore, the etching rate may increase. The temperature of the etching solution ES may be equal to or higher than room temperature. In an embodiment, for example, the temperature of the etching solution ES may be from about 100 degrees to about 150 degrees. When the temperature of the etching solution ES is lower than about 100 degrees, the reactivity of the etching solution ES may deteriorate, and the process time for forming the groove pattern GVP may increase. When the temperature of the etching solution ES is higher than about 150 degrees, the preliminary window substrate P-WB may be exposed to high temperatures and may be damaged.

[0189] Fig.11D is exposed to Fig. 11C 4 is a cross-sectional view of a preliminary window substrate P-WB in which a plurality of groove patterns GVP are formed after a period of time has passed after the etching solution ES in the state shown in FIG.

[0190] The plurality of groove patterns GVP may be formed in a manner in which portions of the preliminary window substrate P-WB are recessed by the above-mentioned laser irradiation and etching. The description given above may be applied to the preliminary window substrate P-WB in the same manner.

[0191] In a method for manufacturing a window according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the number of columns of laser beams emitted to the position where a groove pattern is formed, the time for emitting the laser beams, the distance between the positions irradiated with the laser beams, and the intensity of the laser beams can be adjusted so as to manufacture windows according to various embodiments.

[0192] The plurality of groove patterns GVP may include a first groove pattern GVP1 corresponding to the first portion P1 , the third portion P3 , the fifth portion P5 , and the seventh portion P7 ; and a second groove pattern GVP2 corresponding to the second portion P2 , the fourth portion P4 , and the sixth portion P6 .

[0193] Fig.11E It is shown that the preliminary window substrate P-WB (see Fig.11D ) is formed to form a sub-groove SBH to form a window substrate WB. Fig.11E , the second laser beam LL2 may be emitted onto the side surface WIF of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. In an embodiment, for example, the second laser beam LL2 may be emitted onto the side surface WIF of the preliminary window substrate P-WB in the second direction DR2.

[0194] The second laser beam LL2 may have a pulse energy. The peak intensity of the second laser beam LL2 may be about 800 nanojoules (nJ) or higher. When the peak intensity of the second laser beam LL2 is set to about 800 nJ or higher, the sub-groove SBH may be completely formed by the side surface WIF of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The pulse duration of the second laser beam LL2 may vary depending on the material or thickness of the preliminary window substrate P-WB.

[0195] Reference together Figure 7B , the second sub-groove SBH2 may be formed, and then the first sub-groove SBH1 may be formed. By adjusting the intensity and irradiation time of the second laser beam LL2, the first sub-groove SBH1 and the second sub-groove SBH2 may be formed so that the maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 is greater than the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1. In an embodiment, for example, the width Ws1 of the first sub-groove SBH1 may be about 5 μm to about 10 μm, and the maximum width Ws2 of the second sub-groove SBH2 may be about 15 μm to about 20 μm.

[0196] The second laser beam LL2 may be emitted to a plurality of points on the side surface WIF of the preliminary window substrate P-WB. The second laser beam LL2 may pass through a plurality of points on the side surface WIF, thereby forming a plurality of sub-grooves SBH. Although not shown, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , an upper sub-groove SBH-U may be formed in the first groove pattern GVP1 , and a lower sub-groove SBH-B may be formed in the second groove pattern GVP2 a .

[0197] Fig.11F 1 is a view showing an operation of filling a plurality of groove patterns GVP and sub-grooves SBH with a filler FL. Although not shown, a preliminary filling member is provided in the plurality of groove patterns GVP and sub-grooves SBH. Subsequently, the preliminary filling member may be cured to form the filling member FL. The curing of the preliminary filling member may include a photocuring operation of emitting UV light.

[0198] Each of the fillers FL may include an elastic material. The filler FL may include an organic material. In an embodiment, for example, the filler FL may include a resin having elasticity. The filler FL may prevent the window WP from being deformed due to compressive stress or tensile stress applied during folding while maintaining improved folding characteristics of the window WP. The filler FL may include an optically transparent material.

[0199] Reference together Figure 2A , Figure 6 , Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the filling piece FL may completely fill the inner spaces of the plurality of groove patterns GVP and the sub-groove SBH. When the filling piece FL fills the inner space of the sub-groove SBH, even if the filling piece FL in the first groove pattern GVP1 is subjected to tensile stress, the filling piece FL filling the sub-groove SBH is attracted in the direction opposite to the tensile stress through the sub-groove SBH, and thus, the filling piece FL may remain attached to the first side surface IF1. No gap is generated between the filling piece FL and the first side surface IF1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light generated from the display surface DS of the display module DM overlapping the first area AA1 of the window WP in a plan view from being observed, and thus, a reliable display device DD may be provided.

[0200] Fig.11G 2 is a view showing an operation of disposing a window cover layer CWL on a window substrate WB.

[0201] The window cover layer CWL may be used to protect the window substrate WB from external impact. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the window cover layer CWL may provide various functions. In an embodiment, for example, the window cover layer CWL may provide an anti-fingerprint function, an anti-pollution function, an anti-reflection function, and an anti-glare function.

[0202] The window covering layer CWL may be directly disposed on the upper surface of the window substrate WB and the filler FL. Although not shown, an adhesive may be provided between the window covering layer CWL and the window substrate WB. The window covering layer CWL may be provided in the form of a film and attached to the window substrate WB by an adhesive, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The window covering layer CWL may be applied to the window substrate WB by various coating methods such as spin coating, inkjet coating, and rod coating. The operation of disposing the window covering layer CWL may be omitted.

[0203] Since a sub-groove recessed into the window substrate is provided in the groove pattern provided in the window according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, even when the filler filling the groove pattern receives tensile stress when the window is folded, the filler is attracted in the direction opposite to the tensile stress through the sub-groove, and therefore, the side surface of the groove pattern and the filler can remain attached to each other. Therefore, since no gap is generated between the side surface of the groove pattern and the filler, it is possible to prevent light generated from the display surface from being visually recognized. Therefore, a reliable display device can be provided.

[0204] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments, it will be understood that a person skilled in the art or a person having common general knowledge in the art may make various changes and modifications to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and technical field of the present disclosure as claimed.

[0205] Therefore, the technical scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the above description but should be defined only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A window, characterized in that: include: a window substrate including a bending portion capable of bending about a virtual bending axis extending in a first direction; a plurality of groove patterns defined in the bent portion, extending in the first direction, and arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a sub-groove recessed into the window substrate from a pattern surface defining at least one of the plurality of groove patterns; as well as a filling member, filling the plurality of groove patterns and the sub-grooves, The sub-groove includes a fixing area having a width that increases in a direction in which the sub-groove is recessed.

2. The window according to claim 1, characterized in that The plurality of groove patterns include a first groove pattern recessed from an upper surface of the window substrate and a second groove pattern recessed from a lower surface of the window substrate.

3. The window according to claim 2, characterized in that The sub-groove comprises: an upper sub-groove disposed in the first groove pattern; and The lower sub-groove is arranged in the second groove pattern.

4. The window according to claim 2, characterized in that The first groove pattern and the second groove pattern do not overlap each other in a thickness direction of the window substrate.

5. The window according to claim 1, characterized in that The sub-groove is provided in plural, and each of the plurality of groove patterns is provided with a plurality of sub-grooves.

6. The window according to claim 1, characterized in that In a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, the pattern surface is divided into two sections by the sub-groove, and a maximum width of the sub-groove is greater than a distance between the two sections of the pattern surface.

7. The window according to claim 1, characterized in that The sub-groove comprises: a first sub-groove adjacent to the pattern surface; and The second sub-groove extends from the first sub-groove to the inside of the window substrate.

8. The window according to claim 7, characterized in that In a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, a width of the first sub-groove is constant in the direction along which the sub-groove is recessed.

9. The window according to claim 7, characterized in that In a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction, a maximum width of the second sub-groove is greater than a maximum width of the first sub-groove.

10. The window according to claim 9, characterized in that The second sub-groove includes the fixing area.