Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display panel including a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, an elastic member disposed on the first surface, a first rigid member disposed on the elastic member, and a panel support member disposed on the second surface.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and all benefits derived from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0094289, filed on Jul. 20, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device. Background Art

[0004] As the information society progresses, demands for display devices for displaying images have become more diverse. For example, display devices are now applied to various electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, and smart TVs.

[0005] In order to enhance the portability of display devices while providing a larger display screen, flexible displays such as bendable, foldable, slidable, and rollable displays have been introduced.

[0006] These flexible displays are expected to have not only flexibility for easy shape deformation but also strong impact resistance, especially for products with a display surface facing outward. Such products are more susceptible to external impacts due to both flexibility and strong impact resistance. Utility Model Content

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a display device having high impact resistance against various forms of external impacts.

[0008] However, the aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to those set forth herein. The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs by referring to the detailed description of the present disclosure given below.

[0009] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a display device is provided including a display panel including a first surface and a second surface opposing each other, an elastic member disposed on the first surface, a first rigid member disposed on the elastic member, and a panel supporting member disposed on the second surface.

[0010] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a second rigid member disposed between the elastic member and the display panel.

[0011] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a third rigid member disposed between the second rigid member and the display panel, and the third rigid member and the display panel may be connected to each other via an adhesive member between the third rigid member and the display panel, wherein the third rigid member may have a modulus value greater than the modulus value of each of the first rigid member and the second rigid member, the third rigid member may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the first rigid member, and the first rigid member may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the second rigid member.

[0012] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a fourth rigid member disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member.

[0013] In an embodiment, the display device may further include at least one of a first adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the elastic member and a second adhesive member disposed between the elastic member and the first rigid member.

[0014] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, which includes a display panel including a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, an elastic member arranged on the first surface, a first rigid member arranged on the elastic member, a panel supporting member arranged on the second surface, a second rigid member arranged between the elastic member and the display panel, at least one upper bonding member arranged between the display panel, the elastic member, two of the first rigid member and the second rigid member, and at least one lower bonding member arranged between the display panel and the panel supporting member, wherein the at least one upper bonding member has a thickness greater than a thickness of the at least one lower bonding member.

[0015] In an embodiment, the thickness of the at least one upper bonding member may be two to five times the thickness of the at least one lower bonding member.

[0016] In an embodiment, the at least one upper adhesive member may include a first adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the second rigid member and a second adhesive member disposed between the second rigid member and the elastic member, and the second adhesive member may have a width smaller than that of the first adhesive member.

[0017] In an embodiment, the second adhesive member may have an adhesive force weaker than that of the first adhesive member.

[0018] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a third rigid member disposed between the second rigid member and the display panel, wherein at least one upper adhesive member may include a first adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the third rigid member and a second adhesive member disposed between the second rigid member and the third rigid member, and the second adhesive member may have a width smaller than that of the first adhesive member.

[0019] In an embodiment, the third rigid member may include ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0020] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a fourth rigid member disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member, wherein the fourth rigid member may include at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyimide.

[0021] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, which includes a display panel including a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, an elastic member arranged on the first surface, a first rigid member arranged on the elastic member, and a panel supporting member arranged on the second surface, wherein the first rigid member has a modulus value greater than the modulus value of the elastic member.

[0022] In an embodiment, the elastic member may have a modulus value of less than 1 gigapascal (GPa) at room temperature.

[0023] In an embodiment, the first rigid component may have a modulus value of 10 GPa to 15 GPa at room temperature.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first rigid member may include at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide, and ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0025] In an embodiment, the elastic member may include an expansion agent.

[0026] In one embodiment, the elastic member may include at least one of polyether block amide (PEBA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0027] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a second rigid member disposed between the elastic member and the display panel, wherein the second rigid member may include at least one of PET and polyimide.

[0028] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a third rigid member disposed between the elastic member and the display panel, wherein the third rigid member may include UTG.

[0029] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a fourth rigid member disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member, wherein the fourth rigid member may include at least one of PET and polyimide.

[0030] In an embodiment, the first surface may be a display surface for displaying an image.

[0031] According to the above and other embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a display device having high impact resistance against various forms of external impacts.

[0032] It should be noted that the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the device in its unfolded state;

[0035] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the display device in its folded state;

[0036] Figure 3 is a perspective view of another display device in its unfolded state;

[0037] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the display device in its folded state;

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

[0039] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7 is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along the line X1-X1';

[0041] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device;

[0042] Fig. 9 It is a graph comparing the modulus values ​​of various materials according to temperature;

[0043] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a first object applies an impact to a first comparative example display device;

[0044] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a second object applies an impact to the display device of the first comparative example;

[0045] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a second object applies an impact to a display device of a second comparative example;

[0046] Fig.13is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first object applies an impact to a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Fig.14 and Fig.15 The second object is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a state where an impact is applied;

[0048] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing particle distribution of an elastic member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the absence of an external impact;

[0049] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing particle distribution of an elastic member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the presence of an external impact;

[0050] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device;

[0052] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Fig.21 It is shown Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device;

[0054] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0056] Fig.24 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Instead, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0058] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. Unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context, "a", "an", "the", and "at least one" as used herein do not represent a limit to quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural. For example, unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context, "element" has the same meaning as "at least one element". "At least one" should not be interpreted as limiting "a" or "an". "Or" means "and / or". As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items. It will also be understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” or “includes” and / or “including” when used in the present specification specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or clusters thereof.

[0059] It should be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, the "first element", "component", "region", "layer" or "part" discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or part without departing from the teachings herein.

[0060] It will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being 'on' another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers may also be present. Like reference numerals refer to like components throughout the specification.

[0061] In addition, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the figures. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device. For example, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, the element described as being on the "lower" side of the other elements will then be oriented on the "upper" side of the other elements. Therefore, the term "lower" can include both the "lower" and "upper" orientations, depending on the specific orientation of the figure. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, the element described as being "below" or "beneath" of the other elements will then be oriented to be "above" the other elements. Therefore, the term "below" or "below" can include both the orientations of the upper and lower sides. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the device in its unfolded state. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a display device in its folded state.

[0063] Specifically, Figure 1 shows a first state in which the display device 10 is unfolded without being folded along the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2, and Figure 2 A second state in which the display device 10 is folded along the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 is shown.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The display device 10, which is a device for displaying video or still images, can be applied to various portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart phones, tablet personal computers (i.e., tablet PCs), smart watches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notepads, e-book readers, portable multimedia players (“PMPs”), navigation systems, and ultra mobile PCs (“UMPCs”), as well as various products such as televisions, notebook computers, monitors, advertising displays, and Internet of Things (“IoT”) devices.

[0065] In some embodiments, the display device 10 may be a flexible display, such as a bendable, foldable, slidable, or rollable display. In this case, at least some portions of the display device 10 may undergo a shape change, such as bending, folding, sliding, or rolling. For convenience, the display device 10 will be described below as, for example, a foldable display, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0066] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the figure, the first direction DR1 refers to a direction parallel to one side of the display device 10 when viewed in a plane, for example, the horizontal direction of the display device 10, the second direction DR2 refers to a direction parallel to one side of the display device 10 and intersecting with the one side of the display device 10 when viewed in a plane, for example, the vertical direction of the display device 10, and the third direction DR3 refers to a direction of the thickness of the display device 10.

[0067] The display device 10 may have a rectangular or square shape in a plan view. The corners of the display device 10 may be right angles or rounded corners. The display device 10 may have two short sides aligned in the first direction DR1 and two long sides aligned in the second direction DR2.

[0068] The display device 10 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The planar shape of the display area DA may be consistent with the shape of the display device 10. For example, if the display device 10 has a rectangular planar shape, the display area DA may also have a rectangular planar shape.

[0069] The display area DA may be an area including a plurality of pixels and thereby displaying an image. On the other hand, the non-display area NDA may be an area not including pixels and not displaying any image. The non-display area NDA may be arranged around the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display area DA may be partially surrounded by the non-display area NDA.

[0070] The display device 10 may be able to maintain both its unfolded first state and its folded second state. Figure 2 As shown in , the display device 10 can be folded outward so that the display area DA can face outward. In this case, the rear sides of the display device 10 can face each other when folded. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the display device 10 can be folded inward so that the display area DA can face inward. In this case, the front sides of the display device 10 can face each other when folded.

[0071] The display device 10 may include a folding area FDA, a first non-folding area NFA1, and a second non-folding area NFA2. The folding area FDA may be an area where the display device 10 is bent or folded, while the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 are areas where the display device 10 remains unbent or unfolded. In some embodiments, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be flat areas of the display device 10.

[0072] The first non-folding area NFA1 may be positioned on one side (e.g., the left side) of the folding area FDA. The second non-folding area NFA2 may be positioned on the other side (e.g., the right side) of the folding area FDA. The folding area FDA may be defined by a first folding line FL1 and a second folding line FL2, indicating an area where the display device 10 is bent with a predetermined curvature. The first folding line FL1 may correspond to a boundary between the folding area FDA and the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second folding line FL2 may correspond to a boundary between the folding area FDA and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0073] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the second direction DR2. In this case, the display device 10 can be folded in half along the first direction DR1. When the display device 10 is folded in half along the first direction DR1, the length of the display device 10 in the first direction DR1 is reduced to about half, making it more convenient for the user to carry the display device 10.

[0074] When the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the second direction DR2, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in , the length of the folding area FDA in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the folding area FDA in the first direction DR1. Similarly, the length of the first non-folding area NFA1 in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the first non-folding area NFA1 in the first direction DR1, and the length of the second non-folding area NFA2 in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the second non-folding area NFA2 in the first direction DR1.

[0075] The display area DA and the non-display area NDA may overlap at least one of the folding area FDA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2. Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example is shown in which the display area DA overlaps the folding area FDA, and the non-display area NDA overlaps the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0076] Figure 3 is a perspective view of another display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure in its unfolded state. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a display device in its folded state.

[0077] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The implementation method and Figure 1 and Figure 2The embodiment of the present invention is different in that the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the first direction DR1, and the display device 10 is folded in the second direction DR2, so that the length of the display device 10 in the second direction DR2 can be reduced to about half. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the following description, the Figure 1 and Figure 2 Redundant description of .

[0078] Specifically, Figure 3 shows a first state in which the display device 10 is unfolded without being folded along the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2, and Figure 4 A second state in which the display device 10 is folded along the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 is shown.

[0079] In the unfolded first state of the display device 10 , the long sides of the display device 10 may extend in the second direction DR2 , and the short sides of the display device 10 may extend in the first direction DR1 .

[0080] The first non-folding area NFA1 may be positioned on one side (eg, bottom side) of the folding area FDA. The second non-folding area NFA2 may be positioned on the other side (eg, top side) of the folding area FDA.

[0081] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 may extend in the first direction DR1, in which case the display device 10 may be folded in the second direction DR2. When the display device 10 is folded in the second direction DR2, the length of the display device 10 in the second direction DR2 is reduced to about half, making it more convenient for the user to carry the display device 10.

[0082] When the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the first direction DR1, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in , the length of the folding area FDA in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the length of the folding area FDA in the second direction DR2. Similarly, the length of the first non-folding area NFA1 in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the first non-folding area NFA1 in the first direction DR1, and the length of the second non-folding area NFA2 in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the second non-folding area NFA2 in the first direction DR1.

[0083] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] Reference Figure 5The display panel 100 may include a substrate SUB, a display layer DISL disposed on the substrate SUB, and a touch sensing layer TDL disposed on the display layer DISL. The display layer DISL may include a thin film transistor ("TFT") layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and an encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0085] The TFT layer TFTL may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The TFT layer TFTL may include a barrier film BR, a TFT TFT1, a first capacitor electrode CAE1, a second capacitor electrode CAE2, a first anode connection electrode ANDE1, a second anode connection electrode ANDE2, a gate insulating film 130, an interlayer insulating film 140 including a first interlayer insulating film 141 and a second interlayer insulating film 142, a first planarizing film 160 and a second planarizing film 180.

[0086] The substrate SUB may be formed of or include an insulating material such as a polymer resin. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate SUB may be formed of or include polyimide. The substrate SUB may be a flexible substrate that is bendable, foldable, or rollable.

[0087] The barrier film BR may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The barrier film BR is a film that protects the TFT TFT1 of the TFT layer TFTL and the light emitting layer 172 of the light emitting element layer EML from moisture penetrating through the moisture-sensitive substrate SUB. The barrier film BR may include a plurality of inorganic films alternately stacked. In an embodiment, for example, the barrier film BR may be a multilayer structure formed by alternately stacking inorganic films such as silicon nitride layers, silicon oxynitride layers, silicon oxide layers, titanium oxide layers, and / or aluminum oxide layers.

[0088] The TFT TFT1 may be disposed on the barrier film BR. The active layer ACT1 of the TFT TFT1 may be positioned on the barrier film BR. The active layer ACT1 of the TFT TFT1 may include polycrystalline silicon, single crystalline silicon, low temperature polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, or an oxide semiconductor.

[0089] The active layer ACT1 may include a channel region CHA1, a source region TS1, and a drain region TD1. The channel region CHA1 may be a region overlapping with the gate electrode TG1 in a third direction DR3 that is a thickness direction of the substrate SUB. The source region TS1 may be positioned on one side of the channel region CHA1, and the drain region TD1 may be positioned on the other side of the channel region CHA1. The source region TS1 and the drain region TD1 may be regions that do not overlap with the gate electrode TG1 in the third direction DR3. The source region TS1 and the drain region TD1 may be doped with ions or impurities in silicon or an oxide semiconductor to form a conductive region.

[0090] The gate insulating film 130 may be disposed on the active layer ACT1 of the TFT TFT1. The gate insulating film 130 may be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon nitride oxide layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0091] The gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 may be disposed on the gate insulating film 130. The gate electrode TG1 may overlap the channel area CHA1 in the third direction DR3. Figure 5 The gate electrode TG1 is shown to be spaced apart from the first capacitor electrode CAE1, but alternatively, the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 may be connected and may be integrally formed. The gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers composed of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or a combination thereof.

[0092] The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be disposed on the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1. The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be formed as an inorganic film, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be formed as a stack of a plurality of inorganic films.

[0093] The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating film 141. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may overlap the first capacitor electrode CAE1 in the third direction DR3. In the case where the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 are integrally formed, the second capacitor electrode CAE2 may overlap the gate electrode TG1 in the third direction DR3. Since the first interlayer insulating film 141 has a predetermined dielectric constant, a capacitor may be formed by the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the second capacitor electrode CAE2, and the first interlayer insulating film 141 between the first capacitor electrode CAE1 and the second capacitor electrode CAE2. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer composed of any one of Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, and Cu or a combination thereof.

[0094] The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed on the second capacitor electrode CAE2. The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be formed as an inorganic film, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be formed as a stack of a plurality of inorganic films.

[0095] The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be connected to the drain region TD1 of the TFT TFT1 through a first connection contact hole ANCT1 penetrating the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers composed of any one or a combination of Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, and Cu.

[0096] A first planarization film 160 for planarizing a step formed by the TFT TFT1 may be disposed on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1. The first planarization film 160 may be formed as an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0097] A second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be disposed on the first planarization film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be connected to the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 through a second connection contact hole ANCT2 penetrating the first planarization film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer composed of any one or a combination of Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, and Cu.

[0098] The second planarization film 180 may be disposed on the second anode connection electrode ANDE2. The second planarization film 180 may be formed as an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0099] A light emitting element layer EML including a light emitting element LEL and a bank 190 may be disposed on the second planarization film 180. Each of the plurality of light emitting elements LEL may include a pixel electrode 171, a light emitting layer 172, and a common electrode 173.

[0100] The pixel electrode 171 may be disposed on the second planarization film 180. The pixel electrode 171 may be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through a third connection contact hole ANCT3 penetrating the second planarization film 180.

[0101] In a top emission structure in which the light-emitting layer 172 emits light in a direction of the common electrode 173 relative to the light-emitting layer 172, the pixel electrode 171 can be formed using a highly reflective metal material, such as a titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / Ti stack, an indium tin oxide ("ITO") / Al / ITO stack, an ITO / silver (Ag) / ITO stack, an Ag-palladium (Pd)-Cu ("APC") alloy, or an ITO / APC / ITO stack.

[0102] The bank 190 defining the first and second emission cells EA1 and EA2 may be disposed on the second planarization film 180 to separate the pixel electrode 171. The bank 190 may be positioned to cover the edge of the pixel electrode 171. The bank 190 may be formed as an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0103] The first and second light emitting cells EA1 and EA2 represent regions where the pixel electrode 171, the light emitting layer 172, and the common electrode 173 are sequentially stacked and positive charges from the pixel electrode 171 and electrons from the common electrode 173 are combined in the light emitting layer 172 to emit light.

[0104] like Figure 5 As shown in , the light emitting layer 172 may be disposed on the pixel electrode 171. In some embodiments, the light emitting layer 172 may be disposed on the pixel electrode 171 and the bank 190. The light emitting layer 172 may include an organic material and may emit light of a specific color. In an embodiment, for example, the light emitting layer 172 may include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

[0105] The common electrode 173 may be disposed on the light emitting layer 172. The common electrode 173 may be positioned to cover the light emitting layer 172. In some embodiments, the common electrode 173 may be a common layer commonly formed in the first light emitting cell EA1 and the second light emitting cell EA2.

[0106] In the top emission structure, the common electrode 173 may be formed of or include a transparent conductive material ("TCO") capable of transmitting light therethrough, such as ITO or indium zinc oxide ("IZO"), or a semi-transmissive metal material such as an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and Ag. When the common electrode 173 is formed of or includes a semi-transmissive metal material, the efficiency of light emission can be improved due to the microcavity.

[0107] A spacer 191 may be disposed on the bank 190. The spacer 191 may support a mask during the manufacture of the light emitting layer 172. The spacer 191 may be formed as an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0108] In some embodiments, the display panel 100 may further include a cover layer CPL disposed on the common electrode 173. The cover layer CPL may include an inorganic material. In an embodiment, for example, the cover layer CPL may include at least one of silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, zirconium nitride, titanium nitride, hafnium nitride, tantalum nitride, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tin oxide, cerium oxide, and silicon oxynitride.

[0109] An encapsulation layer TFEL may be provided on the common electrode 173. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating. The encapsulation layer TFEL may also include at least one organic film to protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign matter such as dust. In an embodiment, for example, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1, an encapsulation organic film TFE2, and a second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3.

[0110] The first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1 may be disposed on the common electrode 173, the encapsulation organic film TFE2 may be disposed on the first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1, and the second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3 may be disposed on the encapsulation organic film TFE2. In an embodiment, for example, each of the first encapsulation inorganic film TFE1 and the second encapsulation inorganic film TFE3 may be formed as a multi-film structure in which inorganic films such as silicon nitride layers, silicon oxynitride layers, silicon oxide layers, titanium oxide layers, and / or aluminum oxide layers are alternately stacked. The encapsulation organic film TFE2 may be an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0111] The touch sensing layer TDL may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch sensing layer TDL may include a first touch insulating film TINS1, a connection electrode BE, a second touch insulating film TINS2, a driving electrode TE, a sensing electrode RE, and a third touch insulating film TINS3.

[0112] The first touch insulating film TINS1 may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The first touch insulating film TINS1 may be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0113] The connection electrode BE may be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1. The connection electrode BE may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer consisting of any one or a combination of Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, and Cu.

[0114] The second touch insulating film TINS2 may be disposed on the connection electrode BE. The second touch insulating film TINS2 may be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. Alternatively, the second touch insulating film TINS2 may be formed as an organic film composed of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin.

[0115] The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers consisting of any one or a combination of Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, and Cu.

[0116] The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may overlap the connection electrode BE in the third direction DR3. The driving electrode TE may be connected to the connection electrode BE through a touch contact hole TCNT1 penetrating the second touch insulating film TINS2.

[0117] The third touch insulating film TINS3 may be disposed on the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The third touch insulating film TINS3 may flatten a step formed by the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the connecting electrode BE. The third touch insulating film TINS3 may be formed as an organic film composed of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0118] The display panel 100 may have a thickness of about 20 μm to about 50 μm. Preferably, the display panel 100 may have a thickness of about 30 μm.

[0119] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken along line X1-X1'. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device. Fig. 9 is a graph comparing the modulus values ​​of various materials according to temperature.

[0120] Reference Figures 6 to 9 , the display device 10 may include a panel member PM, an upper member UM, and a lower member DM. The panel member PM may include a display panel 100, a panel lower film 200, a first adhesive member ADH1, and a second adhesive member ADH2. The upper member UM may include an elastic member 300, a first rigid member 400, a third adhesive member ADH3, and a fourth adhesive member ADH4. The lower member DM may include a panel support member 800, a lower visibility prevention member LPU, a digitizer member 900, a metal support member 1000, a buffer member 1100, an anti-penetration member 1200, and an eighth adhesive member ADH8.

[0121] The above has been referred to Figure 5 The display panel 100 is described, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] The panel under film 200 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100. The panel under film 200 may support the display panel 100 and protect the rear surface of the display panel 100. In an embodiment, for example, the display panel 100 may include a flexible material and thus may be easily deformed or susceptible to external impact when moving. Since the panel under film 200 is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100, it is possible to facilitate the movement of the panel member PM and the connection of the panel member PM with another member.

[0123] The under-panel film 200 may have a thickness of about 30 μm to about 70 μm. Preferably, the under-panel film 200 may have a thickness of about 50 μm.

[0124] In some embodiments, the panel under-film 200 may include a plastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyimide. Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is shown that the panel under film 200 is disposed even in the folding area FDA of the display device 10, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the panel under film 200 may be removed from the folding area FDA of the display device 10 to enable the display device 10 to be smoothly folded.

[0125] The first adhesive member ADH1 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100. In an embodiment, for example, the first adhesive member ADH1 may be disposed between the display panel 100 and the panel under film 200. The display panel 100 and the panel under film 200 may be coupled to each other by the first adhesive member ADH1.

[0126] The second adhesive member ADH2 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel lower film 200. In an embodiment, for example, the second adhesive member ADH2 may be disposed between the panel lower film 200 and the lower member DM. The panel lower film 200 and the lower member DM may be coupled to each other by the second adhesive member ADH2.

[0127] The first adhesive member ADH1 and the second adhesive member ADH2 may include a transparent adhesive such as a pressure sensitive adhesive ("PSA") or an optically clear adhesive ("OCA"). The first adhesive member ADH1 and the second adhesive member ADH2 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0128] The upper member UM may include various protective members for protecting the display panel 100. In an embodiment, for example, when the display device 10 is configured to be folded outward, the upper member UM may include a protective member for protecting the display panel 100 from external impacts caused because the display surface of the display panel 100 is always exposed to the outside.

[0129] External impacts can include impacts from sharp objects and impacts from blunt objects. For example, impacts from sharp objects such as needles can cause scratches or surface damage to the impacted surface, or even cause deep damage in the thickness direction of parts with low hardness or rigidity. On the other hand, impacts from blunt objects such as steel balls carry high momentum, causing the impact to be transmitted not only to the impacted surface, but also through all underlying layers.

[0130] The elastic member 300 may be positioned on the front surface of the display panel 100. The elastic member 300 may play a shock absorbing function to protect the display panel 100 from external impact. For example, the elastic member 300 may mitigate the impact caused by a blunt object. Through its high elasticity, the elastic member 300 can delay the transfer of high momentum caused by the impact of the blunt object, and thus can minimize the impact force applied to the display panel 100. Therefore, the display device 10 can have excellent resistance to external impact.

[0131] The elastic member 300 may have a thickness of about 100 μm to about 200 μm. Preferably, the elastic member 300 may have a thickness of about 150 μm.

[0132] In an embodiment, for example, the elastic member 300 may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In another example, the elastic member 300 may include polyether block amide (PEBA). Since the elastic member 300 includes at least one of TPU and PEBA, the elastic member 300 can minimize the impact force applied to the display panel 100. Therefore, the display device 10 can have excellent resistance to external impact.

[0133] In an embodiment, for example, referring to Fig. 9 , a non-retardation film NRF comprising PET has a high modulus value of about 4 gigapascals (GPa) at room temperature.

[0134] Here, the term "modulus value" refers to Young's modulus, and is measured, for example, by ASTM D638 or ASTM D3039.

[0135] In contrast, the elastic member 300 including TPU and / or PEBA may have a low modulus value of less than about 1 GPa at room temperature. Therefore, the elastic member 300 including TPU or PEBA can minimize the impact force applied to the display panel 100 due to its high elasticity and resilience. Therefore, the display device 10 can have excellent resistance to external impact.

[0136] In addition, the elastic member 300 with PEBA may show a relatively small change in modulus value as the temperature changes. In an embodiment, for example, the elastic member 300 with PEBA may have a modulus value difference of about 1 GPa in a temperature range of -40°C to +80°C. In contrast, the elastic member 300 with TPU may have a modulus value difference of about 2.5 GPa in the same temperature range, and the non-retardation film NRF with PET may have a modulus value difference of about 1.5 GPa in the same temperature range. Therefore, regardless of temperature changes, the elastic member 300 with PEBA can have excellent mechanical properties.

[0137] In some embodiments, the elastic member 300 may include an expansion agent. The expansion agent is a non-Newtonian fluid that exhibits a shear stress change that increases with an increase in shear rate as the shear stress or shear rate increases. The viscosity of the expansion agent may also increase with an increase in shear stress or shear rate. By including the expansion agent in the elastic member 300, the impact force applied to the display panel 100 can be minimized. Fig.16 A method of minimizing impact force when the elastic member 300 contains an expansion agent is described.

[0138] The first rigid member 400 may be disposed on the elastic member 300. The first rigid member 400 may play a role in mitigating impacts to protect the display panel 100 from external impacts. For example, the first rigid member 400 can mitigate impacts from sharp objects. The first rigid member 400 may have high rigidity and may therefore be able to minimize scratches or deep damage that may be caused by sharp objects. Therefore, the display device 10 can have high resistance to external impacts.

[0139] The first rigid member 400 may include a material having high rigidity, high flexibility, and high scratch resistance. The first rigid member 400 may include at least one of PET, polyimide, and ultra-thin glass (UTG), which refers to glass having a thickness of about 500 μm.

[0140] The first rigid member 400 may have a thickness of about 70 μm to about 100 μm. Preferably, the first rigid member 400 may have a thickness of about 80 μm.

[0141] The first rigid member 400 is shown as a single layer, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the first rigid member 400 may have a multi-layer structure consisting of two or more layers.

[0142] In some embodiments, the first rigid member 400 may have a modulus value greater than that of the elastic member 300. In an embodiment, for example, the first rigid member 400 may have a modulus value of about 10 GPa to 15 GPa, and the elastic member 300 may have a modulus value less than 1 GPa.

[0143] Since the first rigid member 400 has a modulus value of 10 GPa or more, it is possible to mitigate impact from a sharp object. In addition, since the first rigid member 400 has a modulus value of 15 GPa or less, it is possible to minimize bending stress applied to the display device 10 when the display device 10 is bent.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first rigid member 400 may include a coating HCL on its top surface (see Fig.13). Due to the presence of the coating HCL, the first rigid member 400 can play a role of being resistant to dents and scratches. The coating HCL may be a hard coating that has been heat-treated.

[0145] The third adhesive member ADH3 may be disposed on the rear surface of the elastic member 300. In an embodiment, for example, the third adhesive member ADH3 may be disposed between the elastic member 300 and the panel member PM. The elastic member 300 and the panel member PM may be coupled to each other by the third adhesive member ADH3.

[0146] The fourth adhesive member ADH4 may be disposed on the rear surface of the first rigid member 400. In an embodiment, for example, the fourth adhesive member ADH4 may be disposed between the first rigid member 400 and the elastic member 300. The first rigid member 400 and the elastic member 300 may be coupled to each other by the fourth adhesive member ADH4.

[0147] The third adhesive member ADH3 and the fourth adhesive member ADH4 may include a transparent adhesive such as PSA or OCA. The third adhesive member ADH3 and the fourth adhesive member ADH4 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0148] In some embodiments, at least one of the third and fourth adhesive members ADH3 and ADH4 may include an expansion agent. Since at least one of the third and fourth adhesive members ADH3 and ADH4 includes the expansion agent, impact force applied to the display panel 100 can be minimized.

[0149] The panel support member 800 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel lower film 200. The panel support member 800 may be a rigid member whose shape or volume is not easily changed under external pressure. Therefore, the panel support member 800 can support the display panel 100.

[0150] The panel supporting member 800 may have a thickness of about 100 μm to about 150 μm. Preferably, the panel supporting member 800 may have a thickness of about 120 μm.

[0151] The panel support member 800 may include a polymer including fiber yarns such as carbon fiber or glass fiber. In an embodiment, for example, where the fiber yarns of the panel support member 800 include carbon fiber, the polymer may be a resin such as epoxy, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polybutylene, or vinyl ester. In another example, where the fiber yarns of the panel support member 800 include glass fiber, the polymer may be a resin such as epoxy, polyester, polyamide, or vinyl ester.

[0152] In the case where the panel support member 800 is formed of or includes a polymer containing fiber yarns such as carbon fiber or glass fiber, the panel support member 800 can allow the magnetic field or electromagnetic signal of the digitizer member 900 to pass through the panel support member 800. Therefore, the panel support member 800 capable of supporting the display panel 100 without reducing the touch sensitivity of the digitizer member 900 can be provided.

[0153] Alternatively, the panel support member 800 may be a metal plate. In an embodiment, for example, the panel support member 800 may be a metal plate formed of or including a metal or a metal alloy. The panel support member 800 may include Cu, Al, stainless steel ("SUS"), and / or an alloy thereof, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0154] The panel support member 800 may include a lattice pattern provided in the folding area FDA to allow the panel support member 800 to be easily folded in the folding area FDA. Since the panel support member 800 includes the lattice pattern, when the display device 10 is folded, the panel support member 800 becomes easily foldable.

[0155] The panel supporting member 800 may include a folding portion, a first unfolding portion, and a second unfolding portion. The folding portion may be disposed in the folding area FDA, the first unfolding portion may be disposed in the first unfolding area NFA1, and the second unfolding portion may be disposed in the second unfolding area NFA2.

[0156] The folding portion may be a portion of the panel support member 800 that is folded together with the display device 10. The folding portion may be disposed between the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion in the first direction DR1. The folding portion may include a plurality of bars and a plurality of slits between the bars.

[0157] The plurality of rods may include horizontal rods extending in the first direction DR1 and vertical rods extending in the second direction DR2. The slits may be holes penetrating the panel support member 800 in the third direction DR3. The slits may extend in the second direction DR2. Since the folding portion includes the slits, the folding portion can have flexibility. That is, when the display device 10 is folded, the folding portion may become stretchable in the first direction DR1.

[0158] The first and second non-folding portions may be portions of the panel support member 800 that are not folded together with the display device 10. The first non-folding portion may be disposed on one side of the folding portion in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folding portion may be disposed on the other side of the folding portion in the first direction DR1.

[0159] The lower visibility preventing member LPU may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel supporting member 800. The lower visibility preventing member LPU may be positioned to overlap the folding area FDA. The lower visibility preventing member LPU may be disposed on the same layer as the eighth adhesive member ADH8. The lower visibility preventing member LPU may be disposed between the first sub-adhesive member ADH8-1 and the second sub-adhesive member ADH8-2. The lower visibility preventing member LPU may prevent the lattice pattern of the panel supporting member 800 from becoming visible from the outside. The lower visibility preventing member LPU may include a flexible material, and thus may be able to reduce the folding stress of the display device 10.

[0160] The digitizer member 900 may include a first digitizer member 910 and a second digitizer member 920. The first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may be disposed on a rear surface of the panel support member 800.

[0161] The first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA to reduce the folding stress of the display device 10. The first digitizer member 910 may be disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second digitizer member 920 may be disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. The gap between the first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may overlap the folding area FDA and may have a width smaller than the width of the folding area FDA. Here, the width of the folding area FDA may refer to the length of the folding area FDA in the first direction DR1.

[0162] The first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may include an electrode pattern to detect the proximity or contact of an electronic pen (such as a stylus) supporting an electromagnetic resonance ("EMR") method. The first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may detect a magnetic field or an electromagnetic signal emitted from the electronic pen based on the electrode pattern. The detected point with the strongest magnetic field or electromagnetic signal may be determined as a touch coordinate.

[0163] The magnetic metal powder may be placed on the rear surface of the first digitizer member 910 and the rear surface of the second digitizer member 920. In this case, the magnetic field or electromagnetic signal passing through the first digitizer member 910 and the second digitizer member 920 may flow into the interior of the magnetic metal powder. Therefore, due to the presence of the magnetic metal powder, the emission of the magnetic field or electromagnetic signal from the rear surface of the first digitizer member 910 and the rear surface of the second digitizer member 920 to the rear surface of the display device 10 can be reduced.

[0164] The metal supporting member 1000 may include a first metal supporting member 1010 and a second metal supporting member 1020. The first metal supporting member 1010 may be disposed on a rear surface of the first digitizer member 910, and the second metal supporting member 1020 may be disposed on a rear surface of the second digitizer member 920.

[0165] The first metal support member 1010 and the second metal support member 1020 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA to reduce the folding stress of the display device 10. The first metal support member 1010 may be disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second metal support member 1020 may be disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. A gap between the first metal support member 1010 and the second metal support member 1020 may overlap the folding area FDA, and may have a width smaller than that of the folding area FDA.

[0166] The first and second metal support members 1010 and 1020 may include a material having high rigidity to support the first and second digitizer members 910 and 920. In an embodiment, the first and second metal support members 1010 and 1020 may include SUS, such as SUS316, for example.

[0167] The buffer member 1100 may include a first buffer member 1110 and a second buffer member 1120. The first buffer member 1110 and the second buffer member 1120 may absorb external impact to prevent damage to the panel support member 800 and the digitizer member 900. The first buffer member 1110 and the second buffer member 1120 may include a material having elasticity, such as rubber, a urethane-based material, or a foam sponge formed of an acrylic material.

[0168] The first buffer member 1110 may be disposed on the rear surface of the first metal support member 1010, and the second buffer member 1120 may be disposed on the rear surface of the second metal support member 1020. The first buffer member 1110 and the second buffer member 1120 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA to reduce the folding stress of the display device 10. The first buffer member 1110 may be disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second buffer member 1120 may be disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. A gap between the first buffer member 1110 and the second buffer member 1120 may overlap the folding area FDA, and may have a width smaller than that of the folding area FDA.

[0169] The penetration prevention member 1200 may be disposed on the rear surface of the first metal support member 1010 and the rear surface of the second metal support member 1020. The penetration prevention member 1200 may be disposed along the edge of the first metal support member 1010 and the edge of the second metal support member 1020. The penetration prevention member 1200 is shown as being positioned only on the edge of the first metal support member 1010 and the edge of the second metal support member 1020, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the penetration prevention member 1200 may be positioned to surround the entire plane of the first buffer member 1110 and the entire plane of the second buffer member 1120 in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0170] The penetration prevention member 1200 may be a waterproof or dustproof tape or material attached to the front of a frame (not shown) or a housing (not shown) placed on the rear surface of the metal support member 1000 and the rear surface of the buffer member 1100. Therefore, the penetration prevention member 1200 can prevent moisture or dust from penetrating into the display device 10. That is, a waterproof / dustproof display device 10 can be provided.

[0171] Alternatively, the anti-penetration member 1200 may be positioned to overlap with the magnet for maintaining the folding of the display device 10 in the third direction DR3, rather than surrounding the first buffer member 1110 and the second buffer member 1120. In this case, the anti-penetration member 1200 can function as a magnetic shielding member capable of shielding the magnetic influence of the magnet on the digitizer member 900 or the display panel 100.

[0172] The eighth adhesive member ADH8 may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel support member 800. In an embodiment, for example, the eighth adhesive member ADH8 may be disposed between the panel support member 800 and the digitizer member 900. The panel support member 800 and the digitizer member 900 may be coupled to each other by the eighth adhesive member ADH8.

[0173] The eighth bonding member ADH8 may include a first sub-bonding member ADH8-1 and a second sub-bonding member ADH8-2. The first sub-bonding member ADH8-1 and the second sub-bonding member ADH8-2 may be disposed on opposite sides of the lower visibility preventing member LPU. In an embodiment, for example, the first sub-bonding member ADH8-1 may be disposed on the first digitizer member 910, and the second sub-bonding member ADH8-2 may be disposed on the second digitizer member 920.

[0174] The eighth adhesive member ADH8 may include a transparent adhesive such as PSA or OCA. The eighth adhesive member ADH8 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0175] Since the first adhesive member ADH1, the second adhesive member ADH2, the third adhesive member ADH3, the fourth adhesive member ADH4 and the eighth adhesive member ADH8 have elasticity and resilience, when the display device 10 is folded, the first adhesive member ADH1, the second adhesive member ADH2, the third adhesive member ADH3, the fourth adhesive member ADH4 and the eighth adhesive member ADH8 can reduce the folding stress applied to the display device 10.

[0176] According to the thickness of the first bonding member ADH1, the second bonding member ADH2, the third bonding member ADH3, the fourth bonding member ADH4, and the eighth bonding member ADH8, the degree of stress relief to the adjacent components may vary. In an embodiment, for example, as the thickness of the first bonding member ADH1, the second bonding member ADH2, the third bonding member ADH3, the fourth bonding member ADH4, and the eighth bonding member ADH8 increases, the stress applied to the adjacent components can be further reduced.

[0177] like Figure 8 As shown in , the thickness of the adhesive member disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100 may be greater than the thickness of the adhesive member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100. In an embodiment, for example, in the third direction DR3, the thickness ADH3_H of the third adhesive member ADH3 and the thickness ADH4_H of the fourth adhesive member ADH4 may each be greater than the thickness ADH1_H of the first adhesive member ADH1, the thickness ADH2_H of the second adhesive member ADH2, and the thickness ADH8_H of the eighth adhesive member ADH8.

[0178] The thickness of the adhesive member disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100 may be two to five times the thickness of the adhesive member disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness ADH3_H of the third adhesive member ADH3 and the thickness ADH4_H of the fourth adhesive member ADH4 may be, but not limited to, about 75 μm, and the thickness ADH1_H of the first adhesive member ADH1, the thickness ADH2_H of the second adhesive member ADH2, and the thickness ADH8_H of the eighth adhesive member ADH8 may be, but not limited to, about 25 μm.

[0179] Since the upper member 124 of the display device 10 includes the relatively thick elastic member 300 and the first rigid member 400, the upper portion of the display panel 100 may be subjected to more folding stress than the lower portion of the display panel 100. In order to balance the folding stress between the upper and lower portions of the display panel 100, the adhesive member on the front surface of the display panel 100 may be formed thicker than the adhesive member on the rear surface of the display panel 100.

[0180] Fig.101 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a first object applies an impact to the display device of the first comparative example. Fig.11 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a second object applies an impact to the display device of the first comparative example. Fig.12 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where a second object applies an impact to the display device of the second comparative example. Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a first object applies an impact to the display device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The second object is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a display device in a state where an impact is applied.

[0181] Reference Figures 10 to 15 , the first rigid member 400 may be directly disposed on the elastic member 300. In an embodiment, for example, no other element may be interposed between the first rigid member 400 and the elastic member 300 except for the fourth adhesive member ADH4.

[0182] In this specification, when one component is described as being directly disposed on another component, it includes a case where a bonding member is interposed between the two components, but does not include a case where an element other than a bonding member is interposed between the two components. Here, the term "bonding member" refers to the first bonding member ADH1, the second bonding member ADH2, the third bonding member ADH3, the fourth bonding member ADH4, and the eighth bonding member ADH8, and the fifth bonding member ADH5, the sixth bonding member ADH6, and the seventh bonding member ADH7.

[0183] Reference Fig.10 , in the first comparative example display device 10', the first rigid member 400 may not be placed on the elastic member 300. In this case, the elastic member 300 having a low modulus value may be easily damaged by the first object OBJ1 which is a sharp object.

[0184] Reference Fig.11 , the elastic member 300 may directly withstand the impact from the second object OBJ2 as a blunt object. Since the elastic member 300 has a low modulus value and high elasticity and resilience, the elastic member 300 may mainly transmit the impact received from the second object OBJ2 in the vertical direction (such as the third direction DR3), but transmit less impact in the horizontal direction (such as the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2). In other words, the elastic member 300 can partially reduce the impact from the second object OBJ2, but the first range R1 of the elastic member 300 as the impact transmission range in the horizontal direction may be relatively narrow.

[0185] Reference Fig.12In the second comparative example display device 10 ″, the elastic member 300 may not be disposed between the display panel 100 and the first rigid member 400 . In this case, the first rigid member 400 having a high modulus value may directly transmit the impact from the second object OBJ2 , which is a blunt object, to the display panel 100 .

[0186] On the contrary, refer to Fig.13 In the display device 10, the first rigid member 400 may be directly disposed on the elastic member 300. Therefore, the impact from the first object OBJ1, which is a sharp object, can be minimized. In some embodiments, the first rigid member 400 may include a coating HCL on its top surface, and may play a role in dent resistance and scratch resistance.

[0187] Reference Fig.14 and Fig.15 , in the display device 10, both the elastic member 300 and the first rigid member 400 may be provided on the display panel 100. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the impact from the second object OBJ2, which is a blunt object. For example, when the second object OBJ2 hits the first rigid member 400, the first rigid member 400 may transfer the impact received from the second object OBJ2 in a horizontal direction such as the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Therefore, the second range R2 of the display device 10, which is the impact transfer range in the horizontal direction, can be widened.

[0188] As the second range R2 becomes wider, the elastic member 300 can absorb the impact in the vertical direction (such as the third direction DR3) across the entire second range R2. In an embodiment, for example, due to the absorbed impact, the thickness of the elastic member 300 can be reduced from a first thickness TH1, which is a pre-impact thickness of the elastic member 300, to a second thickness TH2, which is a post-impact thickness of the elastic member 300. Therefore, the impact applied to the display panel 100 can be minimized by widening the impact range that can be absorbed by the elastic member 300. Therefore, the display device 10 can have excellent external impact resistance.

[0189] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing particle distribution of the elastic member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the absence of external impact. Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing particle distribution of an elastic member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the presence of an external impact.

[0190] Reference Fig.16 and Fig.17 , the elastic member 300 of the display device 10 may include a swelling agent. The swelling agent may include first particles P1 exhibiting solid properties and a first fluid Q1 exhibiting liquid properties.

[0191] The first fluid Q1 can fill the spaces between the first particles P1. The inter-particle force maintains a minimum distance between the first particles P1, allowing the first fluid Q1 to occupy the spaces between the first particles P1. Fig.16 As shown in , the center of the first particle P1 in the first row M1 in the third direction DR3 may not be directly aligned with the center of the first particle P1 in the second row M2 which is a row adjacent to the first row M1 in the first direction DR1, but may be staggered therewith.

[0192] When an external force is applied to the elastic member 300 from a specific direction, the space between the first particles P1 can be widened, resulting in a temporary decrease in the density of the first fluid Q1. Therefore, an attraction force is generated to suck the first fluid Q1 into the space between the first particles P1. This results in the generation of an instantaneous strong force caused by the generated attraction force and the intermolecular attraction force within the first fluid Q1. Therefore, as the external force increases, the swelling agent in the elastic member 300 can generate a higher force, thereby minimizing the impact transmitted to the display panel 100.

[0193] For example, Fig.17 As shown in , when an external impact is applied in a direction from top to bottom, the interval between the first particles P1 in the first row M1 and the first particles P1 in the second row M2 may increase. During this process, the volume of the elastic member 300 may increase from the first volume V1 to the second volume V2. Therefore, the density of the first fluid Q1 located in the space between the first particles P1 decreases, and an attraction force is generated to suck the first fluid Q1 into the space between the first particles P1. Therefore, as the external impact increases, the expansion agent in the elastic member 300 can generate a higher force, thereby minimizing the impact transmitted to the display panel 100.

[0194] Hereinafter, a display device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described, focusing on the differences from the display device according to the previous embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted or simplified.

[0195] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.19 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device.

[0196] Fig.18 and Fig.19 The display device 10 and Figure 7 The display device 10 is different in that it further includes a second rigid member 500 .

[0197] Reference Fig.18 and Fig.19The display device 10 may further include a second rigid member 500 disposed between the display panel 100 and the elastic member 300 .

[0198] The second rigid member 500 may perform an impact mitigation function to protect the display panel 100. For example, the second rigid member 500 may mitigate the impact transferred from the elastic member 300. Therefore, the display device 10 can have high resistance to external impact.

[0199] The second rigid member 500 may include a material having high rigidity and high flexibility. The second rigid member 500 may include at least one of PET and polyimide. In some embodiments, the second rigid member 500 may include the same material as the first rigid member 400, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the second rigid member 500 may include a material different from the first rigid member 400.

[0200] The thickness of the second rigid member 500 may be less than that of the first rigid member 400. The second rigid member 500 may have a thickness of about 50 μm to about 90 μm. Preferably, the second rigid member 500 may have a thickness of about 75 μm. In some embodiments, the second rigid member 500 may have the same modulus value as that of the first rigid member 400.

[0201] The second rigid member 500 is shown as a single layer, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the second rigid member 500 may have a multi-layer structure consisting of two or more layers.

[0202] Since the first rigid member 400 and the second rigid member 500 are respectively disposed on the front and rear surfaces of the elastic member 300 of the display device 10 , it is possible to further minimize the impact applied to the display panel 100 .

[0203] The display device 10 may further include a fifth adhesive member ADH5.

[0204] The fifth adhesive member ADH5 may be disposed on the rear surface of the second rigid member 500. In an embodiment, for example, the fifth adhesive member ADH5 may be disposed between the second rigid member 500 and the display panel 100. The second rigid member 500 and the display panel 100 may be coupled to each other by the fifth adhesive member ADH5.

[0205] The fifth adhesive member ADH5 may include a transparent adhesive such as PSA or OCA. The fifth adhesive member ADH5 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0206] In some embodiments, the fifth adhesive member ADH5 may include an expansion agent. Since the fifth adhesive member ADH5 includes the expansion agent, impact applied to the display panel 100 can be minimized.

[0207] The thickness ADH5_H of the fifth bonding member ADH5 may be greater than each of the thickness ADH1_H of the first bonding member ADH1 and the thickness ADH2_H of the second bonding member ADH2. The thickness ADH5_H of the fifth bonding member ADH5 may be the same as each of the thickness ADH3_H of the third bonding member ADH3 and the thickness ADH4_H of the fourth bonding member ADH4. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness ADH5_H of the fifth bonding member ADH5 may be about 75 μm.

[0208] In some embodiments, the third bonding member ADH3 disposed between the elastic member 300 and the second rigid member 500 may include an adhesive material. In an embodiment, for example, the bonding force of the third bonding member ADH3 may be weaker than the bonding force of each of the first bonding member ADH1, the second bonding member ADH2, the fourth bonding member ADH4, the fifth bonding member ADH5, and the eighth bonding member ADH8.

[0209] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a width ADH3_W of the third bonding member ADH3 positioned between the elastic member 300 and the second rigid member 500 in the first direction DR1 may be smaller than each of a width ADH1_W of the first bonding member ADH1, a width ADH2_W of the second bonding member ADH2, a width ADH4_W of the fourth bonding member ADH4, and a width ADH5_W of the fifth bonding member ADH5.

[0210] Since the third adhesive member ADH3 has a weak adhesive force and a small width compared with each of the other adhesive members, the layer disposed on the third adhesive member ADH3 can be separated more easily than each of the other layers in the display device 10. Therefore, if some of the multiple layers on the upper member UM are damaged, they can be easily replaced with new layers.

[0211] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.21 It is shown Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device.

[0212] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The display device 10 and Fig.18 The display device 10 is different in that it further includes a third rigid member 600 .

[0213] Reference Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The display device 10 may further include a third rigid member 600 disposed between the display panel 100 and the second rigid member 500 .

[0214] The third rigid member 600 may perform an impact mitigation function to protect the display panel 100. For example, the third rigid member 600 may mitigate an impact transferred to the second rigid member 500. Therefore, the display device 10 can have high resistance to external impact.

[0215] The third rigid member 600 may include a material having high rigidity and high flexibility. The third rigid member 600 may include UTG. In some embodiments, the third rigid member 600 may include the same material as the first rigid member 400, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the third rigid member 600 may include a material different from the first rigid member 400.

[0216] In some embodiments, the thickness of the third rigid member 600 may be greater than each of the thickness of the first rigid member 400 and the thickness of the second rigid member 500. In an embodiment, for example, the third rigid member 600 may have a thickness of about 80 μm to about 100 μm. Preferably, the third rigid member 600 may have a thickness of about 90 μm. Since the third rigid member 600 includes glass, the third rigid member 600 is thicker than each of the first rigid member 400 and the second rigid member 500. Therefore, the risk of fracture can be minimized. In addition, since the third rigid member 600 including UTG is placed below the first rigid member 400 and the second rigid member 500, the risk of fracture can be further minimized.

[0217] The third rigid member 600 may have a modulus value greater than that of each of the first rigid member 400 and the second rigid member 500. In an embodiment, for example, the third rigid member 600 may have a modulus value of about 20 GPa. Since the third rigid member 600 has a modulus value greater than that of each of the first rigid member 400 and the second rigid member 500, the impact resistance of the display device 10 can be further enhanced.

[0218] The display device 10 may further include a sixth adhesive member ADH6.

[0219] The sixth adhesive member ADH6 may be disposed on the rear surface of the third rigid member 600. In an embodiment, for example, the sixth adhesive member ADH6 may be disposed between the third rigid member 600 and the display panel 100. The third rigid member 600 and the display panel 100 may be coupled to each other by the sixth adhesive member ADH6.

[0220] The sixth adhesive member ADH6 may include a transparent adhesive such as PSA or OCA. The sixth adhesive member ADH6 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0221] In some embodiments, the sixth adhesive member ADH6 may include an expansion agent. Since the sixth adhesive member ADH6 includes the expansion agent, impact applied to the display panel 100 can be minimized.

[0222] The thickness ADH6_H of the sixth bonding member ADH6 may be greater than each of the thickness ADH1_H of the first bonding member ADH1 and the thickness ADH2_H of the second bonding member ADH2. The thickness ADH6_H of the sixth bonding member ADH6 may be the same as each of the thickness ADH3_H of the third bonding member ADH3, the thickness ADH4_H of the fourth bonding member ADH4, and the thickness ADH5_H of the fifth bonding member ADH5. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness ADH6_H of the sixth bonding member ADH6 may be about 75 μm.

[0223] In some embodiments, the fifth bonding member ADH5 disposed between the second rigid member 500 and the third rigid member 600 may include an adhesive material. In an embodiment, for example, the bonding force of the fifth bonding member ADH5 may be weaker than the bonding force of each of the first bonding member ADH1, the second bonding member ADH2, the fourth bonding member ADH4, the sixth bonding member ADH6, and the eighth bonding member ADH8.

[0224] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a width ADH5_W of a fifth bonding member ADH5 disposed between the second rigid member 500 and the third rigid member 600 may be smaller than each of a width ADH1_W of the first bonding member ADH1, a width ADH2_W of the second bonding member ADH2, a width ADH4_W of the fourth bonding member ADH4, and a width ADH6_W of the sixth bonding member ADH6.

[0225] Since the fifth adhesive member ADH5 has a weak adhesive force and a small width compared with each of the other adhesive members, the layer disposed on the fifth adhesive member ADH5 can be separated more easily than each of the other layers in the display device 10. Therefore, if some of the multiple layers on the upper member UM are damaged, they can be easily replaced with new layers.

[0226] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.24 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0227] Figure 22 to Figure 24 Any one of the display devices 10 and Figure 7 , Fig.18 and Fig. 20The display devices 10 of FIG. 1 are different in that they further include a fourth rigid member 700 .

[0228] Reference Figure 22 to Figure 24 , the fourth rigid member 700 may be disposed between the panel member PM and the panel supporting member 800 .

[0229] The fourth rigid member 700 may perform an impact mitigation function to protect the display panel 100. For example, the fourth rigid member 700 may mitigate an impact applied to the display panel 100 by counteracting a reaction force of the panel supporting member 800. Therefore, the display device 10 can have high resistance to external impact.

[0230] The fourth rigid member 700 may include a material having high rigidity and high flexibility. The fourth rigid member 700 may include at least one of PET and polyimide. In some embodiments, the fourth rigid member 700 may include the same material as the second rigid member 500, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the fourth rigid member 700 may include a material different from the second rigid member 500.

[0231] The thickness of the fourth rigid member 700 may be less than the thickness of the first rigid member 400. The fourth rigid member 700 may have a thickness of about 50 μm to about 90 μm. Preferably, the fourth rigid member 700 may have a thickness of about 75 μm. In some embodiments, the fourth rigid member 700 may have the same thickness as that of the second rigid member 500. In some embodiments, the fourth rigid member 700 may have the same modulus value as that of the second rigid member 500.

[0232] The fourth rigid member 700 is shown as a single layer, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the fourth rigid member 700 may have a multi-layer structure consisting of two or more layers.

[0233] Since at least one of the first rigid member 400 , the second rigid member 500 , and the third rigid member 600 is disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100 and the fourth rigid member 700 is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 100 , impact applied to the display panel 100 can be further minimized.

[0234] The display device 10 may further include a seventh adhesive member ADH7.

[0235] The seventh adhesive member ADH7 may be disposed on the rear surface of the fourth rigid member 700. In an embodiment, for example, the seventh adhesive member ADH7 may be disposed between the fourth rigid member 700 and the panel supporting member 800. The fourth rigid member 700 and the panel supporting member 800 may be coupled to each other by the seventh adhesive member ADH7.

[0236] The seventh adhesive member ADH7 may include a transparent adhesive such as PSA or OCA. The seventh adhesive member ADH7 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0237] The thickness of the seventh bonding member ADH7 may be smaller than each of the thickness ADH3_H of the third bonding member ADH3, the thickness ADH4_H of the fourth bonding member ADH4, the thickness ADH5_H of the fifth bonding member ADH5, and the thickness ADH6_H of the sixth bonding member ADH6. The thickness of the seventh bonding member ADH7 may be the same as each of the thickness ADH1_H of the first bonding member ADH1 and the thickness ADH2_H of the second bonding member ADH2. In an embodiment, for example, the thickness of the seventh bonding member ADH7 may be about 25 μm.

[0238] At the end of the detailed description, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiment without departing substantially from the principles of the present disclosure. Therefore, the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure disclosed are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that: include: A display panel, the display panel comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; an elastic member disposed on the first surface; a first rigid member, the first rigid member being disposed on the elastic member; as well as A panel support member is disposed on the second surface.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: A second rigid member is disposed between the elastic member and the display panel.

3. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that Also includes: a third rigid member disposed between the second rigid member and the display panel, and the third rigid member and the display panel are coupled to each other by an adhesive member between the third rigid member and the display panel, wherein the third rigid component has a modulus value greater than a modulus value of each of the first rigid component and the second rigid component, The third rigid member has a thickness greater than a thickness of the first rigid member, and The first rigid member has a thickness greater than a thickness of the second rigid member.

4. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that: Also includes: A fourth rigid member is disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member.

5. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: At least one of a first adhesive member and a second adhesive member, the first adhesive member being disposed between the display panel and the elastic member, and the second adhesive member being disposed between the elastic member and the first rigid member.

6. A display device, characterized in that: include: A display panel, the display panel comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; an elastic member disposed on the first surface; a first rigid member, the first rigid member being disposed on the elastic member; a panel support member disposed on the second surface; a second rigid member, the second rigid member being disposed between the elastic member and the display panel; at least one upper adhesive member disposed between the display panel, the elastic member, two of the first rigid member, and the second rigid member; as well as at least one lower adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member, wherein the at least one upper bonding member has a thickness greater than a thickness of the at least one lower bonding member.

7. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The thickness of the at least one upper bonding member is two to five times the thickness of the at least one lower bonding member.

8. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The at least one upper bonding member comprises: a first adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the second rigid member; and a second bonding member disposed between the second rigid member and the elastic member, and wherein the second bonding member has a width smaller than a width of the first bonding member.

9. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that: Also includes: a third rigid component, the third rigid component being disposed between the second rigid component and the display panel, Wherein, the at least one upper bonding member comprises: a first adhesive member disposed between the display panel and the third rigid member; and a second bonding member disposed between the second rigid member and the third rigid member, and wherein the second bonding member has a width smaller than a width of the first bonding member.

10. The display device according to claim 9, characterized in that: Also includes: A fourth rigid member is disposed between the display panel and the panel supporting member.

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