Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes: a display panel including a folding area; and a panel support layer disposed on the display panel and including a folding portion overlapping the folding area, in which the panel support layer includes: one or more rods and one or more slits, the one or more rods and the one or more slits being alternately arranged with each other in the folding portion; and a filler at least partially disposed in the one or more slits, and wherein the filler is disposed in a first row of slits among the one or more slits at both ends of the folded portion.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0101479, filed on August 3, 2023, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device including a panel support member. Background art

[0004] With the evolution and further development of an information - oriented society, the demand for further development of display devices has increased. For example, display devices are being integrated into various electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation devices, and smart TVs.

[0005] Recently, in order to increase the portability of display devices and provide a wider display screen, bendable display devices in which the display area can be bent or foldable display devices in which the display area can be folded are being developed. Summary of the utility model

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a display panel including a folding area; and a panel support layer disposed on the display panel and including a folding portion overlapping the folding area, wherein the panel support layer includes: one or more rods and one or more slits alternately arranged with each other in the folding portion; and a filler at least partially disposed in the one or more slits, and wherein the filler is disposed in a first row of slits located at both ends of the folding portion among the one or more slits.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler is only partially disposed in the first row of slits.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the length of the filler is less than the length of the first row of slits.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler is disposed adjacent to the end of the folding portion.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end of the filler is a flat surface.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end of the filler and the end of the folding portion are located on substantially the same plane.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an end portion of a folded portion of the panel support layer protrudes beyond an end portion of the display panel.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end portion of the folded portion includes a first region that protrudes beyond an end portion of the display panel, wherein a first row of slits at least partially overlaps with the first region, and wherein the filler is disposed only in the first region.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the length of the first region is equal to the length of the filler.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler is not disposed in row slits other than the first row of slits.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the modulus of the filler is equal to or less than approximately 15 MPa.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler includes: a first portion disposed in the first row of slits; and a second portion disposed outside the first row of slits, and wherein the second portion overlaps with one or more slits and one or more rods.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second portion includes recesses that overlap with one or more slits.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an end portion of the filler includes a protrusion that protrudes beyond an end portion of the folded portion.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end portion of the filler has a rounded shape.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first row of slits includes a plurality of slits arranged in a first direction different from a direction in which the folded portion extends, and wherein the filler is disposed in all of the plurality of slits of the first row of slits.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first end portion of the filler disposed in the plurality of slits protrudes beyond an end portion of the folded portion and has a rounded surface, and wherein a second end portion of the filler disposed in the plurality of slits opposite to the first end portion has a flat surface.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an end portion of the filler includes a recess that is recessed from an end portion of the folded portion.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end portion of the folded portion includes a portion where no rod is provided.

[0025] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler is completely disposed in the first row of slits. Description of the Drawings

[0026] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing embodiments thereof in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 7 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 8 is Figure 7 an enlarged view of region A of

[0035] Figure 9 is a plan view showing a display panel and a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 10 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 11 is Figure 10 an enlarged view of region B of

[0038] Figure 12 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 13 is Figure 12 an enlarged view of region C of

[0040] Figure 14 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 15 is Figure 14An enlarged view of region D.

[0042] Figure 16 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 17 is Figure 16 An enlarged view of region E.

[0044] Figure 18 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 19 is Figure 18 An enlarged view of region F. Detailed Description

[0046] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure.

[0047] 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 an intervening layer may also be present. Throughout the specification and drawings, the same reference numerals may indicate the same components, and thus repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 shows a first state of the display device 10 when the display device 10 is not folded with respect to the folding lines FL1 and FL2. In other words, Figure 1 shows that the first state of the display device 10 is the unfolded state. Figure 2 shows a second state of the display device 10 when the display device 10 is folded with respect to the folding lines FL1 and FL2.

[0051] The display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to display moving images or still images. The display device 1 can be used as a display screen of a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet PC, a smartwatch, a watch phone, a mobile communication terminal, an electronic notebook, an e-book, a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation device, and an ultra-portable mobile PC (UMPC), as well as a display screen of various products such as a television, a notebook, a monitor, a billboard, and an Internet of Things device.

[0052] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown in, the first direction DR1 may refer to a direction parallel to the first side of the display device 10, for example, the horizontal direction of the display device 10 when viewed from the top. The second direction DR2 may refer to a direction parallel to the second side of the display device 10 that intersects the first side of the display device 10, for example, the vertical direction of the display device 10 when viewed from the top. The third direction DR3 may refer to the thickness direction of the display device 10.

[0053] When viewed from the top, the display device 10 may have a quadrilateral shape such as a rectangular shape. When viewed from the top, each of the corners of the display device 10 may form a right angle or may be rounded. For example, the front surface of the display device 10 may include two shorter sides extending in the first direction DR1 and two longer sides extending in the second direction DR2.

[0054] The display device 10 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. When viewed from the top, the shape of the display area DA may follow the shape of the display device 10. For example, when the display device 10 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the top, the display area DA may also have a rectangular shape when viewed from the top.

[0055] The display area DA may include a plurality of pixels for displaying images. The non-display area NDA may not include pixels and thus may not display images. The non-display area NDA may be provided to surround the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may at least partially surround the display area DA, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The display area DA may be partially surrounded by the non-display area NDA.

[0056] The display device 10 may be maintained in a first state when it is in an unfolded state, or in a second state when it is in a bent state. The display device 10 may be folded inward such that a part of the display device DA faces another part (e.g., in an inward folding manner), as Figure 2As shown. In this case, a part of the front surface of the display device 10 can face another part of the front surface when it is folded. Additionally, the display device 10 can be folded outwards (e.g., in an outwards folding manner) such that a part of the rear surface faces another part of the rear surface when it is folded.

[0057] The display device 10 can include a folding region FDA, a first non-folding region NFA1, and a second non-folding region NFA2. The display device 10 can be bent or folded at the folding region FDA, but cannot be bent or folded at the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 can be flat regions of the display device 10.

[0058] The first non-folding region NFA1 can be disposed on one side (e.g., the left side) of the folding region FDA. The second non-folding region NFA2 can be disposed on the opposite side (e.g., the right side) of the folding region FDA. The folding region FDA can be defined by a first folding line FL1 and a second folding line FL2, where the display device 10 can be bent with a predetermined curvature. The first folding line FL1 can be the boundary between the folding region FDA and the first non-folding region NFA1, and the second folding line FL2 can be the boundary between the folding region FDA and the second non-folding region NFA2.

[0059] The first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 can extend in a second direction DR2 as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 and the display device 10 can be folded along a first direction DR1. Thus, the length of the display device 10 in the first direction DR1 can be reduced to approximately half, making the display device 10 easy to carry.

[0060] When the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the second direction DR2 as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 the length of the folding region FDA in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the length of the folding region FDA in the first direction DR1. Additionally, the length of the first non-folding region NFA1 in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the length of the first non-folding region NFA1 in the first direction DR1. The length of the second non-folding region NFA2 in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the length of the second non-folding region NFA2 in the first direction DR1.

[0061] Each of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA can overlap with at least one of the folding region FDA, the first non-folding region NFA1, and the second non-folding region NFA2. In Figure 1 and Figure 2In the example shown, each of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA overlaps with the folding area FDA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0062] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a display device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a display device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Except that the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 extend in the first direction DR1 and the display device 10 can be folded in the second direction DR2 such that the length of the display device 10 in the second direction DR2 can be reduced by approximately half, Figure 3 and Figure 4 the embodiment of Figure 1 and Figure 2 is substantially the same as the embodiment of Figure 3 and Figure 4 Therefore, the elements of Figure 1 and Figure 2 that are the same as those of

[0065] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 shows a first state in which the display device 10 is unfolded, and Figure 4 shows a second state in which the display device 10 is folded with respect to the folding lines FL1 and FL2.

[0066] In the first state in which the display device 10 is unfolded, the longer side of the display device 10 can extend in the second direction DR2, and the shorter side of the display device 10 can extend in the first direction DR1.

[0067] The first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 can extend in the first direction DR1 as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 and the display device 10 can be folded in the second direction DR2.

[0068] The first non-folding area NFA1 can be provided on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the folding area FDA. The second non-folding area NFA2 can be provided on the opposite side (e.g., the upper side) of the folding area FDA.

[0069] When the first folding line FL1 and the second folding line FL2 are as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4When extending in the first direction DR1 as shown, the length of the folding region FDA in the first direction DR1 can be greater than the length of the folding region FDA in the second direction DR2. Additionally, the length of the first non-folding region NFA1 in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the length of the first non-folding region NFA1 in the first direction DR1. The length of the second non-folding region NFA2 in the second direction DR2 can be greater than the length of the second non-folding region NFA2 in the first direction DR1.

[0070] In the following description, for ease of explanation, embodiments of Figure 1 and Figure 2 will be described as examples, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The following description can equally apply to embodiments of Figure 3 and Figure 4 as well.

[0071] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Referring to Figure 5 a display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first upper protection member 100 (or a first upper protection layer), a window member 200, a first adhesive member 300 (or a first adhesive), a second upper protection member 400 (or a second upper protection layer), a display panel 500, a lower protection member 600 (or a lower protection layer), a panel support member 700 (or a panel support layer), a buffer member 800 (or a buffer layer), a second adhesive member 900 (or a second adhesive), a lower functional member 1000 (or a lower functional layer), a third adhesive member 1100 (or a third adhesive), a metal support member 1200 (or a metal support layer), and a moisture barrier member 1300 (or a moisture barrier layer).

[0073] The display panel 500 may be a panel for displaying an image. For example, the display panel 500 may be an organic light-emitting display panel including an organic light-emitting layer, a quantum dot light-emitting display panel including a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting display panel using an inorganic semiconductor element as a light-emitting element, and a micro light-emitting display panel using a micro light-emitting diode as a light-emitting element. In the following description, an organic light-emitting display panel is adopted as the display panel 500. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0074] The display panel 500 may include a light-transmitting area LTA that overlaps with an optical device OPD in a third direction DR3. The optical device OPD is an optical sensor that detects light and may be, for example, a camera sensor, a proximity sensor, and an illuminance sensor. The light-transmitting area LTA may be a part of the display area DA.

[0075] The light-transmitting area LTA may include a transmissive area that allows light to pass through. Additionally, the light-transmitting area LTA may be a through-hole penetrating the display panel 500. The transmittance of the light-transmitting area LTA may be higher than that of the portion of the display area DA that does not include the light-transmitting area LTA. Additionally, due to the transmissive area of the light-transmitting area LTA, the density or integration degree of pixels in the light-transmitting area LTA may be lower than that of pixels in the display area DA that does not include the light-transmitting area LTA. For example, the number of pixels per unit area in the light-transmitting area LTA may be less than the number of pixels per unit area in the display area DA that does not include the light-transmitting area LTA. Additionally, the pixels per inch (PPI) in the light-transmitting area LTA may be less than the PPI in the display area DA that does not include the light-transmitting area LTA.

[0076] The second upper protection member 400 may be disposed on the front surface of the display panel 500. The second upper protection member 400 can mitigate impacts to protect the display panel 500 from the influence of external impacts. For example, the second upper protection member 400 may include a material having high flexibility and high rigidity.

[0077] The window member 200 may be attached to the front surface of the second upper protection member 400 through the first adhesive member 300. The window member 200 is made of a transparent material and may be, for example, glass or plastic. For example, the window member 200 may be an ultra-thin glass (UTG) having a thickness of about 0.1 mm or less, or a transparent polyimide film.

[0078] The first adhesive member 300 may be a transparent adhesive film or a transparent adhesive resin. For example, the first adhesive member 300 may include a transparent adhesive such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The first adhesive member 300 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0079] The first upper protection member 100 may be disposed on the front surface of the window member 200. When the window member 200 is damaged, the first upper protection member 100 may perform at least one of the following functions: shock absorption, scratch prevention, fingerprint prevention, antiglare, or antiscattering. For example, the first upper protection member 100 may include a material having high flexibility and scratch resistance.

[0080] The lower protection member 600 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 500. The lower protection member 600 can support the display panel 500 and protect the rear surface of the display panel 500. The lower protection member 600 may be made of plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyimide.

[0081] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in order to facilitate the folding of the display device 10, at least a part of the lower protection member 600 may be removed from the folding area FDA of the display device 10. For example, asFigure 5 As shown, the lower protection member 600 may include a gap GAP in the folding region FDA. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion of the gap GAP may be in the folding region FDA and the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2.

[0082] The gap GAP may be set adjacent to the upper surface of the panel support member 700. In the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, since the lower protection member 600 includes the gap GAP, it is possible to prevent the panel support member 700 having high rigidity from directly contacting the lower protection member 600 with each other in the folding region FDA. By doing so, the folding stress of the display device 10 can be reduced.

[0083] The panel support member 700 may be disposed on the rear surface of the lower protection member 600. The panel support member 700 may be a rigid member that is not easily deformed in shape or volume due to external pressure. The panel support member 700 may support the display panel 500.

[0084] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the panel support member 700 may be a metal plate. For example, the panel support member 700 may be a metal plate and may be made of a metal or a metal alloy. For example, the panel support member 700 may include, but is not limited to, copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), stainless steel (SUS), and / or their alloys.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the panel support member 700 may be a polymer including carbon fiber or glass fiber. In this case, since the panel support member 700 is formed of a polymer including carbon fiber or glass fiber, the electromagnetic signal of the digital converter member in the display device 10 can pass through. Therefore, it is possible to provide the panel support member 700 that can support the display panel 500 without reducing the touch sensitivity of the digital converter member.

[0086] The panel support member 700 may include a through hole STH that overlaps with the optical device OPD in the third direction DR3. The through hole STH may overlap with the light transmissive region LTA of the display panel 500 in the third direction DR3. The area of the through hole STH may be greater than or equal to the area of the light transmissive region LTA. The optical device OPD may detect light incident from the front of the display device 10 through the light transmissive region LTA and the through hole STH.

[0087] The panel support member 700 may include a lattice pattern disposed on the folding region FDA so that it can be easily bent in the folding region FDA. Since the panel support member 700 includes the lattice pattern disposed in the folding region FDA, when the display device 10 is folded, the panel support member 700 can be easily bent.

[0088] Reference will be made to Figure 7 and the like to describe the panel support member 700 in detail.

[0089] When the display device 10 is folded, the buffer member 800 can reduce the folding stress of the panel support member 700 having high rigidity. The buffer member 800 may include a highly elastic material to absorb shock. For example, the buffer member 800 may include, but is not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0090] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device 10 may further include a digitizer member. The digitizer member may be disposed on the rear surface of the buffer member 800. The digitizer member may include an electrode pattern for sensing the proximity or contact of an electronic pen (such as a stylus supporting electromagnetic resonance (EMR) technology). The digitizer member may detect a magnetic field or an electromagnetic signal emitted from the electronic pen based on the electrode pattern, and may determine the touch coordinates of the point where the detected magnetic field or electromagnetic signal is maximum.

[0091] Magnetic metal powder may be disposed on the rear surface of the digitizer member. In this case, the magnetic field or electromagnetic signal passing through the digitizer member may flow into the magnetic metal powder. Therefore, by virtue of the magnetic metal powder, the amount of the magnetic field or electromagnetic signal from the digitizer member to the rear surface of the display device 10 can be reduced.

[0092] The lower functional member 1000 may be attached to the rear surface of the buffer member 800 by the second adhesive member 900. The lower functional member 1000 may include at least one of a light-shielding layer for absorbing light incident from the outside, a buffer layer for absorbing external shock, and a heat dissipation layer for effectively releasing heat from the display panel 500.

[0093] The light-shielding layer can block the transmission of light, thereby preventing the components disposed under the light-shielding layer from being seen from above the display panel 500. The light-shielding layer may include light-absorbing materials such as black pigments and black dyes.

[0094] The buffer layer can absorb external shock to prevent the display panel 500 from being damaged. The buffer layer may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the buffer layer may be formed of a polymer resin (such as polyurethane, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and polyethylene), or may be formed of an elastic material (such as rubber and sponge obtained by foaming polyurethane-based materials or acrylic-based materials).

[0095] The heat dissipation layer may include a first heat dissipation layer and a second heat dissipation layer. The first heat dissipation layer includes graphite or carbon nanotubes, and the second heat dissipation layer is formed of a thin metal film such as copper, nickel, ferrite, and silver that can block electromagnetic waves and has high thermal conductivity.

[0096] The second adhesive member 900 may be a transparent adhesive film or a transparent adhesive resin. For example, the second adhesive member 900 may include a transparent adhesive, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The second adhesive member 900 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0097] The second adhesive member 900 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA of the display device 10 to facilitate the folding of the display device 10. For example, the second adhesive member 900 may include a (2-1) adhesive member 910 disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1 and a (2-2) adhesive member 920 disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. The (2-1) adhesive member 910 and the (2-2) adhesive member 920 may be spaced apart from each other by the folding area FDA therebetween.

[0098] The metal support member 1200 may be attached to the rear surface of the lower functional member 1000 through the third adhesive member 1100. The metal support member 1200 may include a material having high rigidity to support the lower functional member 1000. For example, the metal support member 1200 may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel, such as SUS316.

[0099] The metal support member 1200 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA of the display device 10 to facilitate the folding of the display device 10. For example, the metal support member 1200 may include a first metal support member 1210 disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1 and a second metal support member 1220 disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. The first metal support member 1210 and the second metal support member 1220 may be spaced apart from each other by the folding area FDA therebetween. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a part of the first metal support member 1210 and a part of the second metal support member 1220 may be disposed in the folding area FDA.

[0100] The third adhesive member 1100 may be a transparent adhesive film or a transparent adhesive resin. For example, the third adhesive member 1100 may include a transparent adhesive, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The third adhesive member 1100 may include an acrylic adhesive material.

[0101] The third adhesive member 1100 may not be disposed in the folding area FDA of the display device 10 to facilitate the folding of the display device 10. For example, the third adhesive member 1100 may include a (3-1) adhesive member 1110 disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1 and a (3-2) adhesive member 1120 disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2. The (3-1) adhesive member 1110 and the (3-2) adhesive member 1120 may be spaced apart from each other by the folding area FDA therebetween.

[0102] The anti - penetration member 1300 can be disposed on the rear surface of the buffer member 800. The anti - penetration member 1300 can be disposed between the buffer member 800 and the metal support member 1200 in the third direction DR3. The anti - penetration member 1300 can cover the side surfaces of the second adhesive member 900, the lower functional member 1000, and the third adhesive member 1100.

[0103] The anti - penetration member 1300 can be disposed at the edge of the buffer member 800. The anti - penetration member 1300 can be disposed on one side of the lower functional member 1000. Although in the drawings, the anti - penetration member 1300 is only disposed at the edge of the buffer member 800 or on one side of the lower functional member 1000 in the first direction DR1, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the anti - penetration member 1300 can be disposed to surround the lower functional member 1000 in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 on a plane.

[0104] The anti - penetration member 1300 can be a waterproof (dust - proof) tape or a waterproof (dust - proof) member that attaches the rear surface of the buffer member 800 to the front surface of the metal support member 1200. Therefore, the anti - penetration member 1300 can prevent moisture or dust from penetrating into the display device 10. That is, a display device 10 with waterproof and dust - proof capabilities can be produced.

[0105] Figure 6 is a cross - sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Reference Figure 6 , the display panel 500 can include a substrate SUB, a display layer DISL disposed on the substrate SUB, and a touch detection layer TDL disposed on the display layer DISL. The display layer DISL can include a thin - film transistor layer TFTL, an emission material layer EML, and a packaging layer TFEL.

[0107] The thin - film transistor layer TFTL can be disposed on the substrate SUB. The thin - film transistor layer TFTL can include a barrier film BR, thin - film transistors 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 insulator 130, an inter - layer dielectric film 140 including a first inter - layer dielectric film 141 and a second inter - layer dielectric film 142, a first planarization film 160, and a second planarization film 180.

[0108] The substrate SUB can be made of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. For example, the substrate SUB can be made of polyimide. The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded, or curled.

[0109] The barrier film BR can be disposed on the substrate SUB. The barrier film BR is a film for protecting the thin film transistors of the thin film transistor layer TFTL and the emission layer 172 of the emission material layer EML. The barrier film BR can be composed of a plurality of inorganic films stacked alternately with each other. For example, the barrier film BR can be composed of multiple layers in which inorganic layers such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are stacked alternately with each other.

[0110] The thin film transistor TFT1 can be disposed on the barrier film BR. The active layer ACT1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 can be disposed on the barrier film BR. The active layer ACT1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 can include, for example, polysilicon, single crystal silicon, low temperature polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or an oxide semiconductor.

[0111] The active layer ACT1 can include a channel region CHA1, a source region TS1, and a drain region TD1. The channel region CHA1 can overlap with the gate electrode TG1 in the third direction DR3. The source region TS1 can be disposed on one side of the channel region CHA1, and the drain region TD1 can be disposed on the opposite side of the channel region CHA1. The source region TS1 and the drain region TD1 may not overlap with the gate electrode TG1 in the third direction DR3. The source region TS1 and the drain region TD1 can be formed by doping a silicon semiconductor or an oxide semiconductor with ions or impurities to have conductivity.

[0112] The gate insulator 130 can be disposed on the active layer ACT1 of the thin film transistor TFT1. The gate insulator 130 can be formed of an inorganic layer (for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer).

[0113] The gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 can be disposed on the gate insulator 130. The gate electrode TG1 can overlap with the channel region CHA1 in the third direction DR3. Although in the example shown in Figure 6 the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 are spaced apart from each other, the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 can be connected as a single piece. The gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 can be a single layer or multiple layers composed of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or an alloy thereof.

[0114] The first interlayer dielectric film 141 may be disposed on the gate electrode TG1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1. The first interlayer dielectric film 141 may be formed of an inorganic layer (e.g., a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer). The first interlayer dielectric film 141 may be made of a plurality of inorganic films.

[0115] The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may be disposed on the first interlayer dielectric film 141. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may overlap with the first capacitor electrode CAE1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 in the third direction DR3. Additionally, when the gate electrode TG1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 are formed as a single piece, the second capacitor electrode CAE2 may overlap with the gate electrode TG1 in the third direction DR3. Since the first interlayer dielectric film 141 has a predetermined dielectric constant, a capacitor can be formed by the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the second capacitor electrode CAE2, and the first interlayer dielectric film 141 disposed therebetween. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 may be a single layer or a multilayer formed of at least one of, for example, molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0116] The second interlayer dielectric film 142 may be disposed on the second capacitor electrode CAE2. The second interlayer dielectric film 142 may be formed of an inorganic layer (e.g., a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer). The second interlayer dielectric film 142 may be made of a plurality of inorganic films.

[0117] The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be disposed on the second interlayer dielectric film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be connected to the drain region TD1 of the thin film transistor TFT1 through a first connection contact hole ANCT1 that penetrates the gate insulator 130, the first interlayer dielectric film 141, and the second interlayer dielectric film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be a single layer or a multilayer formed of at least one of, for example, molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0118] The first planarization film 160 may be disposed on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 and may provide a flat surface above the level difference caused by the thin film transistor TFT1. The first planarization film 160 may be formed of an organic layer such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0119] The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be disposed on the first planarization film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be connected to the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 through a second connection contact hole ANCT2 that penetrates the first planarization film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be a single layer or a multi-layer formed of at least one of, for example, molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0120] The second planarization film 180 can be disposed on the second anode connection electrode ANDE2. The second planarization film 180 can be formed as an organic layer such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0121] The emission material layer EML including the light-emitting element LEL and the bank 190 can be disposed on the second planarization film 180. Each of the light-emitting elements LEL includes a pixel electrode 171, an emission layer 172, and a common electrode 173.

[0122] The pixel electrode 171 can be disposed on the second planarization film 180. The pixel electrode 171 can be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through a third connection contact hole ANCT3 that penetrates the second planarization film 180.

[0123] In a top emission structure in which light is emitted from the emission layer 172 toward the common electrode 173, the pixel electrode 171 can be made of a metal material having a high reflectivity, such as a stacked structure of titanium and aluminum (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum (Al) and ITO (indium tin oxide) (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, and a stacked structure of an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO). The APC alloy is an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0124] The bank 190 can partition the pixel electrodes 171 on the second planarization film 180 to define emission regions EA1 and EA2 of the light-emitting element LEL. The bank 190 can be disposed to cover the edges of the pixel electrodes 171. The bank 190 can be formed of an organic layer such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0125] In each of the first emission region EA1 and the second emission region EA2, the pixel electrode 171, the emission layer 172, and the common electrode 173 are stacked on top of each other in sequence, such that holes from the pixel electrode 171 and electrons from the common electrode 173 recombine with each other in the emission layer 172 to emit light.

[0126] The emission layer 172 may be disposed on the pixel electrode 171 and in the bank 190. The emission layer 172 may be disposed on the pixel electrode 171 in the opening of the bank 190. The emission layer 172 may include an organic material to emit light of a specific color. For example, the emission layer 172 may include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

[0127] The common electrode 173 may be disposed on the emission layer 172. The common electrode 173 may be disposed to cover the emission layer 172. Although Figure 6 not shown in [description], in some embodiments, the common electrode 173 may be a common layer formed across the first emission region EA1 and the second emission region EA2.

[0128] In a top-emission organic light-emitting diode, the common electrode 173 may be formed of, for example, a transparent conductive material (TCP) capable of transmitting light (such as ITO and IZO) or a semi-transmissive conductive material (such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), and an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag)). When the common electrode 173 is formed of a semi-transmissive metal material, the light extraction efficiency can be improved by using a microcavity.

[0129] The spacer 191 may be disposed on the bank 190. The spacer 191 may support a mask during the process of fabricating the emission layer 172. The spacer 191 may be formed of an organic layer such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display panel 500 may further include a cover layer CPL disposed on the common electrode 173. The cover layer CPL may be made of an inorganic material. 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.

[0131] The encapsulation layer TFEL may be disposed on the common electrode 173. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the emission material layer EML. Additionally, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic film to protect the emission material layer EML from particles such as dust. For example, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first inorganic encapsulation film TFE1, an organic encapsulation film TFE2, and a second inorganic encapsulation film TFE3.

[0132] The first inorganic encapsulation film TFE1 can be disposed on the common electrode 173. The organic encapsulation film TFE2 can be disposed on the first inorganic encapsulation film TFE1, and the second inorganic encapsulation film TFE3 can be disposed on the organic encapsulation film TFE2. The first inorganic encapsulation film TFE1 and the second inorganic encapsulation film TFE3 can be composed of multiple layers in which inorganic layers such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked with each other. The organic encapsulation film TFE2 can be an organic film such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin.

[0133] The touch detection layer TDL can be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch detection layer TDL includes 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.

[0134] The first touch insulating film TINS1 can be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The first touch insulating film TINS1 can be formed of an inorganic layer (e.g., a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer).

[0135] The connection electrode BE can be disposed on the first touch insulating film TINS1. The connection electrode BE can be a single layer or multiple layers composed of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0136] The second touch insulating film TINS2 can be disposed above the connection electrode BE and on the first touch insulating film TINS1. The second touch insulating film TINS2 can be formed of an inorganic layer (e.g., a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer). Additionally, the second touch insulating film TINS2 can be formed of an organic layer such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0137] The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can be disposed on the second touch insulating film TINS2. The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can be a single layer or multiple layers composed of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0138] Each of the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can overlap with the connection electrode BE in the third direction DR3. The driving electrode TE can be connected to the connection electrode BE through a touch contact hole TCNT1 penetrating the second touch insulating film TINS2.

[0139] The third touch insulating film TINS3 may be formed on the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The third touch insulating film TINS3 may provide a flat surface over the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the connection electrode BE, and all of the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the connection electrode BE have different heights from each other. The third touch insulating film TINS3 may be formed of an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0140] Figure 7 is a plan view of a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is Figure 7 an enlarged view of region A of

[0141] Referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the panel support member 700 may include a folding portion 710, a first non-folding portion 720, and a second non-folding portion 730. The folding portion 710 may be disposed in the folding area FDA. The first non-folding portion 720 may be disposed in the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding portion 730 may be disposed in the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0142] When the display device 10 is folded, the folding portion 710 may be folded. The folding portion 710 may be disposed between the first non-folding portion 720 and the second non-folding portion 730 in the first direction DR1.

[0143] When the display device 10 is folded, the first non-folding portion 720 and the second non-folding portion 730 may not be folded. The first non-folding portion 720 may be disposed on one side of the folding portion 710 in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folding portion 730 may be disposed on the opposite side of the folding portion 710 in the first direction DR1.

[0144] The folding portion 710 may include a lattice pattern. For example, the folding portion 710 may include a plurality of bars BAR and a plurality of slits SLT disposed between the plurality of bars BAR.

[0145] The plurality of bars BAR may include a plurality of horizontal bars HBAR extending in the first direction DR1 and a plurality of vertical bars VBAR extending in the second direction DR2.

[0146] Each of the plurality of slits SLT may be a hole that penetrates the panel support member 700 in a third direction DR3. The plurality of slits SLT may each extend in a second direction DR2. For example, the length of each of the plurality of slits SLT in the second direction DR2 may be greater than the length of the slit SLT in a first direction DR1. Since the folding portion 710 includes the plurality of slits SLT, the panel support member 700 can be flexible. That is, when the display device 10 is folded, the folding portion 710 may extend in the first direction DR1.

[0147] In Figure 8 the example shown, the plurality of slits SLT are provided in a first slit column CS1 to a seventh slit column CS7 and a first slit row RW1 to a fourth slit row RW4. In addition, a plurality of vertical bars VBAR are provided between the first slit column CS1 to the seventh slit column CS7, and a plurality of horizontal bars HBAR are provided between the first slit row RW1 to the fourth slit row RW4. The number of slit rows, slits, and bars is not limited thereto.

[0148] The first slit column CS1 to the seventh slit column CS7 may be sequentially arranged in the first direction DR1. The first slit column CS1 to the seventh slit column CS7 refer to columns in which the slits SLT are arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0149] The first slit row RW1 to the fourth slit row RW4 may be arranged in the second direction DR2. The first slit row RW1 to the fourth slit row RW4 refer to rows in which a first row of slits SLT1 to a fourth row of slits SLT4 are respectively provided. For example, the second slit row RW2 may at least partially overlap the first slit row RW1 in the first direction DR1, and at least another part of the second slit row RW2 may overlap the third slit row RW3 in the first direction DR1. The first slit row RW1 and the third slit row RW3 may not overlap each other in the first direction DR1. In addition, the third slit row RW3 may at least partially overlap the second slit row RW2 in the first direction DR1, and at least another part of the third slit row RW3 may overlap the fourth slit row RW4 in the first direction DR1. The second slit row RW2 and the fourth slit row RW4 may not overlap each other in the first direction DR1. For example, the plurality of slits SLT may have a staggered arrangement in the first direction DR1, where some of the plurality of slits SLT are not aligned with each other.

[0150] A plurality of vertical bars VBAR can be respectively disposed between adjacent slit columns among the first slit column CS1 to the seventh slit column CS7. A plurality of horizontal bars HBAR can be disposed between adjacent slit rows among the first slit row RW1 to the fourth slit row RW4. For example, some of the horizontal bars HBAR can be disposed between the first slit row RW1 and the third slit row RW3 in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6. Additionally, some other horizontal bars HBAR can be disposed between the second slit row RW2 and the fourth slit row RW4 in the first slit column CS1, the third slit column CS3, the fifth slit column CS5, and the seventh slit column CS7.

[0151] The first row slit SLT1 can be disposed in the first slit row RW1. For example, relative to the plurality of horizontal bars HBAR disposed between the first slit row RW1 and the third slit row RW3, the first row slit SLT1 can be positioned closer to the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the second direction DR2. The first row slit SLT1 can be disposed in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6.

[0152] The second row slit SLT2 can be disposed in the second slit row RW2. For example, relative to the plurality of horizontal bars HBAR disposed between the second slit row RW2 and the fourth slit row RW4, the second row slit SLT2 can be positioned closer to the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the second direction DR2. The second row slit SLT2 can be disposed in the first slit column CS1, the third slit column CS3, the fifth slit column CS5, and the seventh slit column CS7.

[0153] The third row slit SLT3 can be disposed in the third slit row RW3. For example, relative to the plurality of horizontal bars HBAR disposed between the first slit row RW1 and the third slit row RW3, the third row slit SLT3 can be positioned farther from the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the second direction DR2. The third row slit SLT3 can be disposed in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6.

[0154] The fourth row slit SLT4 can be disposed in the fourth slit row RW4. For example, relative to the plurality of horizontal bars HBAR disposed between the second slit row RW2 and the fourth slit row RW4, the fourth row slit SLT4 can be positioned farther from the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the second direction DR2. The fourth row slit SLT4 can be disposed in the first slit column CS1, the third slit column CS3, the fifth slit column CS5, and the seventh slit column CS7.

[0155] In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the first row of slits SLT1 may overlap with the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710 in the first direction DR1. For example, the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710 may include a portion where no rod is provided. As Figure 8 shown, in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6, no rod is provided at the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710, but a plurality of slits SLT may be provided. Therefore, the folding stress during folding of the display device 10 can be reduced.

[0156] In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filler FIL may be at least partially disposed in the first row of slits SLT1. The filler FIL can be used to prevent particles from penetrating into the first row of slits SLT1. The filler FIL can absorb external shocks. For example, the filler FIL may include, but is not limited to, polyurethane resin, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, silicone resin, or an inorganic sealant.

[0157] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler FIL may be only partially disposed in the first row of slits SLT1. For example, the filler FIL may be disposed adjacent to the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710 in the first row of slits SLT1. The filler FIL may have a first length L1 starting from the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710. The first length L1 may be equal to the first distance D1 described below with reference to Figure 9 (see Figure 9 ). The first length L1 and the first distance D1 will be described later with reference to Figure 9 (see Figure 9 ).

[0158] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end portion FILa of the filler FIL may be a substantially flat surface. The end portion FILa of the filler FIL may coincide with the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710. For example, the end portion FILa of the filler FIL may be located in the same plane or a substantially the same plane as the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710, and the end portion 710a of the folding portion 710 is in the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3.

[0159] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the modulus of the filler FIL may be relatively low. For example, the modulus of the filler FIL may be approximately 15 MPa or less. For example, the modulus of the filler FIL may be approximately 8 MPa to approximately 12 MPa. According to this embodiment, since the modulus of the filler FIL is approximately 15 MPa or less, the stress applied to the plurality of slits SLT and the plurality of rods BAR can be reduced when the display device 10 is being folded and is being folded.

[0160] As used herein, the modulus means Young's modulus and is measured in accordance with, for example, ASTM D638 or ASTM D3039.

[0161] Since the display device 10 according to this embodiment includes the filler FIL provided in the first row slit SLT1, particles can be prevented from penetrating into the first row slit SLT1. Accordingly, the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0162] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filler FIL may not be provided in row slits other than the first row slit SLT1. For example, the filler FIL may not be provided in the second row slit SLT2 to the fourth row slit SLT4. In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filler FIL is not provided in row slits other than the first row slit SLT1, thereby reducing the folding stress when the display device 10 is folded.

[0163] The filler FIL may not be provided in the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. For example, the filler FIL may not be provided at the ends of the first non-folding portion 720 and / or the second non-folding portion 730. By doing so, due to the width of the filler FIL, the width of the panel support member increases in the second direction DR2, thereby preventing a dead zone.

[0164] Although the area A Figure 7 has been described above, it should be understood that the filler FIL may be similarly provided at Figure 7 the lower end of the folding portion 710. For example, the filler FIL may be applied to the lower end of the folding portion 710 in substantially the same manner as the upper end of the folding portion 710.

[0165] Figure 9 is a plan view illustrating a display panel and a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] Combined Figure 7 and Figure 8 referring to Figure 9 , the display panel 500 may be smaller than the panel support member 700. For example, the ends of the panel support member 700 may protrude beyond the ends of the display panel 500 in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0167] For example, the end 710a of the folding portion 710 of the panel support member 700 may protrude beyond the end of the display panel 500. For example, the end 710a of the folding portion 710 of the panel support member 700 may protrude a first distance D1 beyond the end of the display panel 500. A portion of the first row of slits SLT1 may be covered by the display panel 500, and the filler FIL provided in the portion of the first row of slits SLT1 may not be covered by the display panel 500. Accordingly, at least some of the first row of slits SLT1 in the panel support member 700 may not be covered by the display panel 500 and may be exposed to the outside.

[0168] As described above with reference to Figure 8 the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filler FIL may be provided adjacent to the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the first row of slits SLT1. The filler FIL may have a first length L1 starting from the end 710a of the folding portion 710. The first length L1 may be equal to or substantially equal to the first distance D1.

[0169] The filler FIL may be provided in slits SLT that do not overlap the display panel 500 in the third direction DR3. For example, the filler FIL may be provided only in slits SLT that do not overlap the display panel 500 in the third direction DR3. The filler FIL may be partially provided in the slits SLT such that they do not overlap the display panel 500.

[0170] In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the folding stress when the display device 10 is folded may be reduced by partially providing the filler FIL in the slits SLT such that they do not overlap the display panel 500.

[0171] Hereinafter, a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the following description, the same or similar elements will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted or briefly described.

[0172] Figure 10 is a plan view illustrating a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 is Figure 10 an enlarged view of region B of

[0173] According to Figure 10 and Figure 11 the display device 10 according to the embodiment of Figure 7 differs from the display device 10 according to the embodiment of

[0174] For example, in the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filling material FIL can be entirely disposed in the first row of slits SLT1. For example, the filling material FIL can extend in the second direction DR2 in each of the first row of slits SLT1. The filling material FIL can be used to completely fill each of the first row of slits SLT1. The filling material FIL can have a second length L2 starting from the end 710a of the folding portion 710. The second length L2 can be equal to or substantially equal to the length of each of the first row of slits SLT1 in the second direction DR2.

[0175] In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filling material FIL may not be disposed in the row slits other than the first row of slits SLT1. For example, the filling material FIL may not be disposed in the second row of slits SLT2 to the fourth row of slits SLT4. In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, the filling material FIL is not disposed in the row slits other than the first row of slits SLT1, thereby reducing the folding stress when the display device 10 is folded or being folded.

[0176] Figure 12 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 13 is Figure 12 an enlarged view of region C of

[0177] According to Figure 12 and Figure 13 the embodiment of the display device 10 according to Figure 7 , Figure 10 etc. is different from the display device 10 according to the embodiment of

[0178] that the end FILa of the filling material FIL protrudes from the end 710a of the folding portion 710.

[0179] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end FILa (i.e., the protruding portion PRT) of the filling material FIL can have a rounded corner shape. As described above, in the display device 10 according to this embodiment, since the modulus of the filling material FIL is relatively low, the end FILa of the filling material FIL can have a rounded corner shape due to surface tension. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0180] Although in the drawings, all ends of the end FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 protrude from the end 710a of the folding portion 710, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, only some ends of the end FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 may protrude beyond the end 710a of the folding portion 710. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, only some ends of the end FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 may protrude beyond the end 710a of the folding portion 710, and the other ends FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 may be coplanar with the end 710a of the folding portion 710.

[0181] Figure 14 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 is Figure 14 an enlarged view of region D of

[0182] According to Figure 14 and Figure 15 the embodiment of, the display device 10 is different from the display device 10 according to the embodiments of Figure 7 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 etc. in that the end FILa of the filler FIL is recessed from the end 710a of the folding portion 710.

[0183] For example, the end FILa of the filler FIL may be away from the end 710a of the folding portion 710 and recessed inwardly of the folding portion 710. For example, the filler FIL may include a recess RCS recessed from the end 710a of the folding portion 710. In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, if the amount of the filler FIL is small or the adhesion between the filler FIL and the plurality of bars BAR is high, the recess RCS may be formed. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the end FILa (i.e., the recess RCS) of the filler FIL may have a rounded corner shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0184] Although in the drawings all ends of the end FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 are recessed from the end 710a of the folding portion 710, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, only some ends of the end FILa of the filler FIL disposed in the first row of slits SLT1 may be recessed from the end 710a of the folding portion 710.

[0185] Figure 16 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17 is Figure 16 an enlarged view of region E of

[0186] According to Figure 16 and Figure 17 The display device 10 according to the embodiment of Figure 7 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 etc., is different from the display device 10 according to the embodiments of

[0187] For example, the filler FIL may include a first part FIL1 and a second part FIL2. In the following description, for ease of explanation, the first part FIL1 and the second part FIL2 are described separately, but the first part FIL1 and the second part FIL2 may be physically connected to each other as a single body.

[0188] The first part FIL1 may be disposed in a plurality of slits SLT. For example, the first part FIL1 may be disposed between a plurality of bars BAR in a first direction DR1. An end FIL1a of the first part FIL1 may be located on the same line as an end 710a of the folding portion 710 in a second direction DR2.

[0189] The second part FIL2 may be positioned outside the folding portion 710. For example, the second part FIL2 may be disposed more externally than the first slit row RW1 in the second direction DR2. The second part FIL2 may be positioned more externally than the plurality of bars BAR and the plurality of slits SLT disposed in the first slit row RW1 in the second direction DR2. For example, the second part FIL2 is disposed outside the panel support member 700.

[0190] The second part FIL2 may extend in the first direction DR1. The second part FIL2 may be in direct contact with the end 710a of the folding portion 710. For example, the second part FIL2 may be in direct contact with the end 710a of the folding portion 710 in the first slit column CS1, the third slit column CS3, the fifth slit column CS5, and the seventh slit column CS7, and may be in direct contact with the first part FIL1 in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6.

[0191] Since the display device 10 according to this embodiment further includes the second part FIL2, the stress applied to the folding portion 710 can be reduced.

[0192] Figure 18 is a plan view showing a panel support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 is Figure 18 an enlarged view of region F of

[0193] According toFigure 18 and Figure 19 The display device 10 according to an embodiment of Figure 16 etc. is different from the display device 10 according to an embodiment of

[0194] For example, the second part FIL2 of the filler FIL may further include the recess RCS.

[0195] The recess RCS may overlap with the first part FIL1 in the second direction DR2. The recess RCS may overlap with the first row of slits SLT1 provided in the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6 in the second direction DR2.

[0196] In the display device 10 according to this embodiment, if the amount of the filler FIL is small or the adhesion between the filler FIL and the plurality of rods BAR is high, the recess RCS may be formed. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the recess RCS may have a rounded corner shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0197] Although in the drawings, the recess RCS is formed in all of the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and the sixth slit column CS6, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the recess RCS may be formed in only some of the second slit column CS2, the fourth slit column CS4, and / or the sixth slit column CS6.

[0198] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments of the present disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that: include: A display panel, the display panel comprising a folding area; as well as a panel supporting layer, the panel supporting layer being disposed on the display panel and comprising a folding portion overlapping the folding area, Wherein, the panel support layer comprises: one or more rods and one or more slits, the one or more rods and the one or more slits being arranged alternately with each other in the folded portion; and a filler disposed at least partially in the one or more slits, and The filler is disposed in a first row of slits located at both ends of the folded portion among the one or more slits.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that The filler is disposed adjacent to the end of the folded portion, and The end of the filler is a flat surface.

3. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The end of the filler and the end of the folded portion are located on the same plane.

4. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that The end portion of the folded portion of the panel supporting layer protrudes beyond an end portion of the display panel.

5. The display device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The end portion of the folded portion includes a first region protruding beyond the end portion of the display panel, wherein the first row of slits at least partially overlaps the first region, and The filler is only arranged in the first region.

6. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The filler comprises: a first portion disposed in the first row of slits; and a second portion, the second portion being disposed outside the first row of slits, and wherein the second portion overlaps the one or more slits and the one or more rods.

7. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The end portion of the filler includes a protrusion that protrudes beyond the end portion of the folded portion.

8. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The end portion of the filler has a rounded shape.

9. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first row of slits includes a plurality of slits arranged in a first direction different from a direction in which the folded portion extends, and The filler is disposed in all of the plurality of slits in the first row of slits.

10. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: An end portion of the filler includes a recessed portion recessed from the end portion of the folded portion.

Images