Display device manufacturing apparatus

Abstract

The utility model relates to a display device manufacturing apparatus. The display device manufacturing apparatus includes: a stage on which a display panel including a front surface as a light emitting surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface is provided in such a manner that the rear surface is exposed; and a jig provided on the rear surface of the display panel on the stage, in which a jig opening corresponding to the display panel is defined in the jig. The jig includes: a jig body in which the jig opening is defined by an inside surface of the jig body, where the jig body has a size smaller than a size of the display panel; the support component is coupled to the clamp body, is arranged above the clamp opening and is crossed with the clamp opening; and a block coupled to the support member and disposed inside the clamp opening.

Description

[0001] This application claims all rights and interests derived from the priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0092338, filed on July 17, 2023, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates herein to a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method, and more particularly, to a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method including a jig. Background Art

[0003] Various display devices for multimedia devices (such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, and game consoles) are being developed. The display device may include various functional layers to provide a color image with excellent quality to a user.

[0004] Recently, research is being conducted on thin display devices to implement various types of display devices, such as a display device including a curved surface, a rollable display device, or a foldable display device. In addition, a display device with a thin thickness can be implemented by reducing the number of functional layers and by including a functional layer containing various functions. Summary of the Utility Model

[0005] In order to implement a display device with a thin thickness, it is desirable to ensure impact resistance, because a display device with a thin thickness may be easily damaged by an impact occurring during the manufacture of the display device. Therefore, research is being conducted on the structure of a display device that has both a thin thickness and strong impact resistance.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a display device manufacturing apparatus and a display device manufacturing method using the display device manufacturing apparatus, and by using the display device manufacturing apparatus, a cover panel having a hole defined therein can be manufactured by using a jig including a support member and a block.

[0007] An embodiment of the present utility model provides a display device manufacturing apparatus, the display device manufacturing apparatus including: a stage, on which a display panel including a front surface as a light emitting surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface is provided in a manner of exposing the rear surface; and a jig, the jig being provided on the rear surface of the display panel on the stage, wherein a jig opening corresponding to the display panel is defined in the jig, and the jig includes: a jig body, in which the jig opening is defined by an inner surface of the jig body, and wherein the jig body has a size smaller than that of the display panel; a support member, the support member being coupled to the jig body, disposed above the jig opening and intersecting with the jig opening; and a block, the block being coupled to the support member and disposed inside the jig opening.

[0008] In an embodiment, the support member may intersect with the jig opening along a direction in which the width of the jig opening is relatively short.

[0009] In an embodiment, the support member may include: a support body, the support body overlapping with the jig opening and intersecting with the jig opening; and an end portion, the end portion extending from opposite ends of the support body and being coupled to the jig body.

[0010] In an embodiment, a coupling groove may be defined in an upper surface of the jig body, and the end portion of the support member may be detachably coupled to the coupling groove.

[0011] In an embodiment, a plurality of coupling grooves may be defined, and the end portion of the support member may be detachably coupled to two corresponding coupling grooves among the plurality of coupling grooves.

[0012] In an embodiment, the display device manufacturing apparatus may further include a coating layer provided on the inner surface of the jig body and on an outer surface of the block.

[0013] In an embodiment, a plurality of the support members may be provided, a plurality of the blocks may be provided, and at least one of the plurality of blocks may be coupled to each of the plurality of support members.

[0014] In an embodiment, the support member may intersect with the jig opening along a direction in which the width of the jig opening is relatively long.

[0015] In an embodiment, a lower surface of the jig body and a lower surface of the block may be disposed on the same plane.

[0016] In an embodiment, the support member and the block may be detachably coupled to each other.

[0017] In an embodiment, a plurality of coupling slots may be defined in the support member along an extending direction of the support member, and the block may be detachably coupled to at least one of the plurality of coupling slots.

[0018] In an embodiment, the display panel may include a signal transmission region provided on the rear surface and overlapping with the electronic module, and a non-transmission region adjacent to the signal transmission region, and the block may be disposed at a position corresponding to the signal transmission region.

[0019] In an embodiment, a thickness of the block may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the jig body.

[0020] In an embodiment, the block may have a constant width along a thickness direction.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a display device may include: providing a display panel on a stage in a manner that exposes a rear surface of the display panel; adhering a jig to the rear surface of the display panel, a jig opening corresponding to the display panel being defined in the jig; providing a coating liquid to an interior of the jig opening; curing the coating liquid to form a cover panel directly provided on the rear surface; and removing the jig and the stage, wherein the jig includes: a jig body, the jig opening being defined by an inner surface of the jig body, wherein the jig body has a size smaller than a size of the display panel; a support member, the support member being coupled to the jig body, disposed above the jig opening and crossing the jig opening; and a block, the block being coupled to the support member and disposed inside the jig opening.

[0022] In an embodiment, the jig may further include a coating layer provided on the inner surface of the jig body and an outer surface of the block, and the coating layer may include fluorine.

[0023] In an embodiment, the coating liquid may include a matrix resin and a plurality of fillers dispersed in the matrix resin.

[0024] In an embodiment, a height of the coating liquid may be less than a height of the block.

[0025] In an embodiment, a hole corresponding to the block may be formed in the cover panel.

[0026] In an embodiment, the coating liquid may have a viscosity of 10,000 centipoise or less. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] By describing embodiments of the present invention in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the above and other features of the present invention will become more apparent, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0029] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 1 of;

[0030] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 1 of;

[0031] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 1 of;

[0032] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a jig according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0033] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 3 of;

[0034] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a jig according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0035] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 5 of;

[0036] Figures 7A to 7I is a cross-sectional view and a perspective view showing some operations of a display device manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0037] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0038] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0039] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present utility model; and

[0040] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0041] The present utility model will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are shown. However, the present utility model may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present utility model to those skilled in the art.

[0042] In this specification, it will be understood that when an element (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, it can be directly disposed / connected / coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be provided therebetween.

[0043] Like reference numerals or symbols always refer to like elements. In the figures, the thickness, proportions, and dimensions of the elements are exaggerated for effective description of the technical content.

[0044] Although terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the present utility model. The singular form includes the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0045] In addition, terms such as "below", "lower", "above", and "upper" may be used to describe the relationship of elements shown in the figures. It will be understood that these terms have relative concepts and are described based on the orientation depicted in the figures.

[0046] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, "a", "an", "the", and "at least one" do not denote a limitation of quantity and are intended to include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, a reference to "an" element in the claims following a reference to "the" element includes one element and a plurality of elements. For example, "an element" has the same meaning as "at least one element" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "At least one" should not be construed 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 associated listed items. It will also be understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", or "includes" and / or "including", or "contains" and / or "having" specify the presence of the stated features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0047] Taking into account the measurements under discussion and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system), as used herein, "about" or "approximate" includes the stated value and means within an acceptable deviation of the particular value determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "about" may mean within one or more standard deviations or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the stated value.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In addition, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field of this document and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0049] Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations, which are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations in the shape of the illustrations due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are anticipated. Thus, the embodiments described herein need not be construed as limited to the specific-shaped regions shown herein, but include shape deviations resulting from, for example, manufacturing. For example, regions illustrated or described as flat may typically have rough and / or non-linear features. Additionally, regions shown may be rounded. Thus, the regions shown in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to show the exact shape of the regions and are also not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present utility model will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0052] Referring to Figure 1 , embodiments of a display device manufacturing apparatus utilized to manufacture a display device DD (see Figure 8 ) may include a jig JG and a stage ST. In addition to the jig JG and the stage ST, the display device manufacturing apparatus may further include other multifunctional components.

[0053] The stage ST may be a flat plate on which a display panel DP is provided. However, the shape of the stage ST is not limited thereto, and any component on which the display panel DP can be stably placed may be provided for the stage ST. In an embodiment, for example, a seat groove in which the display panel DP is placed may be defined in the stage ST. The stage ST may include a suction device to fix the display panel DP to the stage ST.

[0054] The display panel DP can be provided on the stage ST in such a manner that the rear surface DBS opposite to the front surface DFS of the display panel DP is exposed. That is to say, the front surface DFS, as the light-emitting surface of the display panel DP, can be placed facing the upper surface of the stage ST.

[0055] The jig JG can include a jig body BB, a support member BR, and a block IS. The jig JG can be provided on the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP, and a jig opening HO corresponding to the display panel DP can be defined in the jig JG. The jig JG includes the support member BR and the block IS, and thus it is possible to easily form a hole HH (see Figure 9 ) for covering the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ), and the cover panel CM is applied to the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP.

[0056] The jig body BB can include a lower surface LS and an upper surface US. The lower surface LS is defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1, and the upper surface US is defined as a plane opposite to the lower surface LS in a third direction DR3. The lower surface LS and the upper surface US of the jig body BB can be parallel to each other. The third direction DR3 can be defined as a direction extending perpendicularly to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Hereinafter, in this specification, the expression "when observed on a plane" or "when observed in a plan view" means the state when observed in the third direction DR3.

[0057] In this specification, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 can be orthogonal to each other, and the third direction DR3 can be the normal direction of the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In this specification, the phrase "on a plane" can mean the situation when observed on the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, or when observed in the thickness direction in a plan view, where the thickness direction can mean the third direction DR3 which is the normal direction of the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0058] The jig opening HO can be defined by the inner surface (inner side surface) SS of the jig body BB. The inner surface SS can connect the upper surface US and the lower surface LS of the jig JG. The inner surface SS can be provided between the upper surface US and the lower surface LS.

[0059] The inner surface SS may include a first surface SS1 extending in a first direction DR1, a second surface SS2 extending in the first direction DR1 and opposite to the first surface SS1 in a second direction DR2, a third surface SS3 extending in the second direction DR2, and a fourth surface SS4 extending in the second direction DR2 and opposite to the third surface SS3 in the first direction DR1. The first surface SS1, the second surface SS2, the third surface SS3, and the fourth surface SS4 may define a jig opening HO, or the jig opening HO may be surrounded by the first surface SS1, the second surface SS2, the third surface SS3, and the fourth surface SS4. The jig opening HO may have a size smaller than the size of the display panel DP. The jig opening HO may have one of various shapes. Figure 1 An embodiment is shown in which the jig opening HO has a shape in which a part of the lower surface of a quadrilateral shape protrudes in a plane. However, this is shown as an example of the shape, and various modifications may be made to the shape of the jig opening HO.

[0060] In such an embodiment, the jig body BB is provided with the jig opening HO formed in the opening of the jig body BB, and thus when the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ) is formed on the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP, the jig body BB can be used as an opening mask. Thus, the thickness of the provided coating liquid can be changed by using the opening mask.

[0061] The support member BR may be coupled to the jig body BB, disposed above the jig opening HO and crossing the jig opening HO. The support member BR may cross the jig opening HO in the second direction DR2 in which the width of the jig opening HO is small or relatively short. In this case, the length of the support member BR is shortened, and thus the bending deformation caused by gravity can be substantially reduced and effectively prevented.

[0062] A plurality of support members BR may be provided, and a block IS may be coupled to each of the plurality of support members BR. The support member BR may include a first support member BR1, a second support member BR2, and a third support member BR3. In a plane, the first support member BR1 may cross the jig opening HO in the second direction DR2 in the upper part of the jig opening HO. In a plane, the second support member BR2 may cross the jig opening HO in the second direction DR2 in a portion lower than the first support member BR1. In a plane, the third support member BR3 may cross the jig opening HO in the second direction DR2 in the lower part of the jig opening HO. However, the number of the support members BR is not limited thereto, and may be changed based on the number of holes HH (see Figure 9 ) provided for the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ).

[0063] The block IS can be coupled to the support member BR and disposed inside the jig opening HO. The block IS can form a hole HH (see Figure 9 ) that covers the panel CM (see Figure 9 ). A plurality of the blocks IS can be provided, and the provided blocks IS can each be coupled to the support member BR.

[0064] The block IS can include a first block IS1, a second block IS2, and a third block IS3. The first block IS1 can be coupled to the first support member BR1 and disposed at the center of the first support member BR. The first block IS1 has a cylindrical shape and can be disposed at a position corresponding to a sensor sensing area SSA (see Figure 9 ) described later. The second block IS2 can be coupled to the second support member BR2 and is disposed to be offset to one side from the center of the second support member BR2. The second block IS2 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and can be disposed at a position corresponding to a camera sensing area CSA (see Figure 9 ) described later. The third block IS3 can be coupled to the third support member BR3 and disposed at the center of the third support member BR3. The third block IS3 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and can be disposed at a position corresponding to a joining area DSA (see Figure 9 ) described later.

[0065] Figures 2A to 2C is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the jig JG according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I' of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II' of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III' of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Referring to Figure 2A , the inner surface SS of the jig JG can define the jig opening HO. The first block IS1 can be disposed inside the jig opening HO, and the first support member BR1 can pass above the jig opening HO. The first width WD1 of the jig opening HO along the second direction DR2 can be smaller than the width of the display panel DP (see Figure 1 ) along the second direction DR2.

[0067] The first support member BR1 may include a first support body CBR1 and a first end portion EBR1. The first support body CBR1 may overlap with and cross the jig opening HO. The first support body CBR1 may have a bar shape extending in the second direction DR2. The first end portion EBR1 may extend from both ends of the first support body CBR1 and be coupled to the jig body BB. The first end portion EBR1 may be bent at one side end of the first support body CBR1 and be coupled to the upper surface US of the jig body BB.

[0068] The lower surface LS of the jig body BB and the lower surface of the first block IS1 may be disposed on the same plane BBL. Thus, when the jig JG is adhered to the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP (see Figure 7D ), the jig JG may be adhered to the rear surface DBS without a gap. Figure 7D )

[0069] The width WIS1 of the first block IS1 may be constant along the third direction DR3 which is the thickness direction. Thus, when a hole HH (see Figure 9 ) is formed in the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ) described later, a hole HH with a constant width may be formed in the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ). The thickness D2 of the first block IS1 in the third direction DR3 is equal to or greater than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB in the third direction DR3. In the case where the thickness D2 of the first block IS1 is less than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB, when a coating liquid is supplied to the jig opening HO, the coating liquid may be present on the upper surface of the first block IS1. Thus, the hole HH (see Figure 9 ) passing through the cover panel CM (see Figure 9 ) may not be formed.

[0070] The coating layer CT may be disposed on the inner surface (inner side surface) SS of the jig body BB and the outer surface (outer side surface) of the first block IS1. The coating layer CT may be disposed on the inner surface SS and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB. The coating layer CT may be disposed on the outer surface and the lower surface of the first block IS1. The coating layer CT may contain fluorine. The coating layer CT may be a fluorine coating layer composed of fluorine. The coating layer CT contains fluorine, and thus the jig JG can be easily removed when the jig JG is removed from the display panel DP (see Figure 7I ).

[0071] Refer to Figure 2B , the second block IS2 may be disposed inside the jig opening HO, and the second support member BR2 may pass above the jig opening HO.

[0072] The second support member BR2 may include a second support body CBR2 and a second end portion EBR2. The description of the configuration of the second support body CBR2 and the second end portion EBR2 may be the same as or similar to the description of Figure 2A the first support body CBR1 and the first end portion EBR1 shown in

[0073] The lower surface LS of the jig body BB and the lower surface of the second block IS2 may be disposed on the same plane BBL. The width WIS2 of the second block IS2 may be constant along a third direction DR3 which is the thickness direction. The second block IS2 may be disposed to be offset to the left from the center of the second support body CBR2. The coating layer CT may be disposed on the inner surface SS and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB and on the outer surface and the lower surface of the second block IS2.

[0074] Referring to Figure 2C , a third block IS3 may be disposed inside the jig opening HO, and a third support member BR3 may pass above the jig opening HO.

[0075] The third support member BR3 may include a third support body CBR3 and a third end portion EBR3. The configuration or features of the second support body CBR2 and the second end portion EBR2 may be the same as or similar to the configuration or features of the first support body CBR1 and the first end portion EBR1 described above with reference to Figure 2A .

[0076] The lower surface LS of the jig body BB and the lower surface of the third block IS3 may be disposed on the same plane BBL. The width WIS3 of the third block IS3 may be constant along a third direction DR3 which is the thickness direction. The third block IS3 may be disposed at the center of the third support body CBR3. The coating layer CT may be disposed on the inner surface SS and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB and on the outer surface and the lower surface of the third block IS3.

[0077] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a jig according to an embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, for ease of description, any repeated detailed description of elements that are the same as or similar to the elements described above with reference to Figures 1 to 2C will be omitted.

[0078] Referring to Figure 3 , in an embodiment, a first coupling groove CHO1 and a second coupling groove CHO2 may be defined in the upper surface US of the jig body BB. The end portion of the support member BR may be detachably coupled to the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2. In such an embodiment, since the support member BR and the jig body BB are detachably coupled to each other, various shaped cover panels CM (see Figure 9 ) can be manufactured by using the jig JG.

[0079] In an embodiment, the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2 may be provided in plural and arranged on the upper surface US along the first direction DR1. Alternatively, the plural first coupling grooves CHO1 and the second coupling grooves CHO2 may be arranged along the second direction DR2. In such an embodiment, the support member BR may extend along the first direction DR1.

[0080] The coupling grooves CHO1 and CHO2 may include the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2. The first coupling groove CHO1 may be provided in a part of the upper surface US adjacent to the first surface SS1. The first coupling groove CHO1 may be provided in plural. The plural first coupling grooves CHO1 may be arranged on the first surface SS1 along the first direction DR1.

[0081] The second coupling groove CHO2 may be provided in a part of the upper surface US adjacent to the second surface SS2. The second coupling groove CHO2 may be provided in plural. The plural second coupling grooves CHO2 may be arranged on the second surface SS2 along the first direction DR1.

[0082] The end portions of each of the first support member BR1, the second support member BR2, and the third support member BR3 may be detachably coupled to the corresponding first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2. The positions of each of the first support member BR1, the second support member BR2, and the third support member BR3 in a plane may be changed based on the positions of the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling operation CHO2 to which they are coupled. Accordingly, in the plane, the positions where the blocks IS1, IS2, and IS3 are respectively coupled to the first support member BR1, the second support member BR2, and the third support member BR3 may be changed.

[0083] The support member BR may be detachably coupled to the block IS. Subsequently, reference will be made to Figure 4 Provide a description thereof.

[0084] Figure 4 Is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV' according to an embodiment of the present utility model. In Figure 3 In, a cross-sectional view of the first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 will be described, but it will be understood that the content or features of the first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 to be described may be similarly applied to the second support member BR2 and the third support member BR3, as well as the second block IS2 and the third block IS3. Figure 4 In, a cross-sectional view of the first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 will be described, but it will be understood that the content or features of the first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 to be described may be similarly applied to the second support member BR2 and the third support member BR3, as well as the second block IS2 and the third block IS3.

[0085] Reference Figure 4, in an embodiment, a first end portion EBR1 of a first support member BR1 may be detachably coupled to a first coupling groove CHO1 and a second coupling groove CHO2. The first end portion EBR1 may be coupled to the corresponding first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2. A position of the first coupling groove CHO1 coupled to the first end portion EBR1 in a plane along a first direction DR1 may be the same as a position of the second coupling groove CHO2 in the plane along the first direction DR1. In this case, any detachable coupling method may be used as a method of coupling the first end portion EBR1 to the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2. In an embodiment, for example, the first end portion EBR1 may be detachably coupled to the first coupling groove CHO1 and the second coupling groove CHO2 by a screw fastening method.

[0086] The first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 may be detachably coupled to each other. A support member coupling groove BHO1 may be defined in a lower surface of a first support body CBR1 of the first support member BR1. A plurality of support member coupling grooves BHO1 may be provided, and the plurality of support member coupling grooves BHO1 may be arranged along a second direction DR2 which is an extending direction of the first support member BR1. The first block IS1 may be detachably coupled to at least one of the support member coupling grooves BHO1. Any detachable coupling method may be used as a method of coupling the first block IS1 to the support member coupling groove BHO1. In an embodiment, for example, the first block IS1 and the support member coupling groove BHO1 may be detachably coupled to each other by a screw fastening method.

[0087] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a jig according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Reference Figure 5 , in an embodiment, the support member BR may cross the jig opening HO along a direction in which the width of the jig opening HO is large or relatively long. The support member BR may cross the jig opening HO along the first direction DR1. The support member BR may include a material having sufficient durability and rigidity to prevent bending deformation caused by gravity.

[0089] A plurality of support members BR may be provided, and at least one block IS may be coupled to each of the plurality of support members BR. The support members BR may include a first support member BR1 and a second support member BR2. The first support member BR1 may be disposed at the center of the jig opening HO in a plane and extend in a first direction DR1. The second support member BR2 may be disposed to deviate to the left from the center of the jig opening HO in a plane and extend in the first direction DR1. A plurality of blocks IS1 and IS3 may be coupled to the first support member BR1 and a second block IS2 may be coupled to the second support member BR2.

[0090] Both the first block IS1 and the third block IS3 may be disposed at the center of the jig opening HO in a plane. The first block IS1 may be disposed in the upper part of the jig opening HO in a plane, and the third block IS3 may be disposed in the lower part of the jig opening HO in a plane. Both the first block IS1 and the third block IS3 may be coupled to the first support member BR1.

[0091] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V' according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 5 of the.

[0092] Refer to Figure 6 , in the embodiment, the first block IS1 may be coupled to one side of the first support CBR1, and the third block IS3 may be coupled to the other side of the first support CBR1. The width WD2 of the jig opening HO along the first direction DR1 may be smaller than the width of the display panel DP (see Figure 1 ) along the first direction DR1. In this way, a plurality of blocks IS1 and IS3 are coupled to a first support member BR1, and thus the number of support members BR (see Figure 5 ) for the jig JG (see Figure 5 ) can be reduced.

[0093] Figures 7A to 7I is a cross-sectional view and a perspective view showing some operations of a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0094] Refer to Figure 7A , in the embodiment of the method for manufacturing a display device (i.e., a method for manufacturing a display device, etc.), the display panel DP may be provided on the stage ST in a manner that exposes the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP. The front surface DFS of the display panel DP may face the upper surface of the stage ST.

[0095] Refer to Figure 7B and Figure 7C, a jig JG that defines a jig opening HO corresponding to a display panel DP can be adhered to the rear surface DBS. Since the size of the jig opening HO is smaller than the size of the rear surface DBS, only a part of the rear surface DBS can be exposed to the outside.

[0096] Figure 7D can be a cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 7C line VI-VI'. Refer to Figure 7D , the jig JG can be adhered to the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP. The lower surface LS of the jig body BB coated with the coating layer CT and the lower surface of the first block IS1 coated with the coating layer CT can be in contact with the rear surface DBS. The width WD1 of the jig opening HO along the second direction DR2 can be smaller than the width WD3 of the display panel DP along the second direction DR2. The upper part of the jig opening HO can be open, and the side and lower parts of the jig opening HO can be surrounded by the jig body BB and the rear surface DBS respectively. The thickness D2 of the first block IS1 along the third direction DR3 is equal to or greater than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB along the third direction DR3.

[0097] Refer to Figure 7E , in a state where the jig JG is adhered to the rear surface DBS, a coating liquid COA can be provided into the interior of the jig opening HO. The coating liquid COA can be provided only into the interior of the jig opening HO. The provided coating liquid COA can fill a part of the jig opening HO. The coating liquid COA can have a viscosity of about 10,000 centipoise (cP) or less. If the coating liquid COA has a viscosity greater than about 10,000 centipoise (cP), the coating liquid COA may not be uniformly applied to the interior of the jig opening HO.

[0098] Figure 7F can be a cross-sectional view taken along the Figure 7E line VII-VII'. In Figure 7F , the first support member BR1 and the first block IS1 are shown, but the features described here with reference to Figure 7F can be similarly applied to the second support member BR2 and the third support member BR3 and the second block IS2 and the third block IS3. Refer to Figure 7F , a coating liquid COA can be provided into the interior of the jig opening HO. The height D3 of the provided coating liquid COA can be smaller than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB along the third direction DR3 and the thickness D2 of the first block IS1 along the third direction DR3.

[0099] If the thickness D2 of the first piece IS1 is less than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB, there is a possibility that the coating liquid COA also exists on the upper surface of the first piece IS1 depending on the amount of the coating liquid COA. Therefore, in the embodiment, the thickness D2 of the first piece IS1 is set to be equal to or greater than the thickness D1 of the jig body BB so that the coating liquid COA can be effectively prevented from remaining on the upper surface of the first piece IS1. Since there is no coating liquid COA in a part occupied by the first piece IS1, this part can become the hole HH (see Figure 9 ) in the covering panel CM described later (see Figure 9 ).

[0100] The lower surface of the first piece IS1 and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB can be in the same plane. Therefore, the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP and the lower surface of the first piece IS1 can be adhered to each other without any gap, and the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB can be adhered to each other without a gap. Therefore, the coating liquid COA can be effectively prevented from flowing between the rear surface DBS and the lower surface LS of the jig body BB. Further, it is possible to effectively prevent the hole HH (see Figure 9 ) of the covering panel CM (see Figure 9 ) from not being formed due to the coating liquid COA remaining on the lower surface of the first piece IS1.

[0101] The coating liquid COA may include a matrix resin BS' and a plurality of fillers FP dispersed in the matrix resin BS'. The matrix resin BS' may include at least one selected from an acyl polymer, a polyurethane-based polymer, a silicon-based polymer, and an imide-based polymer. The matrix resin BS' may be provided in a liquid state. The matrix resin BS' may include a curable resin. In the embodiment, for example, the matrix resin BS' may include a photocurable resin.

[0102] The plurality of fillers FP may be fillers dispersed in the matrix resin BS'. Each of the plurality of fillers FP may include an organic material or an inorganic material. In the embodiment, for example, each of the plurality of fillers FP may include graphite or metal particles. The plurality of fillers FP may include the same material or different materials. The plurality of fillers FP may be fillers that perform the same function or different functions from each other. Therefore, the formed covering panel CM (see Figure 7I ) can perform various functions such as support, heat dissipation, and shielding of the display device.

[0103] Figure 7H may be a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIII-VIII' of Figure 7G . Referring to Figure 7G and Figure 7H , the coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E) can be cured to form a cover panel CM directly disposed on the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP. In this specification, the phrase "directly disposed" may mean that two components can be disposed in contact with each other without an adhesive member or adhesive layer for bonding therebetween. Light LT can be emitted by using a light irradiation device LL disposed above the upper surface of the opening of the jig opening HO. The emitted light LT can be ultraviolet light.

[0104] A base resin BS' including a photocurable material (see Figure 7F ) can be cured by the emitted light LT to form a base layer BS. Thus, a cover panel CM including the base layer BS and a plurality of fillers FP can be formed.

[0105] Figure 7G and Figure 7H shows an embodiment of curing a coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E ) by photocuring, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E ) can be thermally cured. In such an embodiment, since the coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E ) may volatilize, the coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E ) can be applied to a thickness greater than the target thickness of the cover panel CM. Since the upper surface of the jig JG having the jig opening HO defined therein is open, the thickness of the applied coating liquid COA (see Figure 7E ) can be changed, and thus the curing method can be changed.

[0106] Referring to Figure 7I , the jig JG and the stage ST can be removed from the display panel DP and the cover panel CM formed on the rear surface DBS. In the embodiment, as described above, a coating layer CT including fluorine (see Figure 7H ) is applied to the chuck body BB of the jig JG and the first block IS1, the second block IS2, and the third block IS3, and thus the jig JG can be easily removed from the display panel DP.

[0107] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 and Figure 9 are respectively a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of a display device DD manufactured through a series of processes of Figures 7A to 7I .

[0108] Figure 8An embodiment is shown in which the display device DD is a mobile phone as an example. However, the display device DD is not limited thereto, and may be a small or medium-sized display device, such as a tablet computer, a car navigation system, a game console, a wearable device, or a camera.

[0109] The display device DD may display an image IM through an active area AA-DD. The active area AA-DD may include a flat surface defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The active area AA-DD may also include a curved surface bent from at least one side of the flat surface defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In an embodiment, as Figure 8 shown, the display device DD includes two curved surfaces bent from opposite sides of the flat surface defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, respectively. However, the shape of the active area AA-DD is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, for example, the active area AA-DD may include only a flat surface, or may also include at least two curved surfaces, for example, four curved surfaces bent from four sides, respectively.

[0110] The display device DD may include an active area AA-DD and a peripheral area NAA-DD adjacent to the active area AA-DD. The active area AA-D-D may be a part corresponding to a display area AA (see Figure 9 ) of a display panel DP (see Figure 9 ) described later, and the peripheral area NAA-DD may be a part corresponding to a non-display area NAA (see Figure 9 ) of the display panel DP.

[0111] The peripheral area NAA-DD is an area for blocking light signals, and may be an area provided outside the active area AA-DD and surrounding the active area AA-DD. In an embodiment, the peripheral area NAA-DD may not be provided on the front surface of the display device DD, but may be provided on the side surface of the display device DD. The peripheral area NAA-DD according to the embodiment may be omitted.

[0112] Referring to Figure 9 , the display device DD according to an embodiment may include a window WM, a housing HU, a display module DM, a circuit board DC, and an upper member UM.

[0113] The display device DD according to an embodiment may include a window WM provided on the display panel DP. The window WM provides an outer surface of the display device DD. Although not shown, the window WM includes a substrate base, and may also include functional layers, such as an anti-reflection layer, an anti-fingerprint layer, and a phase control optical layer.

[0114] In a display device DD according to an embodiment, an upper member UM may be disposed between a window WM and a display module DM (e.g., disposed below the window WM and above the display module DM). The upper member UM may include an antireflection layer and an input detection sensor. The antireflection layer reduces external light reflectance. The input detection sensor detects an external input from a user. The upper member UM may further include an adhesive layer that joins the antireflection layer and the input detection sensor.

[0115] In a display device DD according to an embodiment, the display module DM may be disposed below the upper member UM. The display module DM may include a display panel DP and a cover panel CM.

[0116] The display panel DP may include a display area AA in which an image IM is displayed and a non-display area NAA adjacent to the display area AA. That is, the front surface DFS of the display panel DP is a light-emitting surface and may include the display area AA and the non-display area NAA. The display area AA may be activated in response to an electrical signal.

[0117] The non-display area NAA may be adjacent to the display area AA. The non-display area NAA may surround the display area AA. In the non-display area NAA, a driving circuit or driving lines for driving the display area AA, various types of signal lines or pads for supplying an electrical signal to the display area AA, or electronic components, etc. may be disposed.

[0118] The display area AA may include a signal transmission area SA and a non-transmission area NSA. The signal transmission area SA may overlap with an electronic module EM, and the non-transmission area NSA may be disposed to surround at least a part of the signal transmission area SA. The non-transmission area NSA may correspond to an area of the display panel DP other than the signal transmission area SA.

[0119] The signal transmission area SA may overlap with the electronic module EM. The electronic module EM may receive an external input transmitted through the signal transmission area SA or provide an output through the signal transmission area SA. The signal transmission area SA may include a camera sensing area CSA and a sensor sensing area SSA. Below the display panel DP, a camera module CAM may be disposed to overlap with the camera sensing area CSA, and a sensor module SM may be disposed to overlap with the sensor sensing area SSA. Although not shown, according to other embodiments, a predetermined opening may be defined in the signal transmission area SA of the display panel DP. Accordingly, a part of the display panel DP may be penetrated.

[0120] Figure 9An embodiment is shown in which the signal transmission area SA includes a camera sensing area CSA and a sensor sensing area SSA as an example, but the number of signal transmission areas SA is not limited thereto. In the display panel DP, a single signal transmission area SA may be defined as a single area or three or more areas. Figure 9 An embodiment is shown in which the signal transmission areas SA each have a circular shape or a quadrilateral shape as an example. However, the shape of the signal transmission area SA is not limited thereto, and various definitions can be made if necessary.

[0121] In a plane, the area of the signal transmission area SA may be smaller than the area of the non-transmission area NSA. The transmittance of the signal transmission area SA may be different from the transmittance of the non-transmission area NSA. The transmittance of the signal transmission area SA may be greater than the transmittance of the non-transmission area NSA.

[0122] In the display panel DP according to an embodiment, a part of a driving circuit or driving lines for driving pixels (not shown) arranged in the signal transmission area SA may be arranged in a non-display area NAA or a part of the non-transmission area NSA. Therefore, the wiring density in the signal transmission area SA may be smaller than the wiring density in the non-transmission area NSA. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the wiring density in the signal transmission area SA may be substantially the same as the wiring density in the non-transmission area NSA.

[0123] The display panel DP may include a light-emitting element layer DP-ED (see Figure 10 ), and the light-emitting element layer DP-ED includes an organic light-emitting element, a quantum dot light-emitting element, a micro light-emitting diode (LED) light-emitting element, or a nano LED light-emitting element, etc. The light-emitting element layer DP-ED (see Figure 10 ) may be configured to substantially generate an image (for example, Figure 8 the image IM shown in).

[0124] The cover panel CM may be directly provided on the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP. The cover panel CM may be a member that supports the display panel DP and performs a heat dissipation function of emitting heat generated in the display panel DP. Holes HH may be defined in the cover panel CM. The holes HH may be defined in an area corresponding to the electronic module EM. The holes HH may be defined in an area corresponding to the bonding portion DIC, and details thereof will be described later.

[0125] The hole HH can be defined in the cover panel CM overlapping with the signal transmission area SA. According to an embodiment, the hole HH of the cover panel CM can be defined as a single hole or multiple holes. The hole HH can include a sensor hole H-S and a camera hole H-C. The sensor hole H-S can correspond to the sensor sensing area SSA described above, and the camera hole H-C can correspond to the camera sensing area CSA described above. That is, below the cover panel CM, the sensor module SM can be arranged to overlap with the sensor hole H-S, and the camera module CAM can be arranged to overlap with the camera hole H-C. The engagement hole H-P can correspond to the position of the engagement part DIC when the flexible plate CF is bent.

[0126] The display device DD can include a circuit board DC coupled to the display panel DP. The circuit board DC can include a flexible plate CF and a main board MB. The flexible plate CF can include an insulating film and wires mounted on the insulating film. The wires are coupled to the pads PD to electrically connect the circuit board DC to the display panel DP.

[0127] The main board MB can include signal lines and electronic components not shown in the figure. The electronic components can be coupled to the signal lines to be electrically connected to the display panel DP. The electronic components generate various types of electrical signals (e.g., signals for generating the display image IM (see Figure 8 )) or signals for detecting external inputs) or process the detected signals. In an embodiment, the main board MB can be provided with multiple ones corresponding to the respective electrical signals to be generated and processed, and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0128] The engagement part DIC of the main board MB can be engaged to the rear surface DBS in the engagement area DSA of the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP. When the flexible plate CF is bent, the main board MB can be arranged below the cover panel CM. The engagement part DIC can pass through the engagement hole H-P defined in the cover panel CM and be engaged to the engagement area DSA of the rear surface DBS.

[0129] In the display device DD according to an embodiment, the electronic module EM can be an electronic component that outputs or receives optical signals. In an embodiment, for example, the electronic module EM can include a camera module CAM and a sensor module SM. The camera module CAM can receive external light through the camera sensing area CSA and capture an external image. In an embodiment, the sensor module SM can be a sensor that outputs or receives external light through the sensor sensing area SSA, such as a proximity sensor or an infrared light emitting sensor.

[0130] The display device DD according to an embodiment may include a housing HU disposed below a cover panel CM. A display panel DP and the like may be accommodated inside the housing HU. In the display device DD according to an embodiment, a window WM and the housing HU may be coupled to form an appearance of the display device DD.

[0131] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0132] Reference Figure 10 , the display panel DP according to an embodiment may include a substrate base BL, a circuit layer DP-CL disposed on the substrate base BL, a light-emitting element layer DP-ED, and a packaging layer ENL. The substrate base BL may include a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or an organic / inorganic composite substrate, etc. In an embodiment, for example, the substrate base BL may include at least one polyimide layer.

[0133] The circuit layer DP-CL may include at least one insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, and a conductive pattern. The insulating layer includes at least one inorganic layer and at least one organic layer. The semiconductor pattern and the conductive pattern may form signal lines, a pixel driving circuit, and a scan driving circuit. In addition, the circuit layer DP-CL may include a back surface metal layer.

[0134] The light-emitting element layer DP-ED includes display elements, for example, light-emitting elements. In an embodiment, for example, the light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting element, a quantum dot light-emitting element, a micro LED light-emitting element, or a nano LED light-emitting element. The light-emitting element layer DP-ED may further include an organic layer such as a pixel defining film.

[0135] The light-emitting element layer DP-ED may be disposed in a display area AA. A non-display area NAA is disposed outside and around the display area AA. Light-emitting elements may not be arranged in the non-display area NAA.

[0136] The packaging layer ENL may be disposed on the light-emitting element layer DP-ED and cover the light-emitting element layer DPE. The packaging layer ENL may be disposed on the display circuit layer DP-CL to seal the light-emitting element layer DP. The packaging layer EN may be a thin film packaging layer including a plurality of organic thin films and inorganic thin films. The packaging layer ENL may include a thin film packaging layer having a stacked structure of an inorganic layer / organic layer / inorganic layer. The stacked structure of the packaging layer ENL is not particularly limited.

[0137] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 11 may be a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 9 the line IX-IX’ of.

[0138] ReferenceFigure 11 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display panel DP may include a signal transmission area SA and a non-transmission area NSA. A cover panel CM according to an embodiment of the present invention may overlap with the non-transmission area NSA and not overlap with the signal transmission area SA. Therefore, the transmittance of the signal transmission area SA may be greater than the transmittance of the non-transmission area NSA.

[0139] The cover panel CM may be directly disposed on the rear surface DBS of the display panel DP (see Figure 9 ). A hole HH may be defined in the signal transmission area SA where the cover panel CM is not disposed. The hole HH may overlap with the electronic module EM. At least a part of the electronic module EM may be arranged to be inserted into the hole HH. In an embodiment, for example, the electronic module EM may be a camera module including a lens adjacent to the display panel DP. According to an embodiment, the lens of the camera module may be arranged to be inserted into the hole HH.

[0140] Figure 11 A part of the display module DM corresponding to the above-mentioned signal transmission area SA is shown. The display panel DP and the cover panel CM corresponding to the bonding area DSA have the same configuration as the above-mentioned display panel DP and cover panel CM, and thus any repeated detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0141] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a single cover panel that performs various functions at the lower part of the display panel, thereby reducing the thickness of the display device and the number of components. The inclusion of light-emitting elements in the display panel causes various side effects, and therefore, in order to mitigate such side effects, a typical display device includes a plurality of members such as a shielding layer, a heat dissipation layer, a buffer layer, and a support layer in the lower part of the display panel. In the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cover panel including a plurality of fillers that perform the above-mentioned functions is provided, and thus the display device not only performs the functions performed by a plurality of conventional functional layers, but also achieves the effects of reducing the thickness and the number of components and improving the manufacturing process efficiency.

[0142] In a manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cover panel having a hole defined therein may be manufactured by using a jig including a support body, a support member, and a block.

[0143] In an embodiment, the support body, the support member, and the block are detachably coupled to each other, and thus the position of the block may be changed according to the shape of the cover panel.

[0144] In a manufacturing method of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cover panel directly disposed on the rear surface of the display panel may be manufactured to have various shapes by using a jig including a support body, a support member, and a block.

[0145] The utility model should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the concept of the utility model to those skilled in the art.

[0146] Although the utility model has been specifically shown and described with reference to its embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various changes in its form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the utility model as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A display device manufacturing equipment, characterized in that: The display device manufacturing equipment comprises: a stage on which a display panel including a front surface as a light emitting surface and the rear surface opposite to the front surface is provided in such a manner that the rear surface is exposed; and a jig provided on the rear surface of the display panel on the stage, wherein a jig opening corresponding to the display panel is defined in the jig, Wherein, the clamp comprises: a clamp body in which the clamp opening is defined by an inner side surface of the clamp body, wherein the clamp body has a size smaller than a size of the display panel; a support member coupled to the clamp body and disposed above and intersecting the clamp opening; and A block is coupled to the support member and disposed within the fixture opening.

2. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supporting member crosses the jig opening in a direction in which a width of the jig opening is relatively short.

3. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supporting member comprises: a support body overlapping and intersecting the clamp opening; and End portions extend from opposite ends of the support body and are coupled to the clamp body.

4. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display device manufacturing equipment further includes: A coating layer is disposed on the inner surface of the clamp body and on the outer surface of the block.

5. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supporting member is provided in plural numbers, the block is provided in plural numbers, and at least one of the plurality of blocks is coupled to each of the plurality of supporting members.

6. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support member intersects the jig opening along a direction in which a width of the jig opening is relatively long.

7. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lower surface of the clamp body and the lower surface of the block are arranged on the same plane.

8. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display panel includes a signal transmission area provided on the rear surface and overlapping with the electronic module, and a non-transmission area adjacent to the signal transmission area, and The block is disposed in a position corresponding to the signal transmission area.

9. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thickness of the block is equal to or greater than the thickness of the clip body.

10. The display device manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The block has a constant width along the thickness direction.

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