Display panel assembly and display device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a display panel assembly and a display device. The display device includes a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a cover glass disposed on the display panel; an optical member disposed between the cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the display area; a dummy member disposed between the cover glass and the display panel, an opening accommodating the optical member being defined in the dummy member, and the dummy member overlapping the non-display area; and an adhesive member disposed between the optical member and the display panel.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to and all benefits arising therefrom of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0012140, filed on January 26, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a display panel assembly, a display device, and a method for manufacturing the display device, and more particularly, to a display device including an optical unit. Background Technology

[0004] Display devices that provide images to users, such as televisions, monitors, smartphones, and tablet computers, include display panels that display images. Various display panels, such as liquid crystal display panels, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panels, electrowetting display panels, and electrophoretic display panels, are being developed as display panels. Additionally, display devices may include windows for protecting the display panel. The windows can be attached to the display panel via a lamination process. Utility Model Content

[0005] This disclosure provides a display device including a cover glass coated on a display panel.

[0006] An embodiment of this utility model provides a display panel assembly, comprising: a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a preliminary cover glass disposed on the display panel; an optical component disposed between the preliminary cover glass and the display panel, and overlapping the display area; and a preliminary dummy component disposed between the preliminary cover glass and the display panel, and defining an opening for accommodating the optical component in the preliminary dummy component. The preliminary dummy component includes: a first dummy portion overlapping the non-display area, and the opening being defined in the first dummy portion; and a second dummy portion extending from the first dummy portion in a direction away from the opening, and not overlapping the display panel.

[0007] In an embodiment, the initial cover glass may be in direct contact with the optical components and the initial dummy components.

[0008] In the embodiments, the initial dummy component and the optical component may be made of different materials.

[0009] In the embodiments, the transmittance of the initial dummy component can be less than or equal to the transmittance of the optical component.

[0010] In an embodiment, the sum of the first width of the first dummy portion and the second width of the second dummy portion can be from 5 millimeters (mm) to 10 millimeters.

[0011] In one embodiment, the display panel assembly may further include an adhesive member disposed between the optical member and the display panel. The adhesive member may be spaced apart from the initial dummy member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the display panel assembly may further include an electronic module disposed below the display panel. The electronic module may overlap with the first dummy portion but not with the optical components.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first dummy portion may include a protrusion that protrudes toward an optical component, the optical component may include a recess corresponding to the protrusion, and the electronic module may overlap with the protrusion in a plan view.

[0014] In an embodiment, the initial cover glass may include: a flat portion, the upper surface of which is defined as a flat surface through a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a protruding portion connected to the flat portion, the upper surface of which is defined as a protruding surface projecting upward in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and the flat portion may overlap with a first dummy portion, and the protruding portion may overlap with a second dummy portion.

[0015] In an embodiment of this utility model, a display device includes: a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a cover glass disposed on the display panel; an optical component disposed between the cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the display area; a dummy component, an opening for accommodating the optical component is defined in the dummy component, and the dummy component is disposed between the cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the non-display area; and an adhesive component disposed between the optical component and the display panel and spaced apart from the dummy component.

[0016] In an embodiment, the cover glass may be in direct contact with the optical components and the dummy components.

[0017] In an embodiment, the side surface of the cover glass and the side surface of the dummy component can be substantially aligned.

[0018] In one embodiment, the display device may further include an electronic module disposed below the display panel. The electronic module may overlap with the dummy component but not with the optical component.

[0019] In an embodiment, the dummy component may include a protrusion that protrudes toward the optical component, the optical component may include a recess corresponding to the protrusion, and the electronic module may overlap with the protrusion in a plan view.

[0020] In the embodiments, the dummy component and the optical component may be made of different materials, and the transmittance of the dummy component may be less than or equal to the transmittance of the optical component.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a display device includes: setting an optical component comprising a material different from that of the preliminary dummy component on a preliminary dummy component; defining an opening for receiving the optical component by removing a portion of the preliminary dummy component; attaching the preliminary dummy component with the defined opening and the optical component to a display panel; forming a preliminary cover glass covering the preliminary dummy component with the defined opening and the optical component; and forming the cover glass and the dummy component by removing portions of the preliminary cover glass that do not overlap with the display panel and portions of the preliminary dummy component that do not overlap with the display panel.

[0022] In an embodiment, the distance between the inner surface of the defined opening of the initial dummy member and the outer surface opposite to the same inner surface of the initial dummy member can be 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0023] In an embodiment, the initial cover glass may include a flat portion overlapping the optical component and a protruding portion overlapping the initial dummy component, and the protruding portion and the portion of the initial dummy component overlapping the protruding portion may be removed using a first laser.

[0024] In an embodiment, setting a preliminary dummy component and an optical component on a display panel may include: moving the optical component and the preliminary dummy component onto the display panel by using a suction cup to pick them up; separating the suction cup from the preliminary dummy component and the optical component; and then attaching the preliminary dummy component and the optical component to the display panel using a roller.

[0025] In one embodiment, when defining the opening by removing the portion of the initial dummy component, a second laser can be used to define the opening. Attached Figure Description

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

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

[0028] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a plan view of an embodiment of the display panel according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a plan view of an embodiment of the touch sensing panel according to the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a side view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the optical unit according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a plan view of an embodiment of the optical unit according to the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8A This is a plan view of an embodiment of the virtual component according to the present utility model;

[0035] Figure 8B This is a plan view of an embodiment of the optical component according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 8C This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention; and

[0037] Figures 9A to 9F This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] In this specification, it will be understood that when an element (or region, layer, or portion, etc.) is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, the element may be directly disposed on the other element, directly connected to / directly coupled to the other element, or an intermediary element may be disposed between the element and the other element.

[0039] The same reference numerals or symbols are used throughout the text to refer to the same elements. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of elements are exaggerated for the purpose of effectively describing the technical content. The term "and / or" includes all of one or more combinations defined by the relevant elements.

[0040] Although the terms first, second, etc., can 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 can be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element can be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of this invention. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form also includes the plural form.

[0041] Furthermore, for descriptive purposes, terms such as "below," "under," "above," and "above" may be used to describe the relationship between one element and another shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that the terms are relative and are based on the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings.

[0042] It will be understood that when the terms “comprising” or “including” are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0043] Given the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system), the terms “approximately” or “about” as used herein include the stated value and refer to an acceptable deviation from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the term “approximately” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, unless expressly stated herein, terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0045] In the following description, a display panel and a method for manufacturing the display panel in an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 This illustration shows a portable terminal in an embodiment of the display device DD according to the present invention. The portable terminal may include a tablet PC (“PC”), a smartphone, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), a portable multimedia player (“PMP”), a game console, or a watch-type electronic device, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0048] The display device DD according to this invention can be used in large electronic equipment such as televisions or outdoor billboards, as well as medium and small electronic equipment such as personal computers, laptop computers, car navigation units, or cameras. These are merely presented as examples, and the display device DD can also be used in other electronic devices without departing from the spirit of this invention.

[0049] The display device DD can be flexible. The term "flexible" refers to having bendable properties and can include all fully foldable structures as well as structures that can be bent to the nanometer scale. In embodiments, the flexible display device DD can, for example, include a curved display device, a foldable display device, a sliding display device, or a rollable display device. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display device DD can also be rigid.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the display surface for displaying the image IM is parallel to the surface defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The display device DD includes a plurality of regions defined in the display surface. The display surface includes a display area DA in which the image IM is displayed and a non-display area NDA adjacent to the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may also be referred to as a border area. In an embodiment, the display area DA may have a quadrilateral shape in a plan view. The non-display area NDA surrounds the display area DA, for example. Additionally, although not shown, the display device DD may, for example, include a partially curved shape. As a result, a region of the display area DA may have a curved shape.

[0051] The front (or upper) and rear (or lower) surfaces of each component of the display device DD can be opposite to each other in a third direction DR3, and the normal direction of each of the front and rear surfaces can be substantially parallel to the third direction DR3. The spacing between the front and rear surfaces defined along the third direction DR3 can correspond to the thickness of the component (or unit). In this specification, the term "in plan view" can be defined as the state when viewed in the third direction DR3. In this specification, the term "in section" can be defined as the state when viewed in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. The directions indicated from the first direction DR1 to the third direction DR3 are relative concepts and can therefore be changed to other directions. In this specification, unless otherwise stated, "overlap" can refer to overlap in a plan view.

[0052] The front (or upper, or first) and rear (or lower, or second) surfaces of each component are defined based on the direction along which the displayed image IM is located. However, the directions indicated from the first direction DR1 to the third direction DR3 can have a relative concept and can therefore be changed to other directions. In the following, the first direction to the third direction are indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3, respectively, and are therefore represented by the same reference numerals or symbols.

[0053] In embodiments of this invention, the display device DD can detect user touch input TC applied externally. User touch input TC includes various types of external input, such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure. In this embodiment, the user touch input TC is described as being applied to the front surface by the user's hand. However, this is exemplary, and as mentioned above, user touch input TC can be provided in various forms. Furthermore, the display device DD can detect user touch input TC applied to the side or rear surface of the display device DD, depending on the structure of the display device DD, and is not limited to a particular embodiment.

[0054] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention. More specifically, Figure 2A This is an exploded perspective view of the first circuit board FCB1 (or the first flexible circuit board) and the second circuit board FCB2 (or the second flexible circuit board) of the display device DD, without bending. Figure 2B This is an exploded perspective view of the first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 of the display device DD, showing their bends.

[0055] Reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B The display device DD may include a cover glass DW and a display module DM. The cover glass DW may be directly mounted on the optical unit ARU. In this case, the term "directly mounted" may mean that no additional adhesive or bonding layer is applied between the cover glass DW and the optical unit ARU.

[0056] The cover glass (DW) can provide the front surface (FS) of the display device (DD). The front surface (FS) of the cover glass (DW) may include a transmissive region (TA) and a bezel region (BZA). The transmissive region (TA) of the cover glass (DW) can be an optically transparent region. The cover glass (DW) can transmit the image (IM) provided from the display panel (DP) through the transmissive region (TA), and the corresponding image (IM) (refer to...) Figure 1 (This can be viewed by the user.)

[0057] The bezel area BZA of the cover glass DW can be aligned with the light-blocking pattern BM, which will be described later (see reference). Figure 5 The light-blocking pattern BM can be a rigid plate comprising a material having a predetermined color. The bezel area BZA of the cover glass DW can prevent the display panel DP from being aligned with the light-blocking pattern BM (see reference). Figure 5 Some overlapping components are visible from the outside.

[0058] The border region BZA may be adjacent to the transmissive region TA. The shape of the transmissive region TA may be substantially defined by the border region BZA. In an embodiment, the border region BZA may be disposed outside and surrounding the transmissive region TA. However, this is exemplary. The border region BZA may be adjacent only to one side of the transmissive region TA, or the border region BZA may be omitted. Additionally, the border region BZA may not be disposed in the front surface FS of the display device DD, but rather in the side surface of the display device DD.

[0059] The cover glass (DW) may include an optically transparent insulating material. The cover glass (DW) may include a curable resin material. The cover glass (DW) may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. In manufacturing the display device (DD) of this invention, which includes a cover glass (DW), the lamination process of attaching the glass window to the panel can be omitted, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the display device (DD) and reducing costs.

[0060] The cover glass (DW) may include functional coatings such as an anti-fingerprint layer, an anti-reflective layer, and a hard coating. In this embodiment, a cover glass (DW) with a flat shape within the display area (DP-DA) is shown; however, the shape of the cover glass (DW) can be deformable. The edges of the cover glass (DW) facing each other in the first direction (DR1) may provide curved surfaces.

[0061] The display module DM can be mounted on the rear surface of the cover glass DW and generate the image IM (see reference). Figure 1 Additionally, the display module DM can detect the user's touch input TC (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0062] In this embodiment, a display module DM is shown that provides a flat display surface; however, the shape of the display module DM can be deformed. The edges of the display module DM that face each other in the first direction DR1 can be bent from the central portion, thus providing a curved surface.

[0063] The display module DM may include an optical unit ARU, a touch sensing panel TSP, a display panel DP, a protective panel CP, a support panel SPP, and a drive control module DCM.

[0064] An optical unit ARU can be disposed on the display panel DP and overlap with the display area DP-DA. The optical unit ARU can be disposed between the display panel DP and the cover glass DW. The optical unit ARU can reduce the reflectivity of light incident from the outside. The optical unit ARU can include at least one of a phase retarder, a polarizer, a polarizing film, and a polarizing filter. The optical unit ARU can be attached to the display panel DP via an adhesive layer. However, the type of optical unit ARU is exemplary and not limited to this. In embodiments, the optical unit ARU may, for example, include a color filter.

[0065] The optical unit ARU can be used as a substrate for applying resin material to form the cover glass DW. Specifically, the optical unit ARU, having a flat plate shape, can be positioned beneath the cover glass DW, and liquid resin material can be applied to the optical unit ARU. Furthermore, the optical unit ARU covers the flexible circuit boards FCB1 and FCB2 in a planar view, thus preventing resin material from flowing into and curing into the flexible circuit boards FCB1 and FCB2 during resin application. Preventing the resin material from flowing into and curing into the flexible circuit boards FCB1 and FCB2 also prevents cracks from occurring when the flexible circuit boards FCB1 and FCB2 are bent during the bending process.

[0066] The display panel DP can be positioned between the cover glass DW and the support panel (also known as the support module SPP). The display panel DP can display an image IM in response to an electrical signal (see reference). Figure 1 The display panel DP in the embodiments can be a light-emitting display panel, but is not specifically limited to this. In the embodiments, the display panel DP can be, for example, an organic light-emitting display panel, an inorganic light-emitting display panel, an organic-inorganic light-emitting display panel, or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of an organic light-emitting display panel may include organic light-emitting materials, and the light-emitting layer of an inorganic light-emitting display panel may include inorganic light-emitting materials. The light-emitting layer of an organic-inorganic light-emitting display panel may include organic-inorganic light-emitting materials. The light-emitting layer of a quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots or quantum rods, etc.

[0067] Image IM (reference) provided by display device DD Figure 1 The display area DP can be displayed on the front surface IS of the display panel DP. The front surface IS of the display panel DP can include the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA. In this case, the display area DP-DA can correspond to... Figure 1 The display area DA, and the non-display area DP-NDA can correspond to Figure 1 The non-display area NDA.

[0068] The display area DP-DA can respond to the activation of an electrical signal and display an image IM (see reference). Figure 1 The display area DP-DA of the display panel DP may correspond to the transmissive area TA of the cover glass DW. In this specification, the phrase "area / part corresponds to area / part" means "areas / parts overlap each other" and is not limited to having the same area and / or shape.

[0069] The non-display area DP-NDA may be adjacent to the outside of the display area DP-DA. In an embodiment, the non-display area DP-NDA may, for example, surround the display area DP-DA. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the non-display area DP-NDA may be defined to have various shapes.

[0070] The non-display area DP-NDA can be an area where drive circuits or drive lines for driving components located in the display area DP-DA, various types of signal lines or pads for providing electrical signals, etc., can be set. The non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP can correspond to the bezel area BZA of the cover glass DW. The bezel area BZA prevents the components of the display panel DP located in the non-display area DP-NDA from being viewed from the outside.

[0071] The drive control module (DCM) includes a main circuit board (MCB) (or drive circuit board), a first circuit board (FCB1), and a panel drive circuit (PDC). The first circuit board (FCB1) can be connected to the terminal section of the display panel (DP) to electrically connect the main circuit board (MCB) and the display panel (DP).

[0072] The panel driver circuit PDC can be disposed on the non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP. The panel driver circuit PDC can be configured as an integrated circuit. Although not shown separately, multiple passive components and multiple active components can be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the main circuit board MCB. The main circuit board MCB can be a rigid circuit board or a flexible circuit board, and the first circuit board FCB1 can be a flexible circuit board. The main circuit board MCB can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel DP.

[0073] The first circuit board FCB1 can be disposed on the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP and is bent. The first circuit board FCB1 can be connected to the terminal portion of the display panel DP to electrically connect the main circuit board MCB and the display panel DP. One end of the first circuit board FCB1 can be disposed on the front surface IS of the display panel DP, and the opposite end can be bent to be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel DP. The first circuit board FCB1 can be bent, and the opposite end of the first circuit board FCB1 can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel DP. The terminals of the first circuit board FCB1 can be on the third-direction DR3 opposite to the rear surface of the non-display area NDA. The main circuit board MCB can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel DP.

[0074] The touch sensing panel (TSP) can be positioned between the display panel (DP) and the optical unit (ARU), and connected to the second circuit board (FCB2). Additionally, the touch sensing panel (TSP) can acquire information about the user's touch input (TC) (see reference). Figure 1 The coordinate information of the touch sensing panel (TSP). The touch sensing panel (TSP) can detect various types of input applied from outside the display device (DD). In an embodiment, the touch sensing panel (TSP) can detect input from the user's body, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the touch sensing panel (TSP) can sense various types of external input, such as light, heat, or pressure. In addition, the touch sensing panel (TSP) can detect input from contact with the sensing surface and input adjacent to the sensing surface.

[0075] A touch sensing panel (TSP) can be a capacitive touch panel or an electromagnetic induction touch panel, etc. A touch sensing panel (TSP) may include a substrate layer, sensing electrodes, and signal lines connected to the sensing electrodes.

[0076] The touch control unit TCM may include a second circuit board FCB2 and a touch driving circuit TDC. The second circuit board FCB2 may be electrically connected to the main circuit board MCB and the touch sensing panel TSP, and has the touch driving circuit TDC disposed (e.g., mounted) on the second circuit board FCB2. Similar to the first circuit board FCB1, the second circuit board FCB2 can be bent. The second circuit board FCB2 may be electrically connected to the main circuit board MCB and the touch sensing panel TSP. The touch driving circuit TDC may be configured as an integrated circuit. The second circuit board FCB2 may be a flexible circuit board.

[0077] A protective panel (CP) can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel (DP) and protect the display panel (DP) from impacts. The protective panel (CP) may include a plastic film as a substrate layer. The protective panel (also called a protective layer) (CP) may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0078] The support panel SPP can be disposed on the rear surface of the protective panel CP and supports both the display panel DP and the protective panel CP. The support panel SPP can be a metal plate with a rigidity greater than a predetermined rigidity. The support panel SPP can be a stainless steel plate. The support panel SPP can be black to block external light incident on the display panel DP.

[0079] Figure 3 This is a plan view of an embodiment of the display panel according to the present invention. Figure 3 A simplified signal circuit diagram is shown. Additionally, for ease of description, in... Figure 3 Some components have been omitted.

[0080] Reference Figure 3 The display panel DP may include a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA in a plan view. In this embodiment, the non-display area DP-NDA may be defined along the boundary of the display area DP-DA. The display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP respectively correspond to... Figure 1 The display device DD shown in the figure has a display area DA and a non-display area NDA.

[0081] The display panel (DP) may include a scan drive circuit (SDC), multiple signal lines (SGLs, hereinafter referred to as signal lines SGLs), multiple signal pads (PDs, hereinafter referred to as signal pads PDs), and multiple pixels (PXs, hereinafter referred to as pixels PXs). Pixels PXs are disposed within the display area (DP-DA). Each pixel PX includes an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and a pixel drive circuit connected to the OLED.

[0082] The scan drive circuit SDC generates multiple scan signals (hereinafter referred to as scan signals) and sequentially outputs the scan signals to multiple scan lines SL (hereinafter referred to as scan lines SL), which will be described later. The scan drive circuit SDC can also output another control signal to the drive circuit of pixel PX.

[0083] The scan drive circuit SDC may include multiple thin-film transistors formed by the same process as the drive circuit for the pixel PX (e.g., low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (“LTPS”) process or low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (“LTPO”) process).

[0084] The signal line SGL includes scan lines SL, data lines DL, power lines PL, and control signal lines CSL. Scan lines SL are connected to corresponding pixels PX, and data lines DL are also connected to corresponding pixels PX. Power lines PL are connected to pixels PX. Control signal lines CSL provide control signals to the scan drive circuit SDC.

[0085] The signal line SGL can overlap with the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA. The signal line SGL can include a pad portion and a line portion. The line portion can overlap with the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA. The pad portion is connected to the terminals of the line portion. The pad portion is located in the non-display area DP-NDA and overlaps with the corresponding signal pad PD in the signal pad PD. In the non-display area DP-NDA, the area where the signal pad PD is located can be defined as the pad area NDA-PD.

[0086] The line portion connected to pixel PX essentially constitutes the majority of signal line SGL. The line portion is connected to the transistor (not shown) of pixel PX. The line portion can have a single-layer / multi-layer structure and can be a single unit or comprise two or more parts. The two or more parts can be disposed in different layers and connected to each other via contact holes passing through an insulating layer disposed between the two or more parts.

[0087] Figure 4 This is a plan view of an embodiment of the touch sensing panel according to the present invention.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 The touch-sensing panel (TSP) can detect touch input (TC) (see reference). Figure 1 It also acquires information about the location or intensity of external touch input TC. The touch sensing panel TSP can include a touch area TTA and a touch periphery area TSA in a plan view. In this embodiment, the touch periphery area TSA can be defined along the boundary of the touch area TTA. The touch area TTA and touch periphery area TSA of the touch sensing panel TSP can respectively correspond to... Figure 1 The display device DD shown in the figure has a display area DA and a non-display area NDA.

[0089] The touch sensing panel (TSP) includes multiple first sensing electrodes (SE1), multiple second sensing electrodes (SE2), multiple sensing lines (TL1, TL2, and TL3), and multiple sensing pads (TPD).

[0090] The first sensing electrode SE1 and the second sensing electrode SE2 are disposed in the touch area TTA. The touch sensing panel TSP can obtain information about the touch input TC based on the change in capacitance between the first sensing electrode SE1 and the second sensing electrode SE2.

[0091] Multiple first sensing electrodes SE1 may each extend along a first direction DR1, and multiple first sensing electrodes SE1 may be arranged along a second direction DR2. The first sensing electrodes SE1 may include multiple first sensing patterns SPE1 and multiple first connection patterns CPE1.

[0092] First sensing patterns SPE1 constituting a first sensing electrode SE1 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along a first direction DR1. In this embodiment, for ease of description, the first sensing patterns SPE1 are shown by being shaded. First connecting patterns CPE1 may be disposed between the first sensing patterns SPE1 and connect two adjacent first sensing patterns SPE1.

[0093] A plurality of second sensing electrodes SE2 each extend along a second direction DR2 and are arranged along a first direction DR1. The second sensing electrodes SE2 may include a plurality of second sensing patterns SPE2 and a plurality of second connection patterns CPE2.

[0094] Second sensing patterns SPE2 constituting a second sensing electrode SE2 are spaced apart from each other along a second direction DR2. A second connecting pattern CPE2 is disposed between the second sensing patterns SPE2 and connects two adjacent second sensing patterns SPE2.

[0095] Sensing lines TL1, TL2, and TL3 are disposed in the touch peripheral area TSA. Sensing lines TL1, TL2, and TL3 may include a first sensing line TL1, a second sensing line TL2, and a third sensing line TL3. Each of the first sensing lines TL1 is connected to a first sensing electrode SE1. Each of the second sensing lines TL2 is connected to one end of a second sensing electrode SE2.

[0096] Each of the third sensing lines TL3 is connected to an end on the opposite side of the second sensing electrode SE2. The ends on the opposite side of the second sensing electrode SE2 may be opposite to one end of the second sensing electrode SE2. According to this invention, the second sensing electrode SE2 can be connected to both the second sensing line TL2 and the third sensing line TL3. Therefore, for a second sensing electrode SE2 having a length relatively larger than that of the first sensing electrode SE1, sensitivity can be maintained uniformly in each region. This is exemplary. In another embodiment, the third sensing line TL3 may be omitted, and this is not limited to a particular embodiment.

[0097] The sensing pads TPD are located in the touch peripheral area TSA. Each sensing pad TPD is connected to sensing lines TL1, TL2, and TL3, and electrically connects external signals to the first sensing electrode SE1 and the second sensing electrode SE2. The sensing pads TPD can be connected to the second circuit board FCB2 (see reference). Figure 2B ).

[0098] Figure 5 This is a side view of an embodiment of the display device according to the present invention.

[0099] Specifically, Figure 5 It is along Figure 2BThe cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0100] Figure 5 The illustration shows a single-layer display panel (DP), but a display panel DP can have a multi-layer structure. A display panel DP may include a substrate layer, a circuit layer, a light-emitting element layer, and an encapsulation layer. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that a display panel DP may also include other common components.

[0101] Figure 5 The stacked structure of the display device DD is shown.

[0102] The display device DD may include a display panel DP, an optical unit ARU, a first protective film PF1, a second protective film PF2, a protective panel CP, a support panel SPP, a touch sensing panel TSP, a cover glass DW, and first adhesive layers AM1 to seventh adhesive layers AM7. A portion of the first adhesive layers AM1 to seventh adhesive layers AM7, as described below, may be omitted. Referring to the accompanying drawings, a first circuit board FCB1 and a second circuit board FCB2 may be bent and disposed below the support panel SPP. One surface of the second protective film PF2 may be attached to the seventh adhesive layer AM7.

[0103] The display device DD may include a non-bent area NBA and a bent area BA in which the first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 are bent.

[0104] The first adhesive layer AM1 to the seventh adhesive layer AM7, described below, can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (“PSA”) film, an optically transparent adhesive (“OCA”) film, or an optically transparent resin (“OCR”) film. Each of the first adhesive layer AM1 to the seventh adhesive layer AM7 comprises a photocurable adhesive or a thermocurable adhesive, and the materials of the first adhesive layer AM1 to the seventh adhesive layer AM7 are not particularly limited. Some of the first adhesive layer AM1 to the seventh adhesive layer AM7 may be omitted.

[0105] The display panel DP can be positioned between the touch sensing panel TSP and the protection panel CP. The display panel DP can display an image IM in response to an electrical signal (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0106] The first circuit board FCB1 can be electrically connected to the signal pad PD. In this case, the signal pad PD can correspond to the settings provided. Figure 3 The signal pads PD are located in the NDA-PD area of ​​the display panel DP. The signal pads PD can be set in the non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP (see reference). Figure 2A In the first circuit board FCB1, a bendable bending region BA may be included.

[0107] The touch sensing panel (TSP) can be mounted on the display panel (DP) and detect input signals. The second adhesive layer (AM2) between the touch sensing panel (TSP) and the display panel (DP) can be omitted. The touch sensing panel (TSP) can be mounted between the display panel (DP) and the optical unit (ARU) and electrically connected to the second circuit board (FCB2).

[0108] The touch control unit (TCM) may include a touch driver circuit (TDC), a second circuit board (FCB2), and a sensing pad (TPD). The TCM may be coupled to the terminals of the touch sensing panel (TSP). The second circuit board (FCB2) may be connected to the terminal portion of the touch sensing panel (TSP) to electrically connect the main circuit board (MCB) and the touch sensing panel (TSP). The sensing pad (TPD) may be disposed on the touch sensing panel (TSP). In this case, the sensing pad (TPD) may be connected to... Figure 4 The sensing pad TPD shown is the same.

[0109] The second circuit board FCB2 can be disposed on the display panel DP and bent together with the first circuit board FCB1. The second circuit board FCB2 can transmit input signals detected by the touch sensing panel TSP. The second circuit board FCB2 can overlap with the bent area BA and partially overlap with the non-bent area NBA.

[0110] An optical unit ARU can be disposed on the upper surface DP-US of the display panel DP. An optical unit ARU can be disposed on the touch sensing panel TSP. An optical unit ARU can be disposed between the display panel DP and the cover glass DW, and overlaps with the bent area BA and the non-bent area NBA. According to this embodiment, the optical unit ARU is not only disposed in the non-bent area NBA, but can also extend to the bent area BA. As described above, the extended optical unit ARU can serve as a substrate layer allowing the light-blocking pattern BM and the cover glass DW to be disposed on the bent area BA. Specifically, the optical unit ARU can serve as a substrate layer when a resin material, such as the resin forming the cover glass DW, is applied. Additionally, the optical unit ARU can serve as a barrier to prevent the coating liquid of the cover glass DW from entering the bent first circuit board FCB1 and second circuit board FCB2.

[0111] The optical unit ARU can be mounted on the display panel DP, and a portion of the optical unit ARU can be mounted on the second circuit board FCB2. The optical unit ARU may include a first optical portion ARU1 and a second optical portion ARU2.

[0112] The first optical component ARU1 can be disposed on the display panel DP and overlap with the non-bending area NBA. The second optical component ARU2 can be disposed on the second circuit board FCB2 and extend from the first optical component ARU1 in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. The second optical component ARU2 can overlap with the bending area BA and a portion of the non-bending area NBA.

[0113] The first optical component ARU1 can be attached to the touch sensing panel TSP via a first adhesive layer AM1. However, the first adhesive layer AM1 can be omitted when necessary. The second optical component ARU2 can extend from the first optical component ARU1 and is directly disposed on the second circuit board FCB2 without an additional adhesive layer. This is to prevent interference with the bending of the second circuit board FCB2, which is in contact with the second optical component ARU2, when the second circuit board FCB2 is bent together with the first circuit board FCB1. When the second circuit board FCB2 is bent, stress is applied to both the second optical component ARU2 and the second circuit board FCB2 during the bending process, as the second circuit board FCB2 and the second optical component ARU2 are joined via the adhesive layer. Therefore, either the second circuit board FCB2 or the second optical component ARU2 may be damaged. The first optical component ARU1 may correspond to an optical element described later, and the second optical component ARU2 may correspond to a dummy element described later. The first optical component ARU1 and the second optical component ARU2 may comprise different materials from each other, and the transmittance of the second optical component ARU2 may be equal to or less than the transmittance of the first optical component ARU1. Here, transmittance can be referred to as light transmittance.

[0114] In an embodiment of this utility model, the optical unit ARU may define a stepped portion SP corresponding to the second circuit board FCB2.

[0115] In embodiments of this invention, the thickness T1 of the first optical portion ARU1 can be greater than the thickness T2 of the second optical portion ARU2. The thickness T1 of the first optical portion ARU1 can also be greater than the thickness of the second circuit board FCB2. However, this invention is not limited to this. The thickness T1 of the first optical portion ARU1 and the thickness T2 of the second optical portion ARU2 can be the same, and it is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0116] In embodiments of this invention, a stepped portion SP can be defined at the boundary between the first optical portion ARU1 and the second optical portion ARU2. The stepped portion SP can be spaced apart from the side surface FCB2-S of the second circuit board FCB2 by a predetermined interval. The side surface of the first optical portion ARU1 defining the stepped portion SP can be closer to the center of the non-bending region NBA than the side surface FCB2-S of the second circuit board FCB2. Therefore, collision between the side surface FCB2-S of the second circuit board FCB2 and the side surface of the first optical portion ARU1 can be prevented during the bending process. However, this invention is not limited thereto. The stepped portion SP can contact the side surface FCB2-S of the second circuit board FCB2, and is not limited to the specific embodiment.

[0117] The first protective film PF1 can be disposed on the rear surface DP-LS of the display panel DP. The display panel DP can be attached to the first protective film PF1 via the third adhesive layer AM3. The protective panel CP can be disposed on the rear surface of the first protective film PF1. The shielding layer BF can be attached to the rear surface of the first protective film PF1 via the fourth adhesive layer AM4. The padding layer CU can be attached to the rear surface of the shielding layer BF via the fifth adhesive layer AM5. The support panel SPP can be attached to the rear surface of the padding layer CU via the sixth adhesive layer AM6.

[0118] The drive control module (DCM) can be coupled to the terminals of the display panel (DP). The DCM may include a first circuit board (FCB1), a panel drive circuit (PDC), and a main circuit board (MCB). The first circuit board (FCB1) is electrically connected to the main circuit board (MCB) and the display panel (DP), and has the panel drive circuit (PDC) disposed (e.g., mounted) on the display panel (DP). In this embodiment, the panel drive circuit (PDC) is shown disposed (e.g., mounted) on the display panel (DP), but the location of the panel drive circuit (PDC) is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the panel drive circuit (PDC) may, for example, be directly disposed on the upper surface (DP-US) of the display panel (DP).

[0119] The light-blocking pattern BM can be directly applied to the optical unit ARU. The light-blocking pattern BM can overlap with the non-bent area NBA and the bent area BA of the display panel DP. The light-blocking pattern BM blocks light, and therefore prevents structures such as the display panel DP and signal lines located beneath the light-blocking pattern BM from being visible from the outside. The light-blocking pattern BM can be formed by printing on the optical unit ARU. The outer surface BM-O of the light-blocking pattern BM can be aligned with the outer surface ARU-O of the optical unit ARU. That is, the outer surface BM-O of the light-blocking pattern BM and the outer surface ARU-O of the optical unit ARU can be arranged in a straight line in cross-section.

[0120] The cover glass DW can be disposed on the optical unit ARU without an additional adhesive layer or adhesive member. The cover glass DW can be formed by applying a resin material such as resin and then curing the resin material. On the lower surface of the cover glass DW, a stepped portion SP corresponding to the light-blocking pattern BM can be defined. Although the lower surface of the cover glass DW has the stepped portion SP caused by the optical unit ARU and the light-blocking pattern BM, the upper surface of the cover glass DW (i.e., Figure 2B The front surface (FS) can be flat. The outer surface (DW-O) of the cover glass (DW) can be aligned with the outer surface (BM-O) of the light-blocking pattern (BM) and the outer surface (ARU-O) of the optical unit (ARU). Therefore, separation of the cover glass (DW), the light-blocking pattern (BM), and the optical unit (ARU) due to external impact can be prevented. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The stepped portion (SP) is not limited to the lower surface of the cover glass (DW) and is not limited to the specific embodiment.

[0121] The first protective film PF1 can be applied to the rear surface DP-LS of the display panel DP. The first protective film PF1 can be attached to the rear surface DP-LS via the third adhesive layer AM3. However, the third adhesive layer AM3 can be omitted when necessary. The first protective film PF1 can protect the rear surface DP-LS of the display panel DP from external impacts.

[0122] The protective panel CP can be installed on the rear surface DP-LS of the display panel DP. The protective panel CP can protect the display panel DP from impacts applied from below.

[0123] The protective panel CP may include a fourth adhesive layer AM4, a shielding layer BF, a fifth adhesive layer AM5, a padding layer CU, and a sixth adhesive layer AM6. The shielding layer BF may be attached to the lower surface of the first protective film PF1 via the fourth adhesive layer AM4. The shielding layer BF has a color with relatively low transmittance, and therefore prevents the components beneath the shielding layer BF from being visible.

[0124] The shielding layer BF may comprise a flexible synthetic resin film. In embodiments, the shielding layer BF may be, for example, a film comprising polyimide (“PI”) or polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”). However, the material of the shielding layer BF is not limited to these, and the shielding layer BF may have various materials when required.

[0125] The cushioning layer CU can be attached to the lower surface of the shielding layer BF via the fifth adhesive layer AM5. The cushioning layer CU can absorb impacts transmitted from below the display panel DP. The cushioning layer CU can be a material with relatively high elasticity, such as a foam sheet defining multiple openings therein.

[0126] A support panel SPP can be disposed on the lower surface of the protective panel CP and supports the display panel DP and the protective panel CP. The support panel SPP can be a metal plate with a stiffness greater than a predetermined value. In an embodiment, the support panel SPP can be, for example, a stainless steel plate. The support panel SPP can be black to block external light incident on the display panel DP.

[0127] Referring to the attached drawings, the first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 are bendable and positioned below the support panel SPP. One surface of the second protective film PF2 can be attached to the seventh adhesive layer AM7.

[0128] The first circuit board FCB1 is bendable. One end of the first circuit board FCB1 can be disposed on the upper surface DP-US of the display panel DP, and the opposite end of the first circuit board FCB1 can be disposed on the rear surface DP-LS of the display panel DP. The opposite end of the first circuit board FCB1 can be connected to the main circuit board MCB.

[0129] The second circuit board FCB2 can be connected to the terminal portion of the touch sensing panel TSP to electrically connect the main circuit board MCB and the touch sensing panel TSP. The second circuit board FCB2 can transmit input signals detected by the touch sensing panel TSP. The second circuit board FCB2 can be bent together with the first circuit board FCB1. One end of the second circuit board FCB2 can be disposed on the front surface of the touch sensing panel TSP, and the opposite end of the second circuit board FCB2 can be disposed on the rear surface of the touch sensing panel TSP. The opposite end of the second circuit board FCB2 can be connected to the main circuit board MCB.

[0130] The optical unit ARU can cover the bent portions of the first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 in the plan view. Because the light-blocking pattern BM is on the optical unit ARU, the bent portions of the display panel DP are not visible from the outside. The outer surface ARU-O of the optical unit ARU can protrude further outward than the fixed point LFCB1, which is farthest from the non-bent area NBA, in the bent portion of the first circuit board FCB1. The outer surface ARU-O of the optical unit ARU can protrude further outward than the fixed point LFCB2, which is farthest from the non-bent area NBA, in the bent portion of the second circuit board FCB2.

[0131] In the optical unit ARU, the position of the fixed point LARU furthest from the non-bending region NBA in the second direction DR2 can be defined as position 1-1 HH1. In the bent portion of the second circuit board FCB2, the position of the fixed point LFCB2 furthest from the non-bending region NBA in the second direction DR2 can be defined as position 2-1 HH2. In the bent portion of the first circuit board FCB1, the position of the fixed point LFCB1 furthest from the non-bending region NBA in the second direction DR2 can be defined as position 3-1 HH3. Position 1-1 HH1 can be set to be farther away from the non-bending region NBA than positions 2-1 HH2 and 3-1 HH3. Position 2-1 HH2 can be set to be farther away from the non-bending region NBA than position 3-1 HH3.

[0132] The light-blocking pattern BM can cover the bent portions of the first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 in the plan view. The outer surface BM-O of the light-blocking pattern BM can protrude further outward than the fixed point LFCB1, which is farthest from the non-bent area NBA in the bent portion of the first circuit board FCB1. The outer surface BM-O of the light-blocking pattern BM can protrude further outward than the fixed point LFCB2, which is farthest from the non-bent area NBA in the bent portion of the second circuit board FCB2.

[0133] When forming a cover glass DW by applying a resin material such as a resin and then curing the resin material, it may be substantially difficult to couple the light-blocking pattern BM separately to the rear surface of the cover glass DW. Therefore, it may be necessary to provide the light-blocking pattern BM on the upper surface of the optical unit ARU disposed below the cover glass DW. In this case, when the optical unit ARU does not extend to the bending region BA like a conventional optical unit, the light-blocking pattern BM may also not extend to the bending region BA. In this case, the bent first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 may be visible from the outside. In the embodiments of the present invention, a stepped portion SP is formed in the optical unit ARU and the optical unit ARU extends to the bending region BA. Therefore, the light-blocking pattern BM may also extend to the bending region BA, and the bent first circuit board FCB1 and the second circuit board FCB2 may not be visible from the outside.

[0134] Figure 6 This is an enlarged view of an embodiment of the optical unit according to the present invention. Specifically, Figure 6 This is shown on the display device DD (reference). Figure 2A The optical unit ARU, display panel DP, and cover glass DW are magnified, and the adhesive layer is omitted from the view.

[0135] Reference Figure 6The optical unit ARU can be disposed between the display panel DP and the cover glass DW. The optical unit ARU may include an optical component ARU1 and a dummy component ARU2. The optical component ARU1 may correspond to the first optical portion ARU1 described above (see reference). Figure 5 Furthermore, the dummy component ARU2 can correspond to the aforementioned second optical component ARU2 (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0136] A first adhesive layer AM1 can be provided between the display panel DP and the optical unit ARU. The first adhesive layer AM1 can contact each of the display panel DP and the optical unit ARU.

[0137] The dummy component ARU2 can be disposed between the display panel DP and the cover glass DW. The dummy component ARU2 can be in direct contact with the light-blocking pattern BM. However, this invention is not limited to this, and the dummy component ARU2 can also be in direct contact with the cover glass DW. Additionally, the dummy component ARU2 can be in direct contact with the display panel DP.

[0138] The dummy component ARU2 may include an upper surface, a lower surface opposite to the upper surface, an inner surface extending to both the upper and lower surfaces, and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. An opening OP-ARU may be defined within the inner surface. The opening OP-ARU may overlap with the optical component ARU1, which will be described later. Additionally, the opening OP-ARU may overlap with the first adhesive layer AM1.

[0139] The dummy component ARU2 can extend much further than the display panel DP in the first direction DR1. That is, the outer surface of the dummy component ARU2 can be further in the outer periphery compared to the outer surface of the display panel DP.

[0140] The virtual component ARU2 can be used with the aforementioned display area DP-DA (see reference). Figure 3 This invention is not limited to this, and the dummy component ARU2 can overlap with the non-display area DP-NDA (see reference). Figure 3 )overlapping.

[0141] Optical component ARU1 can be disposed between display panel DP and cover glass DW. Optical component ARU1 can be in direct contact with cover glass DW. First adhesive layer AM1 (also called adhesive component) can be provided between optical component ARU1 and display panel DP.

[0142] The optical component ARU1 can be housed within the open OP-ARU. The optical component ARU1 can be connected to the display area DP-DA (see reference). Figure 3 )overlapping.

[0143] Optical component ARU1 and dummy component ARU2 may be made of different materials. The transmittance of dummy component ARU2 may be less than or equal to the transmittance of optical component ARU1.

[0144] The transmittance of the dummy component ARU2 can be less than or equal to that of the optical component ARU1, thus increasing the freedom for material selection and design. This can then reduce manufacturing costs and shorten manufacturing time.

[0145] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a plan view of an embodiment of the optical unit according to the present invention.

[0146] Reference Figure 7A Optical component ARU1 can be housed within an open OP-ARU. The outer surface of optical component ARU1 can contact the inner surface of dummy component ARU2. Optical component ARU1 and dummy component ARU2 do not need to overlap in a planar view.

[0147] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the optical component ARU1 and the dummy component ARU2 can overlap in the plan view. That is, in the plan view, the outer surface of the optical component ARU1 can be disposed between the inner surface and the outer surface of the dummy component ARU2.

[0148] The dummy component ARU2 may include a protrusion PP-ARU2 that protrudes toward the optical component ARU1. The optical component ARU1 may include a recess RU-ARU1 that is recessed in a position corresponding to the protrusion PP-ARU2.

[0149] Figure 7B The present invention is shown in relation to Figure 7A A plan view of different optical unit ARU-1 embodiments of the optical unit ARU. Specifically, in Figure 7B In the embodiment shown, the protrusion PP-ARU2 can be omitted from the dummy component ARU1-2 of the optical unit ARU-1 (see reference). Figure 7A Furthermore, the recessed portion RU-ARU1 can be omitted from the optical component ARU1-1 of the optical unit ARU-1 (see reference). Figure 7A ).

[0150] Figure 8A This is a plan view of a dummy component in an embodiment of this utility model. Figure 8B This is a plan view of the optical component in an embodiment of this utility model, and Figure 8C This is a cross-sectional view of the display device according to the present invention.

[0151] Reference Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe dummy component ARU2 may include a protrusion PP-ARU2. The protrusion PP-ARU2 may be disposed on the inner surface of the dummy component ARU2, and the recess RU-ARU1 may be disposed on the outer surface of the optical component ARU1. The protrusion PP-ARU2 and the recess RU-ARU1 may be in contact with each other.

[0152] The width of the optical component ARU1 in the first direction DR1 can be greater than or equal to the width of the opening OP-ARU in the first direction DR1. Additionally, the width of the optical component ARU1 in the second direction DR2 can be greater than or equal to the width of the opening OP-ARU in the second direction DR2.

[0153] When optical component ARU1 is housed within the opening OP-ARU of dummy component ARU2, optical component ARU1 can completely cover the opening OP-ARU. This allows either optical component ARU1 or dummy component ARU2 to be positioned within the display area DP-DA (see reference). Figure 3 Within the overlapping range, it is always within the range of the display device DD (reference). Figure 2A The path of light emitted from inside the device to the outside, or from the display device DD (refer to...) Figure 2A The path of light entering from the outside to the inside.

[0154] Reference Figure 8C The electronic module CMD can be located below the display panel DP and the optical unit ARU. Figure 8C The diagram shows the first adhesive layer AM1 omitted (see reference). Figure 5 Configuration of ).

[0155] The electronic module (CMD) can be a camera module, but is not limited to this. The electronic module (CMD) can also be a sensor module, but is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0156] The electronic module CMD can overlap with the dummy component ARU2. The electronic module CMD can not overlap with the optical component ARU1.

[0157] The electronic module CMD does not overlap with the optical component ARU1, but overlaps with the dummy component ARU2. Therefore, it can prevent polarization or optical path changes caused by interference from the optical component ARU1 when light exits or enters the electronic module CMD.

[0158] Additionally, the electronic module CMD can overlap with the protrusion PP-ARU2 of the dummy component ARU2 in the plan view. The electronic module CMD can also be non-overlapping with the recess RU-ARU1 of the optical component ARU1 in the plan view.

[0159] Figures 9A to 9FThis is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention. (Referring to...) Figures 9A to 9F In the description, the same / similar reference numerals or symbols are used in conjunction with those above. Figure 1 Components identical or similar to those described in Figure 8. Their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0160] In embodiments of this utility model, a method for manufacturing a display device DD (see reference) is used. Figure 2A The method may include: setting an optical component ARU1 on a preliminary dummy component P-ARU2, comprising a material different from that of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2; defining an opening OP-ARU for accommodating the optical component ARU1 by removing a portion of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2; setting the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1 on a display panel DP; forming a preliminary cover glass P-DW covering the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1; and forming the cover glass DW and the dummy component ARU2 by removing portions of the preliminary cover glass P-DW that do not overlap with the display panel DP and portions of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 that do not overlap with the display panel DP.

[0161] Reference Figure 9A The optical module POLM may include a first protective layer SF1, a first adhesive layer AM1, an optical component ARU1, and a second protective layer SF2.

[0162] The first protective layer SF1 can be disposed below the optical component ARU1. The first protective layer SF1 can protect the first adhesive layer AM1 and the optical component ARU1 from the influence of external foreign substances.

[0163] The first adhesive layer AM1 may be disposed below the optical component ARU1. The first adhesive layer AM1 may be disposed between the first protective layer SF1 and the optical component ARU1. The first adhesive layer AM1 may contact each of the first protective layer SF1 and the optical component ARU1.

[0164] The second protective layer SF2 can be disposed on the top of the optical component ARU1. The second protective layer SF2 can be in direct contact with the optical component ARU1. The second protective layer SF2 can protect the optical component ARU1 from the influence of external foreign substances.

[0165] Reference Figure 9B and combined Figure 9AAn optical module POLM, in which protective layers SF1 and SF2 are removed, can be provided on the initial dummy component P-ARU2. A first adhesive layer AM1 and an optical component ARU1 can be provided on the initial dummy component P-ARU2. The accompanying drawings show a state where both the first protective layer SF1 and the second protective layer SF2 have been removed. However, only the first protective layer SF1 can be removed, and the first and second protective layers SF1 and SF2 are not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0166] The opening OP-ARU can be defined by removing a portion of the initial dummy member P-ARU2 (as the removed portion RA of the initial dummy member P-ARU2). The inner surface of the initial dummy member P-ARU2 can define the opening OP-ARU. The initial dummy member P-ARU2 can extend much further than the optical member ARU1 in the first direction D1.

[0167] The first laser (laser) LZ1 can remove the removed portion RA of the initial dummy component P-ARU2. The first laser (laser) LZ1 can remove only the removed portion RA of the initial dummy component P-ARU2.

[0168] Reference Figure 9C A display panel DP can be mounted on the first STG1. Furthermore, a preliminary dummy component P-ARU2, an optical component ARU1, and a first adhesive layer AM1 can be mounted on the display panel DP. The preliminary dummy component P-ARU2, the optical component ARU1, and the first adhesive layer AM1 can be mounted on the display panel DP using a suction cup ADP. The upper surfaces of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1 can be adhered to the suction cup ADP.

[0169] The preliminary dummy component P-ARU2, the optical component ARU1, and the first adhesive layer AM1 are disposed on the display panel DP, and then pressure is applied to the upper surfaces of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the upper surfaces of the optical component ARU1 by roller RL. In this way, the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2, the optical component ARU1, and the first adhesive layer AM1 can be attached to the display panel DP.

[0170] Reference Figure 9D A preliminary cover glass P-DW can be applied to the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1. Before applying the preliminary cover glass P-DW, a light-blocking pattern BM can be formed on the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2. The preliminary cover glass P-DW can be coated on the upper surface of the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the upper surface of the optical component ARU1.

[0171] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the light-blocking pattern BM can be formed on the initial dummy component P-ARU2, but is not limited thereto. Therefore, the light-blocking pattern BM can be formed on the optical component ARU1, and is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0172] When the preliminary cover glass P-DW is applied to the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1, a portion of the applied preliminary cover glass P-DW can protrude in a direction away from the display panel DP.

[0173] In embodiments of this invention, the initial cover glass P-DW may include a flat portion FSP and a protruding portion RSP. The upper surface FS-FSP of the flat portion FSP may be a flat surface with its normal direction as a third direction D3. The flat portion FSP may overlap with the display panel DP.

[0174] The upper surface of the protruding portion RSP can be a protruding surface RS-RSP that protrudes in the third direction D3. A portion of the protruding portion RSP may not overlap with the display panel DP. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a portion of the protruding portion RSP may overlap with the display panel DP.

[0175] On the plane, the protruding portion RSP can be spaced apart from the optical component ARU1, and the flat portion FSP is located between the protruding portion RSP and the optical component ARU1.

[0176] A protruding portion RSP can be formed in the edge portion of the preliminary cover glass P-DW. The ratio of the width of the flat portion FSP to the width of the protruding portion RSP can vary depending on the material included in the preliminary cover glass P-DW. In embodiments, for example, the ratio of the width of the flat portion FSP to the width of the protruding portion RSP can vary due to the surface tension of the preliminary cover glass P-DW, depending on the material included in the preliminary cover glass P-DW.

[0177] In an embodiment, the width of the protruding portion RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW can be, for example, about 5 mm or less.

[0178] The materials included in the preliminary cover glass P-DW can have physical properties comparable to those of glass. Coating methods for the preliminary cover glass P-DW can include valve-based spraying (jet printing), slit-based coating (slit coating), and inkjet printing. However, the coating methods are not limited to these, and various methods can be used to coat the preliminary cover glass P-DW onto the preliminary dummy component P-ARU2 and the optical component ARU1.

[0179] In this way, a display panel assembly (DPA) can be formed. The display panel assembly (DPA) may include a display panel (DP), a preliminary cover glass (P-DW), a preliminary dummy component (P-ARU2), an optical component (ARU1), and a first adhesive layer (AM1). The display panel assembly (DPA) can be mounted on a second STG2.

[0180] Reference Figure 9E and Figure 9F This process can remove a portion of the initial cover glass P-DW and a portion of the initial dummy component P-ARU2. Specifically, it can remove the protruding portion RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW and the second dummy portion P2-ARU2 of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 that overlaps with the protruding portion RSP. Additionally, it can also remove the light-blocking pattern BM corresponding to the protruding portion RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW and the second dummy portion P2-ARU2 of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 that overlaps with the protruding portion RSP. The initial dummy component P-ARU2 may include: a first dummy portion P1-ARU2, and a non-display area DP-NDA (refer to...). Figure 3 The two dummy portions P1-ARU2 overlap and the opening OP-ARU is defined in the first dummy portion P1-ARU2; the second dummy portion P2-ARU2 extends from the first dummy portion P1-ARU2 in a direction away from the opening OP-ARU and does not overlap with the display panel DP.

[0181] In an embodiment of this utility model, the protruding portion RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW and the second dummy portion P2-ARU2 of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 can be removed by the second laser (laser) LZ2.

[0182] The cover glass DW can be formed by removing the protruding portion RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW. The surface quality of the cover glass DW can be improved by ensuring that it consists only of the flat portion FSP.

[0183] The width W-ARU2 of one side of the preliminary dummy member P-ARU2 can be from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In addition, the distance between the inner and outer surfaces of the defining opening OP-ARU of the preliminary dummy member P-ARU2 can be from about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0184] When the width of one side of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 is made to be about 5 mm to about 10 mm, the protruding part RSP of the initial cover glass P-DW can be completely removed.

[0185] Furthermore, even if the width W-ARU2 on one side of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 is made from about 5 mm to about 10 mm to remove the second dummy portion P2-ARU2, the first dummy portion P1-ARU2 is retained, and therefore the optical component ARU1 can be left unremoved.

[0186] Furthermore, when the width W-ARU2 of one side of the initial dummy component P-ARU2 is made to be approximately 5 mm to approximately 10 mm, the second dummy portion P2-ARU2 can be removed by the second laser (laser) LZ2. After removing the second dummy portion P2-ARU2, the remaining first dummy portion P1-ARU2 can form the dummy component ARU2.

[0187] In the display device of the present invention, the driver chip can be safely set (e.g., mounted) on the board without cracking or damage.

[0188] The display device in the embodiments of this utility model can realize an ultra-small display device and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0189] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described, it is understood that the present invention should not be limited to these embodiments, but rather that various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art as described in the spirit and scope of the present invention as claimed. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the content described in the specific embodiments of the specification, but should be determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A display panel assembly, characterized by The display panel assembly includes: a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a preliminary cover glass disposed on the display panel; an optical member disposed between the preliminary cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the display area; and a preliminary dummy member disposed between the preliminary cover glass and the display panel and defining an opening in the preliminary dummy member that accommodates the optical member, the preliminary dummy member including: a first dummy portion overlapping the non-display area and in which the opening is defined; and a second dummy portion extending from the first dummy portion in a direction away from the opening and not overlapping the display panel.

2. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The preliminary cover glass is in direct contact with the optical member and the preliminary dummy member.

3. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The preliminary dummy member and the optical member are members of different materials.

4. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The preliminary dummy member has a light transmittance less than or equal to a light transmittance of the optical member.

5. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, A sum of a first width of the first dummy portion and a second width of the second dummy portion is 5 to 10 mm.

6. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The display panel assembly further includes an adhesive member disposed between the optical member and the display panel.

7. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The display panel assembly further includes an electronic module disposed below the display panel, wherein the electronic module overlaps the first dummy portion and the electronic module does not overlap the optical member.

8. The display panel assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first dummy portion includes a protrusion that protrudes toward the optical member, the optical member includes a recess corresponding to the protrusion, and the electronic module overlaps the protrusion in a plan view.

9. The display panel assembly of claim 1, wherein, The preliminary cover glass includes: a flat portion having an upper surface defined as a flat surface by a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a protruding portion connected to the flat portion and having an upper surface defined as a protruding surface protruding in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and the flat portion overlaps the first dummy portion and the protruding portion overlaps the second dummy portion.

10. A display device, characterized by comprising: The display device includes: a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a cover glass disposed on the display panel; an optical member disposed between the cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the display area; a dummy member in which an opening that accommodates the optical member is defined, the dummy member being disposed between the cover glass and the display panel and overlapping the non-display area; and an adhesive member disposed between the optical member and the display panel.

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