Display device

Abstract

The present application relates to a display device including a shaft extending in a first direction and including: a first semi-ring portion having a curvature from a first end portion to a second end portion opposite to the first end portion on a plane perpendicular to the first direction; and a second semi-ring portion having a curvature in the plane from a third end portion to a fourth end portion opposite the third end portion. The third end portion and the fourth end portion of the second semi-ring portion are connected to the first end portion and the second end portion of the first semi-ring portion, respectively. The display device includes a groove disposed adjacent a first end portion of the first semi-ring portion. The display device includes a base layer including a protrusion fitted into the groove.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to and all benefits arising therefrom of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0045569, filed on April 3, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] One or more embodiments relate to a display device, and more specifically, to a rollable display device for which the defect rate is reduced. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices have become widely used recently. They are used in various ways, such as mobile electronic devices and fixed electronic devices. Such electronic devices may include display devices capable of providing users with visual information such as images or videos to support various functions.

[0005] Typically, a display device may include a display module capable of displaying images. Such a display device can be used in various fields and can be customized to specific characteristics depending on the usage environment. For example, a curved display device that bends at a preset curvature, a foldable display device that can be folded around a specific folding axis, or a rollable display device that can be rolled up around a virtual axis can possess flexible characteristics. In the case of such conventional display devices, defects may occur due to the stress that arises when utilizing this function.

[0006] Background art refers to technical information owned by the inventor that was used to derive this disclosure or obtained during the deriving of this disclosure, and is not necessarily known technology that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this disclosure. Utility Model Content

[0007] One or more embodiments include a rollable display device in which the defect rate is reduced.

[0008] However, the reduction in defect incidence is just an example, and the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0009] Other aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments presented in this disclosure.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a shaft extending in a first direction and including a first semi-circular portion having curvature from a first end portion to a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in a plane perpendicular to the first direction, and a second semi-circular portion having curvature from a third end portion to a fourth end portion opposite to the third end portion in a plane, wherein the third end portion and the fourth end portion of the second semi-circular portion are respectively connected to the first end portion and the second end portion of the first semi-circular portion; a groove arranged adjacent to the first end portion of the first semi-circular portion and recessed from the outer surface of the first semi-circular portion in the thickness direction of the first semi-circular portion; a base layer configured to overlap the first end portion, the first semi-circular portion and the second semi-circular portion from the first end portion in a wound state of the display device, the base layer including a protrusion fitted into the groove; and a display module disposed on the base layer.

[0011] In one implementation, the width of the groove can increase from the outer surface to the inner surface of the first semi-circular portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the groove may have a trapezoidal shape, and the protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape corresponding to the shape of the groove.

[0013] In one embodiment, the thickness of the third end portion of the second semi-ring portion may be greater than the thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion, and the second semi-ring portion may have a stepped surface at the third end portion relative to the first semi-ring portion, the thickness of which may be greater than the thickness of the first end portion.

[0014] In one embodiment, the base layer can be fixed to the second half-ring portion by an adhesive layer between the base layer and the stepped surfaces of the second half-ring portion.

[0015] In an implementation, the difference between the thickness of the third end portion of the second semi-ring portion and the thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion and the sum of the thickness of the base layer and the thickness of the display module can be 40 μm or less.

[0016] In one implementation, the display module may include: a display panel configured to display an image; and a cover window configured to cover the display panel.

[0017] In some implementations, the display module may also include a protective film between the display panel and the base layer.

[0018] In one embodiment, the outer surfaces of the second end portion of the first semi-ring portion and the fourth end portion of the second semi-ring portion, which are connected to each other, can form a continuous surface.

[0019] In one embodiment, the thickness of the shaft can vary continuously from the first end portion of the first half-ring portion to the second end portion of the first half-ring portion, and the thickness of the shaft can vary continuously from the fourth end portion of the second half-ring portion to the third end portion of the second half-ring portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, the thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion may be less than the thickness of the second end portion of the first semi-ring portion.

[0021] In an embodiment, the thickness of the fourth end portion of the second half-ring portion may be less than the thickness of the third end portion of the second half-ring portion.

[0022] In this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the first semi-ring portion and the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the second semi-ring portion can each change continuously.

[0023] In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the first semi-ring portion at the first end portion may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the individual outer surface of the first semi-ring portion at the second end portion.

[0024] In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the second semi-ring portion at the fourth end portion may be smaller than the radius of curvature of the outer surface of the second semi-ring portion at the third end portion.

[0025] In an implementation, the base layer may include: a basic layer; and a plurality of support members arranged parallel to each other within the basic layer and each extending in a first direction.

[0026] In some embodiments, the base layer may include silicone or polyurethane acrylate.

[0027] In an implementation, the base layer may include a dummy region and a support region connected to the dummy region. Protrusions are arranged in the dummy region, and in the wound state of the display device, the dummy region may be wound around the axis once or multiple times. The number of times the dummy region is wound around the axis may be based on the length of the dummy region.

[0028] In this implementation, multiple support members may not be arranged in the dummy area, but may be arranged in the support area.

[0029] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a shaft including a central shaft, a first end portion, a stepped surface, and an outer surface, the outer surface having a helical shape when viewed in the direction of the central shaft, and including one rotation relative to the central shaft from the first end portion to the stepped surface; a groove formed recessedly from the outer surface of the shaft in the thickness direction at the first end portion; a base layer fitted into the groove and configured to overlap the outer surface of the shaft in a wound state of the display device; and a display module disposed on the base layer.

[0030] Other aspects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood through the detailed description, claims, and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of the display device according to the embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 It is according to the implementation method along Figure 1 The line II-II' intercepted Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment, and may be similar to... Figure 2 ;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display portion according to the embodiment;

[0036] Figure 5 It is a schematic perspective view of the basic layer according to the implementation method; and

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display panel according to the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals always denote similar elements. In this respect, embodiments may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Therefore, embodiments are described herein solely by reference to the accompanying drawings to illustrate various aspects of this specification. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0039] Because this specification allows for various modifications and numerous implementations, certain implementations will be shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the written description. The effects and features of this disclosure, as well as methods of achieving them, will be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented in various forms.

[0040] In the following description, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0041] In the following implementation, the terms “first” and “second” are used without limitation and are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0042] The singular form used in this article is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] It will also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein specify the presence of a stated feature or element, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or elements.

[0044] It will also be understood that when a layer, area, or element is referred to as being "on" another layer, area, or element, this can be directly on the other layer, area, or element, but it can also be an intermediate layer, area, or element between them.

[0045] Given the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity, the terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein include the value and include a suitable range of deviations from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the term “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations of the value or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5%.

[0046] As used herein, the term "substantially" means approximately or actually. The term "substantially equal" means approximately equal or actually equal. The term "substantially identical" means approximately identical or actually identical. The term "substantially perpendicular" means approximately perpendicular or actually perpendicular. The term "substantially parallel" means approximately parallel or actually parallel.

[0047] In some respects, the dimensions of elements in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated or reduced for ease of illustration. For example, since the dimensions and thicknesses of elements in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for ease of illustration, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0048] The x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0049] When implementing a particular embodiment differently, the specific process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described herein. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in the reverse order of their description.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of the display device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0051] refer to Figure 1 The display device 1 according to the embodiment can be a rollable display device. Specifically, the display device 1 according to the embodiment may include a shaft ST and a display portion DP that can be wound around the shaft ST in the form of a roll. That is, Figure 1 The following diagram shows the display device 1 with the display portion DP unfolded (also referred to herein as display device 1 or the unwound state of the display portion DP).

[0052] The shaft ST can be attached to one end of the display portion DP, and the display portion DP can be wound around the shaft ST. The display portion DP can be flexible. The following description focuses on the display portion DP.

[0053] Display device 1 may include a display area DA in which an image is implemented and a non-display area NDA in which no image is implemented. Display device 1 can provide an image by means of an array of multiple sub-pixels arranged two-dimensionally in the display area DA on the xy plane. Sub-pixels can emit different colors. For example, each sub-pixel can be one of a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel.

[0054] In an implementation, a sub-pixel may include a first sub-pixel, a second sub-pixel, and a third sub-pixel. For ease of explanation, the following description assumes that the first sub-pixel is red, the second sub-pixel is green, and the third sub-pixel is blue; however, the implementation of this disclosure is not limited to this.

[0055] The first sub-pixel, the second sub-pixel, and the third sub-pixel are areas in which red light (Lr), green light (Lg), and blue light (Lb) are emitted, and the display device 1 can provide an image by using the emitted light.

[0056] The non-display area NDA is an area in which no image is provided and may surround at least a portion of the display area DA. In some embodiments, the non-display area NDA may completely surround the display area DA. Drivers or main voltage lines configured to provide electrical signals or power to pixel circuitry may be arranged in the non-display area NDA. Pads PAD, which are areas where electronic devices or printed circuit boards can be electrically connected, may be arranged in the non-display area NDA.

[0057] like Figure 1As shown, the display area DA can have a polygonal shape, including a rectangular shape. For example, the display area DA can have a rectangular shape in which the horizontal length is greater than the vertical length, a rectangular shape in which the horizontal length is less than the vertical length, or a square shape. In another embodiment, the display area DA can have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or other polygonal shapes such as, for example, a triangular shape or a pentagonal shape. In some aspects, Figure 1 The display device 1 is shown as an example of a rollable display device, but the display device 1 can be implemented in various forms, such as, for example, flexible, foldable or flat display devices.

[0058] In one embodiment, display device 1 may be an organic light-emitting display device. In another embodiment, display device 1 may be an inorganic light-emitting display device or a quantum dot light-emitting display device. For example, the emitting layer of the display element included in the display device may include organic materials, inorganic materials, or quantum dots; it may include organic materials and quantum dots; it may include inorganic materials and quantum dots; or it may include organic materials, inorganic materials, and quantum dots. In the following description, for ease of explanation, a detailed description is given focusing on the case where display device 1 is an organic light-emitting display device.

[0059] Figure 2 It is according to the implementation method along Figure 1 The line II-II' intercepted Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device 1. In some aspects, Figure 2 The diagram shows the state in which the display portion DP is partially wound around the axis ST (also referred to herein as the display device 1 or the partially wound state of the display portion DP). It should be understood that the description of the partially wound state herein supports the fully wound state of the display device 1 or the display portion DP. Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device 1 according to the embodiment, and may include a reference. Figure 2 The aspects described. In some aspects, Figure 3 This shows the state where the display portion DP is not wound around the axis ST.

[0060] refer to Figure 2 The shaft ST can have a cylindrical shape with a hollow interior. Specifically, the shaft ST can be in the first direction (e.g., Figure 2 It extends in the x-direction. In some embodiments, the shaft ST has a hollow interior, and therefore, the shaft ST can have a substantially annular shape in a section perpendicular to the first direction. In another embodiment, the shaft ST can have a filled interior instead of a hollow interior. In the following description, for ease of explanation, the case where the shaft ST has a hollow interior is given.

[0061] In an embodiment, the shaft ST may include a first semi-ring portion 10 and a second semi-ring portion 20. The first semi-ring portion 10 and the second semi-ring portion 20 may each have a semi-ring shape to constitute the shaft ST. That is, as... Figure 2 As shown in the cross-section, the first semi-circular portion 10 may be on one side of the axis ST (e.g., on the right side of the axis ST) relative to the center line CL of the central axis AX passing through the axis ST. Figure 2 The semi-ring on the +y direction side. In some aspects, such as Figure 2 As shown in the cross-section, the second semi-circular portion 20 may be on the other side of the axis ST (e.g., on the left side of the axis ST) relative to the center line CL passing through the center axis AX of the axis ST. Figure 2 The semi-ring on the -y direction side).

[0062] The first semi-ring portion 10 may have a first end portion 11 and a second end portion 12. The first end portion 11 may be one end portion of the semi-ring, for example, the upper end portion ( Figure 2 (The +z direction side). The second end portion 12 can be the other end portion of the semi-ring facing the first end portion 11, for example, the lower end portion ( Figure 2 (in the -z direction). That is, the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 can refer to the two end portions of the first semi-ring portion 10, respectively. The central angle between the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 can be approximately 180°.

[0063] The second semi-ring portion 20 may have a third end portion 21 and a fourth end portion 22. The third end portion 21 may be one end portion of the semi-ring, for example, the upper end portion ( Figure 2 (The +z direction side). The fourth end portion 22 can be the other end portion of the semi-ring facing the third end portion 21, for example, the lower end portion ( Figure 2 (in the -z direction). That is, the third end portion 21 and the fourth end portion 22 can refer to the two end portions of the second semi-ring portion 20, respectively. The central angle between the third end portion 21 and the fourth end portion 22 can be approximately 180°.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first semi-ring portion 10 and the second semi-ring portion 20 can be connected to each other. Specifically, the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20 can be connected to each other, and the second end portion 12 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the fourth end portion 22 of the second semi-ring portion 20 can be connected to each other. Thus, for example, the first semi-ring portion 10 and the second semi-ring portion 20 can be connected to each other and have a substantially annular shape. To more easily describe the shape and configuration of the shaft ST, the first semi-ring portion 10 and the second semi-ring portion 20 are described as separate configurations, but the first semi-ring portion 10 and the second semi-ring portion 20 can be formed as a single unit.

[0065] In the cross-sectional view, the inner surface of the first semi-annular portion 10 can form the hollow interior of the shaft ST and can be curved into a semi-circular shape with a constant radius of curvature R0. In some aspects, the inner surface of the second semi-annular portion 20 can form the hollow interior of the shaft ST and can be curved into a semi-circular shape with a constant radius of curvature R0. That is, the inner surfaces of the first semi-annular portion 10 and the second semi-annular portion 20 can be connected to each other and can have a circular shape with the same radius of curvature R0, such that the inner surfaces serve as continuously curved surfaces.

[0066] In some embodiments, in a cross-sectional view, the outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10 may form a continuous curved surface. The outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10 may be curved such that the radius of curvature R1 (e.g., in a clockwise direction) gradually increases from the first end portion 11 to the second end portion 12. In other words, the thickness T1 of the first semi-annular portion 10 may vary such that the thickness T1 (e.g., in a clockwise direction) gradually increases from the first end portion 11 to the second end portion 12. That is, the thickness T1 of the first semi-annular portion 10 at the second end portion 12 may be greater than the thickness T1 of the first semi-annular portion 10 at the first end portion 11.

[0067] In some embodiments, in a cross-sectional view, the outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10 may form a continuous curved surface. The outer surface of the second semi-annular portion 20 may be curved such that the radius of curvature R2 (e.g., in a clockwise direction) gradually increases from the fourth end portion 22 to the third end portion 21. In other words, the thickness T2 of the second semi-annular portion 20 may vary such that the thickness T2 (e.g., in a clockwise direction) gradually increases from the fourth end portion 22 to the third end portion 21. That is, the thickness T2 of the second semi-annular portion 20 at the third end portion 21 may be greater than the thickness T2 of the second semi-annular portion 20 at the fourth end portion 22.

[0068] In some embodiments, the outer surfaces of the second end portion 12 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the fourth end portion 22 of the second semi-ring portion 20, which are connected to each other, can form a continuous surface. That is, the shaft ST can be formed such that no step is formed between the outer surfaces of the second end portion 12 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the fourth end portion 22 of the second semi-ring portion 20. For example, the portions of the second end portion 12 and the fourth end portion 22 that contact each other can have the same radius of curvature. Therefore, for example, the thickness of the shaft ST can vary continuously over the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 of the first semi-ring portion 10, and the thickness of the shaft ST can vary continuously over the fourth end portion 22 and the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20. Therefore, for example, when viewed in the direction of the central axis AX, the outer surface of the shaft ST can have a helical shape and include at least one rotation relative to the central axis AX from the first end portion 11 to the stepped surface SS.

[0069] In some embodiments, the outer surfaces of the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20, which are connected to each other, can form discontinuous surfaces. Specifically, for example, the shaft ST is formed to have a thickness that increases continuously (in a clockwise direction) from the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10 to the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20, wherein, at the portion where the first end portion 11 and the third end portion 21 contact each other, the thickness T2 of the third end portion 21 can be greater than the thickness T1 of the first end portion 11. Therefore, the second semi-ring portion 20 can have a stepped surface SS at the third end portion 21 relative to the first semi-ring portion 10, and the thickness of the stepped surface SS can be greater than the thickness of the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10. In some embodiments, the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20 can correspond to the difference between the thickness of the third end portion 21 and the thickness of the first end portion 11. As described herein, the display portion DP can be connected to and fixed to the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20.

[0070] In one embodiment, the first semi-annular portion 10 may include a groove GV. The groove GV may be arranged adjacent to the first end portion 11. The groove GV may be recessed in the thickness direction of the first semi-annular portion 10 (e.g., from the outer surface to the inner surface of the first semi-annular portion 10), and may be recessed in a first direction (e.g., Figure 2 It extends in the x-direction. The protrusion PT of the display portion DP, as described herein, can be fitted into the groove GV.

[0071] In embodiments, the groove GV may widen in the thickness direction of the first semi-annular portion 10 (e.g., from the outer surface to the inner surface of the first semi-annular portion 10). For example, the groove GV may have a trapezoidal shape, and the width of the groove GV may increase in the thickness direction. However, it will be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, the groove GV may have a circular shape or may be configured as other polygonal shapes. Therefore, configuring the groove GV as a trapezoidal shape, a circular shape, or other polygonal shape, and configuring the protrusion PT as a shape corresponding to the groove GV as described herein, can further increase the fastening force between the groove GV and the protrusion PT coupled to the groove GV.

[0072] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The display shows that the DP portion can be wound around the ST axis. Figure 2 An example is shown in which a portion of the DP is in a wound state (partially wound or fully wound), and Figure 3 An example is shown in which the display portion DP is in an unwound state. The display portion DP can be arranged such that it wraps around the first half-ring portion 10 and the second half-ring portion 20 from the first end portion 11 of the first half-ring portion 10 (e.g., in a clockwise direction). The display portion DP may include a base layer 30 and a display module 40 disposed on the base layer 30.

[0073] In some aspects, the display portion DP may include a dummy region DP1 and a support region DP2 connected to the dummy region DP1. One end portion of the dummy region DP1 (e.g., Figure 3 The dummy region DP1 (on the -y direction side) can be fixed to the upper portion of the first end portion 11 of the first half-ring portion 10. In an embodiment, the end portion of the dummy region DP1 can be fixed to the stepped surface SS of the second half-ring portion 20. For example, the adhesive layer AD can be between the end portion of the dummy region DP1 (e.g., the end portion of the display module 40 and the end portion of the base layer 30) and the stepped surface SS of the second half-ring portion 20. Therefore, the end portion (one end portion) of the dummy region DP1 can be bonded to the stepped surface SS.

[0074] In some embodiments, the thickness of the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20 (i.e., the difference between the thickness of the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20 and the thickness of the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10) can correspond to the thickness of the display portion DP, i.e., the sum of the thickness of the base layer 30 and the thickness of the display module 40. For example, the difference between the thickness of the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20 and the thickness of the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10 and the sum of the thickness of the base layer 30 and the thickness of the display module 40 can be 40 μm or less.

[0075] In some embodiments, the difference between the thickness of the third end portion 21 of the second semi-ring portion 20 and the thickness of the first end portion 11 of the first semi-ring portion 10 can be 40 μm greater than or less than the sum of the thickness of the base layer 30 and the thickness of the display module 40. Specifically, for example, the difference can be 10 μm greater than or less than the sum of the thickness of the base layer 30 and the thickness of the display module 40. More specifically, the difference can be equal to the sum of the thickness of the base layer 30 and the thickness of the display module 40. Therefore, the display portion DP can be smoothly connected to and fixed to the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20 without forming a step on the outer surface of the second semi-ring portion 20.

[0076] In some aspects, the protrusion PT can be formed on the lower surface of the display portion DP (i.e., the lower surface of the base layer 30). Figure 3 On the -z direction surface. In some aspects, the lower surface of the base layer 30 may refer to the surface facing the outer surface of the first semi-ring portion 10.

[0077] The protrusion PT can protrude toward the outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10, and can be in a first direction (e.g., Figure 3 Extending in the x-direction, it can be positioned adjacent to one end portion of the dummy region DP1. In some aspects, the protrusion PT can be formed at a position facing the groove GV of the first semi-annular portion 10, such that the protrusion PT corresponds to the groove GV of the first semi-annular portion 10, and the protrusion PT can be fitted into the groove GV of the first semi-annular portion 10. The protrusion PT can be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove GV. For example, the protrusion PT can have a trapezoidal shape, and the width of the protrusion PT can increase in the protruding direction.

[0078] Therefore, without a separate component such as an attachment film disposed on the outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10, the display portion DP (particularly the base layer 30) can be securely fixed to the shaft ST. In some aspects, embodiments of this disclosure may include attaching the display portion DP to the shaft ST, for example, without an attachment film disposed between the outer surface of the first semi-annular portion 10 and the display portion DP, and thus, no step may occur between the shaft ST and the display portion DP. In a comparative example in which a step is formed between the shaft ST and the display portion DP and the display portion DP is wound around the shaft ST, stress may be applied to the portion where the step is formed, resulting in damage to the display module 40 of the display portion DP. As described herein, embodiments of this disclosure include preventing the formation of a step when the display portion DP is wound around the shaft ST, thereby preventing damage and / or wrinkling of the display portion DP due to the formation of such a step.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, besides the description of fixing the display portion DP to the first semi-ring portion 10 via the protrusion PT, the focus is on the engagement and fixing of one end portion of the display portion DP to the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in another embodiment, the end portion of the display portion DP is not engaged to the stepped surface SS of the second semi-ring portion 20, but can be fixed to the first semi-ring portion 10 via the protrusion PT (e.g., only via the protrusion PT).

[0080] In some embodiments, the dummy region DP1 may be wound around the outer surface of the shaft ST, starting from the first end portion 11 of the first half-ring portion 10. In some embodiments, similar to the dummy region DP1, the support region DP2 connected to the dummy region DP1 may also be wound around the outer surface of the shaft ST. In some embodiments, the dummy region DP1 may surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaft ST. For example, in the wound state of the display device 1 (e.g., the wound state of the display portion DP), the dummy region DP1 may overlap with and surround a portion of the outer surface of the shaft ST (e.g., half of the outer surface of the shaft ST), and the support region DP2 may overlap with and surround another portion of the outer surface of the shaft ST (e.g., the remaining half of the outer surface of the shaft ST). In some embodiments, the dummy region DP1 may cover less than half of the outer surface of the shaft ST, and the support region DP2 may overlap with and surround the remaining portion of the outer surface of the shaft ST. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the dummy region DP1 may overlap with and surround the shaft ST (i.e., the first half-ring portion 10 and the second half-ring portion 20) once or more, such that the support region DP2 may not be in direct contact with the shaft ST. Therefore, for example, the dummy region DP1 may be wound around the shaft ST (i.e., the first half-ring portion 10 and the second half-ring portion 20) once or more. In some aspects, the number of times the dummy region DP1 is wound around the shaft ST in the wound state of the display device 1 (e.g., the wound state of the display portion DP) may be based on the length of the dummy region DP1. As described herein, the support member 32 may be arranged in the support region DP2, and the support member 32 may not be arranged in the dummy region DP1. For example, in some embodiments, (such as...) Figure 4 As shown, the support member 32 can be arranged only in the support area DP2. Therefore, the adhesion between the shaft ST and the dummy area DP1 that is in direct contact with the shaft ST can be improved.

[0081] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display portion DP according to the embodiment. Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of the base layer 30 according to the implementation method.

[0082] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The display portion DP may include a base layer 30 and a display module 40 disposed on the base layer 30. In some aspects, the display module 40 may include a display panel 41, a protective film 42, and a cover window 43.

[0083] The base layer 30 can support the display module 40 and may include a base layer 31 and a plurality of support members 32. The support members 32 can be arranged in the base layer 31 such that they are spaced apart from each other and parallel to each other. Each of the support members 32 can be positioned in a first direction (…). Figure 4 It extends in the x-direction.

[0084] like Figure 5 As shown, the width 31W of the base layer 31 in the first direction can be substantially equal to the length 32L of each of the support members 32 in the first direction. Therefore, the two end surfaces of each of the support members 32 can form a continuous surface with the side surface of the base layer 31. This description of the two end surfaces of each of the support members 32 forming a continuous surface with the side surface of the base layer 31 means that the two end surfaces of each of the support members 32 are not located within the base layer 31 but are exposed to the outside. In another embodiment, the two end surfaces of each of the support members 32 can protrude and not form a continuous surface with the side surface of the base layer 31. That is, the length 32L of each of the support members 32 in the first direction can be greater than the width 31W of the base layer 31 in the first direction. Therefore, the two end portions of each of the support members 32 can protrude from the side surface of the base layer 31.

[0085] As described herein, in embodiments, the display portion DP can be implemented without being arranged in or including support members 32 in the dummy region DP1. That is, in the dummy region DP1, the base layer 30 may include the base layer 31 and may not have support members 32. For example, in the dummy region DP1, the base layer 30 may consist only of the base layer 31. Therefore, in the dummy region DP1 which is in direct contact with the shaft ST, the adhesion between the base layer 30 and the outer surface of the shaft ST can be improved. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the base layer 30 may include multiple support members 32 in the dummy region DP1.

[0086] In some embodiments, the modulus of the base layer 31 may be lower than that of each of the support members 32. Thus, for example, the base layer 31 may comprise silicone or a curable resin such as, for example, polyurethane acrylate, and the support members 32 may each comprise metal or carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The support members 32 can prevent the display portion DP from sagging by supporting it in an unwound state. In some aspects, the support members 32 can prevent the display module 40 from deforming as the display portion DP is wound around the axis ST.

[0087] Display panel 41 can be disposed on base layer 30. Display panel 41 can display images on its upper surface (e.g., on the back surface of the surface facing base layer 30). Display panel 41 may include display areas and non-display areas. Pixel circuitry and display elements electrically connected to the pixel circuitry can be arranged in the display areas, and scan drive circuitry or drivers can be arranged in the non-display areas. Similar to base layer 30, display panel 41 can be flexible. (See below for reference.) Figure 4 Detailed description of display panel 41.

[0088] A protective film 42 may be disposed between the display panel 41 and the base layer 30. Specifically, the protective film 42 protects the display panel 41 from impacts. In some embodiments, the protective film 42 may comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0089] In some aspects, the cover window 43 can be configured such that it covers the display panel 41 and protects the display panel 41 from external impacts. The cover window 43 can be arranged on the opposite side of the protective film 42, and the display panel 41 is located between the cover window 43 and the protective film 42.

[0090] The cover window 43 may be, for example, a flexible window. The cover window 43 can be easily bent by external forces without causing cracks, thereby protecting the display panel 41. The cover window 43 may include at least one of glass, sapphire, or plastic. The cover window 43 may include, for example, ultrathin glass or colorless polyimide. In one embodiment, the cover window 43 may have a structure in which a flexible polymer layer is disposed on one side of a glass substrate. In another embodiment, the cover window 43 may consist only of a polymer layer.

[0091] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display panel 41 according to the embodiment.

[0092] refer to Figure 6 The display panel 41 may include a substrate 100, a display layer DSL, and an encapsulation layer 300.

[0093] The display layer DSL can be disposed on the substrate 100. The display layer DSL may include a buffer layer 111, a pixel circuit layer PCL, and a display element layer DEL.

[0094] Substrate 100 may comprise glass or a polymeric resin such as, for example, polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, or cellulose acetate propionate. Substrate 100 comprising a polymeric resin may be flexible, rollable, or bendable. Substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure comprising a barrier layer (not shown) and a base layer comprising the polymeric resin described herein.

[0095] The buffer layer 111 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as, for example, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, or silicon oxide, and may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the inorganic insulating material described herein.

[0096] The pixel circuit layer PCL can be disposed on the buffer layer 111. The pixel circuit layer PCL can include transistor TFTs included in the pixel circuit, and can include an inorganic insulating layer IIL, a first planarization layer 115 and a second planarization layer 116 disposed below and / or above the transistor TFTs. The inorganic insulating layer IIL can include a first gate insulating layer 112, a second gate insulating layer 113 and an interlayer insulating layer 114.

[0097] The transistor TFT may include a semiconductor layer A, and semiconductor layer A may include polycrystalline silicon. Optionally, semiconductor layer A may include amorphous silicon, oxide semiconductor, or organic semiconductor. Semiconductor layer A may include a channel region and drain and source regions located on opposite sides of the channel region, respectively. The gate electrode G may overlap with the channel region.

[0098] The gate electrode G may comprise a low-resistance metallic material. The gate electrode G may comprise a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti), and may comprise a single layer or multiple layers comprising the conductive materials described herein.

[0099] The first gate insulating layer 112 between semiconductor layer A and gate electrode G may include an inorganic insulating material, such as, for example, silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2) or zinc oxide (ZnO) x Zinc oxide (ZnO) x It can be ZnO and / or ZnO2.

[0100] The second gate insulating layer 113 may cover the gate electrode G. Similar to the first gate insulating layer 112, the second gate insulating layer 113 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as, for example, silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2) or zinc oxide (ZnO) x Zinc oxide (ZnO) x It can be ZnO and / or ZnO2.

[0101] The upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst can be disposed on the second gate insulating layer 113. The upper electrode CE2 can overlap with the lower gate electrode G. In this case, the gate electrode G and the upper electrode CE2 can constitute the storage capacitor Cst, with the gate electrode G and the upper electrode CE2 overlapping each other, and the second gate insulating layer 113 between the gate electrode G and the upper electrode CE2. That is, the gate electrode G can serve as the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst. As described herein, the storage capacitor Cst and the transistor TFT can overlap each other. In some embodiments, the storage capacitor Cst may not overlap with the transistor TFT.

[0102] The upper electrode CE2 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and may include a single layer or multiple layers comprising the materials described herein.

[0103] The interlayer insulating layer 114 may cover the upper electrode CE2. The interlayer insulating layer 114 may include silicon oxide (SiO2) or silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2) or zinc oxide (ZnO) x Zinc oxide (ZnO) x The interlayer insulation layer 114 may be a single layer or multiple layers comprising the inorganic insulating material described herein.

[0104] Drain electrode D and source electrode S can be disposed on interlayer insulating layer 114. Drain electrode D and source electrode S can each comprise a material with good conductivity. Drain electrode D and source electrode S can each comprise a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti), and can each comprise a single layer or multiple layers comprising the conductive materials described herein. In an embodiment, drain electrode D and source electrode S can each have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0105] The first planarization layer 115 may be configured such that it covers the drain electrode D and the source electrode S. The first planarization layer 115 may include an organic insulating material. The first planarization layer 115 may include an organic insulating material selected from general polymers such as, for example, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives having phenolic groups, acrylic acid-based polymers, imide-based polymers, aromatic ether-based polymers, amide-based polymers, fluorine-based polymers, p-xylene-based polymers, vinyl alcohol-based polymers, and any mixtures thereof.

[0106] A connection electrode CML may be disposed on the first planarization layer 115. In some embodiments, the connection electrode CML may be connected to the drain electrode D or the source electrode S through contact holes in the first planarization layer 115. The connection electrode CML may comprise a material with good conductivity. The connection electrode CML may comprise a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti), and may comprise a single layer or multiple layers comprising the conductive materials described herein. In embodiments, the connection electrode CML may have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0107] The second planarization layer 116 may be configured such that it covers the connection electrode CML. The second planarization layer 116 may include an organic insulating layer. The second planarization layer 116 may include an organic insulating material selected from general polymers such as, for example, PMMA or PS, polymer derivatives having phenol groups, acrylic acid-based polymers, imide-based polymers, aromatic ether-based polymers, amide-based polymers, fluorine-based polymers, p-xylene-based polymers, vinyl alcohol-based polymers, and any mixtures thereof.

[0108] The display element layer DEL can be disposed on the pixel circuit layer PCL. The display element layer DEL can include display elements DE. The display element DE can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The pixel electrode 211 of the display element DE can be electrically connected to the connection electrode CML through the contact hole of the second planarization layer 116.

[0109] Pixel electrode 211 may include a conductive oxide such as, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). In another embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may include a reflective layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or any compound thereof. In another embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may also include a layer comprising ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 above and / or below the reflective layer.

[0110] A pixel defining layer 118 having an opening 118OP exposing the central portion of the pixel electrode 211 can be disposed on the pixel electrode 211. The pixel defining layer 118 may include an organic insulating material and / or an inorganic insulating material. The opening 118OP may define an emission region (hereinafter referred to as the emission region EA) for light emitted from the display element DE. For example, the width of the opening 118OP may correspond to the width of the emission region EA of the display element DE.

[0111] Spacers 119 may be disposed on the pixel defining layer 118. In methods of manufacturing a display device, spacers 119 can prevent damage to the substrate 100. When manufacturing a display panel, a mask may be used. In some embodiments, spacers 119 can prevent defects in which a portion of the substrate 100 is damaged or destroyed by the mask when the mask is inserted into the opening 118OP of the pixel defining layer 118 or when the mask is in close contact with the pixel defining layer 118 and a deposition material is deposited on the substrate 100.

[0112] The spacer 119 may include an organic insulating material such as, for example, polyimide. Alternatively, the spacer 119 may include an inorganic insulating material such as, for example, silicon nitride or silicon oxide, or may include both organic and inorganic insulating materials.

[0113] In one embodiment, the spacer 119 may comprise a material different from that of the pixel defining layer 118. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the spacer 119 may comprise the same material as the pixel defining layer 118. In this case, the pixel defining layer 118 and the spacer 119 may be formed together in a masking process using a halftone mask or the like.

[0114] Intermediate layer 212 may be disposed on pixel defining layer 118. Intermediate layer 212 may include emission layer 212b disposed in opening 118OP of pixel defining layer 118. Emission layer 212b may include high molecular weight organic material or low molecular weight organic material emitting light of a specific color. It should be understood that relative terms such as "high" and "low" may refer to characteristics that satisfy (e.g., greater than or less than) a threshold related to the characteristic.

[0115] The first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c can be disposed below and above the emitter layer 212b, respectively. For example, the first functional layer 212a may include a hole transport layer (HTL), or may include an HTL and a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer 212c may optionally be disposed on the emitter layer 212b. The second functional layer 212c may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). Similar to the opposing electrode 213 described herein, the first functional layer 212a and / or the second functional layer 212c may be a common layer that completely covers the substrate 100.

[0116] The counter electrode 213 may comprise a conductive material having a low work function. For example, the counter electrode 213 may comprise a (semi-)transparent layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or any alloy thereof. Optionally, the counter electrode 213 may also comprise a layer comprising ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 on a (semi-)transparent layer comprising the material described herein.

[0117] In some embodiments, a capping layer (not shown) may be further disposed on the opposing electrode 213. The capping layer may include LiF, inorganic materials, and / or organic materials.

[0118] The encapsulation layer 300 can be disposed on the opposing electrode 213. The encapsulation layer 300 can be disposed on the display element layer DEL and can cover the display element layer DEL. The encapsulation layer 300 may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In an embodiment, Figure 6 The encapsulation layer 300 is shown to include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, which are stacked sequentially in the order stated herein.

[0119] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may each comprise at least one inorganic material selected from aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon nitride. The organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise a polymer-based material. Polymer-based materials may include acrylic resins, epoxy-based resins, polyimides, and polyethylene, etc. In an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise acrylates. The organic encapsulation layer 320 may be formed by curing monomers or applying polymers. The organic encapsulation layer 320 may be transparent.

[0120] Although not shown, a touch sensor layer may be disposed on the encapsulation layer 300, and an optical function layer may be disposed on the touch sensor layer.

[0121] According to one or more embodiments, a rollable display device in which the defect incidence rate is reduced can be realized.

[0122] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described herein, and other effects not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0123] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are to be considered descriptive and not for limiting purposes. Descriptions of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. While one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, include: A shaft, extending in a first direction, and comprising: The first semi-ring portion has a curvature on a plane perpendicular to the first direction, extending from the first end portion to the second end portion opposite to the first end portion. The second semi-ring portion has curvature on the plane from the third end portion to the fourth end portion opposite to the third end portion. Wherein, the third end portion and the fourth end portion of the second half-ring portion are respectively connected to the first end portion and the second end portion of the first half-ring portion; A groove is arranged adjacent to the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion and is formed recessed from the outer surface of the first semi-ring portion in the thickness direction of the first semi-ring portion. A base layer, configured to overlap the first half-ring portion and the second half-ring portion from the first end portion in the wound state of the display device, the base layer including protrusions fitted into the groove; and The display module is located on the base layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The width of the groove increases from the outer surface to the inner surface of the first semi-circular portion.

3. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The groove has a trapezoidal shape, and The protrusion has a trapezoidal shape corresponding to the shape of the groove.

4. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thickness of the third end portion of the second semi-ring portion is greater than the thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion, and The second semi-ring portion includes a stepped surface at the third end portion relative to the first semi-ring portion, wherein the thickness of the stepped surface is greater than the thickness of the first end portion.

5. The display device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base layer is fixed to the second half-ring portion by an adhesive layer between the base layer and the stepped surface of the second half-ring portion.

6. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The difference between the thickness of the third end portion of the second semi-ring portion and the thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring portion and the sum of the thickness of the base layer and the thickness of the display module is 40 μm or less.

7. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surfaces of the second end portion of the first semi-ring portion and the fourth end portion of the second semi-ring portion, which are connected to each other, form a continuous surface.

8. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The thickness of the shaft varies continuously from the first end portion of the first semi-circular portion to the second end portion of the first semi-circular portion. as well as The thickness of the shaft varies continuously from the fourth end portion of the second half-ring portion to the third end portion of the second half-ring portion.

9. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thickness of the first end portion of the first semi-ring is less than the thickness of the second end portion of the first semi-ring.

10. The display device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thickness of the fourth end portion of the second semi-ring portion is less than the thickness of the third end portion of the second semi-ring portion.

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