Display devices and electronic devices

Abstract

A display device and an electronic device are provided. The display device includes: a display panel comprising a foldable and flat first region and a bent second region extending from the first region; an optical functional layer on the first region and at least a portion of the second region and having at least a bent portion; a cover member on the optical functional layer, overlapping the first and second regions and having at least a bent portion; a housing wherein the display panel, the optical functional layer and the cover member are housed; and an elastic member between the housing and the display panel.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0048853, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on April 11, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] One or more embodiments relate to apparatuses, and more specifically, to display apparatuses and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0004] Display panels have become widely used in small electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablet PCs, and other mobile electronic devices. Mobile electronic devices may include display panels that provide users with visual information such as images or videos, and can be provided to support various functions or user interfaces. As the various components used to drive the display panel are miniaturized, the ability of the display panel to provide complex interfaces in electronic devices has become increasingly important, and flexible flat panel display panels have been developed for use in even smaller devices. Utility Model Content

[0005] Folding a foldable display panel within the housing of a display device may cause a change in the position of the display panel's ends within the housing. This relative movement can lead to problems. Specifically, it may be necessary to protect the edge portions of the display panel from external impacts to prevent breakage, and relative movement of the display panel's ends may make this protection more difficult. Additionally, interference may occur between the edges of the display panel and the housing when the display panel is folded. According to aspects of this disclosure, display devices and electronic devices can reduce interference between the display panel and the housing while protecting the display panel from breakage.

[0006] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments presented below.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, a display device includes: a display panel comprising a foldable and flat first region and a bent second region extending from the first region; an optical functional layer disposed on the first region and at least a portion of the second region and having at least a bent portion; a cover member disposed on the optical functional layer, overlapping the first region and the second region and having at least a bent portion; a housing accommodating the display panel, the optical functional layer and the cover member; and an elastic member between the housing and the display panel.

[0008] The display device may also include a protective film disposed on the lower surface of the display panel.

[0009] The protective film may include an opening area corresponding to the boundary between the first region and the second region.

[0010] The second area may not overlap with the display panel relative to its foldable axis.

[0011] The display device may also include a flexible member disposed between the housing and the display panel.

[0012] The elastic member may include a porous member or a member containing an internal cavity.

[0013] The housing may include a mounting groove in which a resilient member is mounted.

[0014] The covering member may include a first covering member disposed on the optical functional layer and overlapping the first region; and a second covering member disposed on the first covering member, overlapping the first region and the second region, and having at least a bent portion.

[0015] The first covering element may be arranged only in the first area.

[0016] The display device may further include a cover member adhesive layer between the first cover member and the second cover member, and a first adhesive member between the first cover member and the optical functional layer, wherein at least a portion of the cover member adhesive layer and at least a portion of the first adhesive member may contact each other in the second region.

[0017] At least a portion of the adhesive layer covering the member and at least a portion of the first adhesive member can be separated from each other in the second region.

[0018] The display device may also include a brush portion disposed between the housing and the second cover member.

[0019] The surface of the housing facing at least the bent portion of the covering member may be inclined or bent.

[0020] The side surface of the housing may include clearance grooves.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments, the display device includes a display panel having a foldable portion, a housing housing the display panel, and an elastic member disposed between the housing and the display panel and including at least one space.

[0022] The display panel may include a flat first area and a curved second area extending from the first area.

[0023] The elastic members can be arranged to correspond to the second region.

[0024] The display device may also include a protective film comprising an opening area overlapping the first region and the second region and disposed below the display panel.

[0025] The opening area may not overlap with the folding axis of the display panel relative to its folding.

[0026] The opening area may include holes or slots.

[0027] The display device may also include an optical functional layer disposed on the display panel and a covering member disposed on the optical functional layer.

[0028] The ends of the adhesive members disposed on the cover member and the ends of the adhesive members disposed on the optical functional layer can contact each other, and at least a portion of the adhesive members disposed on the cover member and at least a portion of the adhesive members disposed on the optical functional layer can be separated from each other.

[0029] The display device may also include a brush disposed between the cover member and the housing.

[0030] The housing may include a mounting groove in which a resilient member is mounted.

[0031] The housing may include clearance grooves at the ends of the display panel that accommodate displacement of the display panel when it is folded.

[0032] According to one or more embodiments, an electronic device includes the display device described above. For example, the display device may include: a display panel comprising a foldable and flat first region and a bent second region extending from the first region; an optical functional layer on the first region and at least a portion of the second region, the optical functional layer having at least a bent portion; a first covering member on the optical functional layer and overlapping the first region; a second covering member on the first covering member, overlapping the first and second regions and having at least a bent portion; and a housing therein housing the display panel, the optical functional layer, the first covering member, and the second covering member.

[0033] The electronic device may also include a protective film on the lower surface of the display panel and include an opening area that overlaps with the boundary between the first region and the second region.

[0034] Electronic devices may also include a flexible member between the housing and the display panel.

[0035] The electronic device may also include a cover member adhesive layer and a first adhesive member, the cover member adhesive layer being between the first cover member and the second cover member, the first adhesive member being between the first cover member and the optical functional layer, and at least a portion of the first adhesive member being in contact with the cover member adhesive layer in a second region. Attached Figure Description

[0036] 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.

[0037] Figure 1A This is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of the folded state of the display device shown.

[0039] Figure 1C It is along Figure 1A The line A-A' intercepts Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device.

[0040] Figure 1D It is along Figure 1A The line B-B' intercepts Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device.

[0041] Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figure 2E yes Figure 1C A schematic rear view of an embodiment of the protective film shown.

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1C and Figure 1D A schematic plan view showing the arrangement of the elastic members and reinforcing layers.

[0043] Figure 4A and Figure 4B When the display device is folded Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the first part of the display device shown.

[0044] Figure 5A This is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0045] Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A The line C-C' intercepted Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device.

[0046] Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Figure 6D yes Figure 5B A schematic rear view of an embodiment of the protective film shown.

[0047] Figure 7 yes Figure 5B A schematic plan view showing the arrangement of the elastic members and reinforcing layers.

[0048] Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C , Figure 8D and Figure 8E This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the elastic member of the display device.

[0049] Figure 9 yes Figure 1C or Figure 5B A schematic plan view of the display panel shown.

[0050] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The diagram shows a schematic circuit of pixels or subpixels in a display panel.

[0051] Figure 11 It is along Figure 9 The line D-D' intercepted Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an embodiment of the display panel.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figures 13 to 15 These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are described in detail below. Throughout the drawings and this specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements. Exemplary embodiments may vary or have different forms, and this disclosure should not be construed as limiting oneself to the exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, embodiments are described below with reference to the drawings only to explain aspects of this disclosure.

[0055] While this disclosure can have various modifications and alternatives, embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. The effects and features of this disclosure, as well as methods of implementing it, will become apparent from the embodiments described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0056] 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” or “selected from 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 or variations thereof.

[0057] In the embodiments described below, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish one element from another and are not used in a limiting sense.

[0058] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular expressions “a,” “one,” and “the” used in this document are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0059] The terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used herein to specify the presence of the stated features or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or elements.

[0060] A layer, region, or element referred to as being "on" another layer, region, or element may be directly or indirectly on another layer, region, or element. That is, for example, an intermediary layer, region, or element may exist.

[0061] For ease of explanation, the size of the elements in the accompanying drawings may be altered or enlarged. For example, the elements in the drawings may have a size or thickness chosen for ease of explanation, and therefore, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the dimensions shown in the drawings.

[0062] In the embodiments described below, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three vertical axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be perpendicular to each other, or they may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0063] The specific process sequence described herein may be performed differently from the sequence described. For example, two processes described as having a process sequence may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of the sequence described.

[0064] Figure 1A This is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the display device 1 in its unfolded state. Figure 1B It is in a folded state. Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of the display device 1 shown.

[0065] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe display device 1 can display moving or still images and can be used as a display screen for electronic devices. For example, the display device 1 can be used as a display screen for portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, mobile communication terminals, e-notebooks, e-readers, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, or ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs). Alternatively, the display device 1 can be used in various products such as televisions (TVs), laptops, monitors, bulletin boards, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc. Additionally, the display device 1 can be used in wearable devices such as smartwatches, smartwatch phones, glasses displays, or head-mounted displays (HMDs). Furthermore, the display device 1 can be used as a central information display (CID) on a vehicle's instrument panel or center console, or as an interior mirror display replacing the vehicle's side mirrors; or as a display for entertainment equipment for the rear seats of a vehicle, arranged on the rear surface of the front seats.

[0066] Display device 1 may include a display panel 50 and a housing 90. The display panel 50 may include a display area DA for displaying an image and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. Subpixels P, including display elements, may be located within the display area DA. Here, the display area DA may contain a plurality of subpixels P that are separable from each other. Some of the subpixels P may emit light of a first color (e.g., red), others may emit light of a second color (e.g., green), and still others may emit light of a third color (e.g., blue). Display device 1 can provide an image by using the light emitted from the subpixels P in the display area DA. The peripheral area PA may be a non-display area that does not contain any subpixels P.

[0067] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. Each of the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3 may include some of the sub-pixels P. The display device 1 may provide an image through the sub-pixels P in the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3. The peripheral area PA may surround the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3.

[0068] Display panel 50 can display (output) information processed by display device 1. For example, display device 1 can run or execute an application, and display panel 50 can display execution screen information such as user interface (UI) or graphical user interface (GUI) information based on execution screen information from the application. Display panel 50 may include a display layer for displaying images and a touch screen layer for sensing user touch input. Therefore, display panel 50 can function as an input device providing an input interface between display device 1 and the user, and simultaneously, display panel 50 can function as an output interface between display device 1 and the user.

[0069] In the following description, an organic light-emitting display device is used as an exemplary embodiment of display device 1. However, the display device according to this disclosure is not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, display device 1 may include an inorganic light-emitting display device, an inorganic electroluminescent (EL) display device, or a quantum dot light-emitting display device. For example, the emitting layer of the display element included in display device 1 may include organic materials, inorganic materials, quantum dots, organic materials and quantum dots, or inorganic materials and quantum dots.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the display panel 50 may be a flexible display panel that is easy to bend, fold, or roll without damage. For example, the display panel 50 may include a foldable display panel that can be folded or unfolded, a bent display panel with a bent display surface, a bent display panel including a bent portion other than the display surface, a rollable display panel that can be rolled or unfolded, or a stretchable display panel that can be stretched. According to an embodiment, the display panel 50 may include a rigid display panel that is not easily bent.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the display panel 50 may have a first folding axis FAX1 and a second folding axis FAX2. The display panel 50 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2 without being damaged.

[0072] The first folding axis FAX1 is located between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. Additionally, the second folding axis FAX2 is located between the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3. In other words, the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2 define the boundaries of the first display area DA1, the second display area DA2, and the third display area DA3.

[0073] The housing 90 may form the external shape of the lower surface of the display device 1. The housing 90 may be made of plastic, metal, or both plastic and metal. The housing 90 may include a first portion 91, a second portion 92, and a third portion 93 supporting the display panel 50. The first portion 91 of the housing 90 may be folded relative to the second portion 92 about a first folding axis FAX1. In addition, the third portion 93 of the housing 90 may be folded relative to the second portion 92 about a second folding axis FAX2.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the first hinge portion 90A is located between the first portion 91 and the second portion 92, and the second hinge portion 90B is located between the second portion 92 and the third portion 93.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 face each other. That is, the first portion 91 and the second portion 92 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that the first portion 91 and the second portion 92 face each other. According to an embodiment, the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be folded around the first folding axis FAX1 so that they do not face each other, for example, they are back to back.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they do not face each other, for example, they are back-to-back. That is, the second portion 92 and the third portion 93 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they do not face each other. According to an embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 can be folded around the second folding axis FAX2 so that they face each other.

[0077] According to an embodiment, when the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are folded inwards facing each other, the curvature of the folded portion may be equal to or less than 5R (e.g., R = 1 mm). Alternatively, when the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 are folded inwards facing each other, the curvature of the folded portion may be equal to or less than 3R or equal to or less than 1R.

[0078] According to an embodiment, when the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 are folded outwards without facing each other, the curvature of the folded portion may be equal to or less than 5R. Alternatively, when the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 are folded outwards without facing each other, the curvature of the folded portion may be equal to or less than 4R.

[0079] Figure 1C It is along Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of display device 1 taken by line A-A'. Figure 1D It is along Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device 1 taken by line B-B'.

[0080] Reference Figure 1C The covering member 10 may be located above the display panel 50. According to an embodiment, the covering member 10 may cover the upper part of the display panel 50. Accordingly, the covering member 10 may protect the upper surface of the display panel 50.

[0081] Although not shown, according to an embodiment, the covering member 10 may include a transmissive covering portion covering the display panel 50 and a light-blocking covering portion covering the portion of the display device 1 other than the display panel 50. The light-blocking covering portion may include an opaque light-blocking material. The light-blocking covering portion may include a pattern that can be shown to the user when no image is displayed.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the covering member 10 may include a first covering member 11 and a second covering member 12. According to an embodiment, the first covering member 11 may include a transparent material. Here, the first covering member 11 may include glass, transparent synthetic resin, etc. The first covering member 11 may include one or more layers.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the second covering member 12 may be disposed on the upper surface of the first covering member 11, and may prevent or minimize damage to the first covering member 11 caused by scratches, abrasion, etc. Depending on the embodiment, the second covering member 12 may include a non-transparent layer 12a in or on a portion of the second covering member 12. According to an embodiment, the non-transparent layer 12a may be disposed at the edge of the second covering member 12. The non-transparent layer 12a may block light.

[0084] The second covering member 12 may include a flat first region 1A and a second region 2A extending from the first region 1A and having a curvature. Here, the second region 2A may be bent entirely. The second region 2A may be... Figure 1A At the first edge AR1. Here, the first edge AR1 may face the curved portion of the substrate 100 of the display panel 50. However, as Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown, the second covering member 12 is in Figure 1AThe second edge AR2, the edge facing the second edge AR2, and the edge facing the first edge AR1 can be flat. Correspondingly, the area of ​​the second covering member 12 at the first edge AR1 can have curvature in the xz plane, and the areas of the second covering member 12 at the second edge AR2, the edge facing the second edge AR2, and the edge facing the first edge AR1 can be flat in either the yz plane or the xz plane. Here, the area of ​​the second edge AR2 may include a position where the display panel 50 can be folded. That is, the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2 may intersect with the area of ​​the second edge AR2. In this case, the first covering member 11 can be arranged only in the first region 1A. That is, when the display device 1 is unfolded, the first covering member 11 can be completely flat.

[0085] The cover member adhesive layer 82 may be located between the first cover member 11 and the second cover member 12. Here, the cover member adhesive layer 82 may be located on the entire lower surface of the second cover member 12.

[0086] The display panel 50 may be located below the cover member 10. The display driver 52 may be directly on the substrate 100 of the display panel 50. In this case, the display panel 50 and the display circuit board (not shown) may be connected to each other via a flexible printed circuit board 8 or the like, or the display panel 50 and the display circuit board may be directly connected to each other. At least a portion of the substrate 100 of the display panel 50 as described above is bendable. Here, a bend protection layer BPL may be present on the bend portion of the substrate 100 to prevent the formation of cracks or the like in the bend portion of the substrate 100. The bend protection layer BPL may comprise a polymer resin, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), etc.

[0087] The bend protection layer BPL can be arranged to shield the bends of the display panel 50. Here, as... Figure 1C As shown in the cross-sectional view, one end of the curved protective layer BPL can contact the end of the optical functional layer 42.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the optical functional layer 42 may be disposed above the display panel 50, and the panel protection member 41 may be disposed below the display panel 50. Here, the optical functional layer 42 may be disposed between the first covering member 11 and the display panel 50. In addition, a touch screen layer (not shown) configured to receive touch signals from a user may be provided above the display panel 50.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the optical functional layer 42 may be disposed on the touch screen layer. The optical functional layer 42 may include an anti-reflection layer. The anti-reflection layer may reduce the reflectivity of light (external light) incident from the outside through the display device 1.

[0090] According to some embodiments, the anti-reflection layer may include a polarizing film. The polarizing film may include a linear polarizer and a phase retardation film such as a quarter-wave (λ / 4) plate. The phase retardation film may be on the touchscreen layer, and the linear polarizer may be on the phase retardation film.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the anti-reflection layer may include a filter layer comprising a black matrix and color filters. The color filters may be arranged according to the color of light emitted from each sub-pixel in the display device 1. For example, the filter layer may include a red color filter, a green color filter, or a blue color filter above sub-pixels that emit red, green, or blue light.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the reflection prevention layer may include a destructive interference structure. The destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer disposed on different layers from each other. First reflected light and second reflected light reflected from the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can destructively interfere, and therefore, the reflectivity of external light can be reduced.

[0093] As described above, the optical functional layer 42 determines the position of the end of the bending protective layer BPL. That is, when forming the bending protective layer BPL, it can be formed using a resin that can be applied to the substrate 100 of the display panel 50 after the optical functional layer 42 is formed on the display panel 50. Here, the bending protective layer BPL can be movable, and therefore may not be able to remain in a constant position on the display panel 50, and the bending protective layer BPL can shift in various directions on the display panel 50. However, when the optical functional layer 42 is disposed on the display panel 50, the end of the optical functional layer 42 not only prevents the bending protective layer BPL from entering the area of ​​the display panel 50 on which the optical functional layer 42 is disposed, but also limits the area to which the bending protective layer BPL can shift. Therefore, the bending protective layer BPL can be confined to the peripheral area PA of the display panel 50 and may not extend into the display area DA.

[0094] A fifth adhesive member 88 may be disposed between the optical functional layer 42 and the display panel 50. The fifth adhesive member 88 may attach the optical functional layer 42 to the display panel 50. Here, the fifth adhesive member 88 may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or a transparent adhesive member such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film.

[0095] Similar to the surface shape of the second cover member 12, the optical functional layer 42, the fifth adhesive member 88, and the display panel 50 may have a portion of flat portion and the remainder of bent portion.

[0096] The cover member 10 may be located above the optical functional layer 42. The cover member 10 may be attached to the optical functional layer 42 via a first adhesive member 81. According to an embodiment, the first adhesive member 81 may include a PSA or a transparent adhesive member such as an OCA film.

[0097] The ends of the first adhesive member 81 and the end of the cover member adhesive layer 82 can be attached to each other. Here, portions of the first adhesive member 81 and the cover member adhesive layer 82 adjacent to the ends of the first adhesive member 81 and the cover member adhesive layer 82, respectively, can be separated from each other. The first cover member 11 can be located between the first adhesive member 81 and the cover member adhesive layer 82. Here, the upper surface of the first adhesive member 81, the lower surface of the cover member adhesive layer 82, and the side surface of the first cover member 11 can form a space CV. The space CV can act as a buffer to partially reduce the force that may be applied to the cover member 10 or the cover window CW.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the protective film PFI may be located below the display panel 50. In this case, the protective film PFI can absorb impacts applied from outside the display device 1. In this case, the protective film PFI may include a first opening region PFI-OP1 corresponding to the curved area of ​​the display panel 50, which will be described below. Here, the width of the first opening region PFI-OP1 may be smaller than the width of the curved area of ​​the display panel 50.

[0099] Panel protection member 41 may be located below the protective film PFI. Panel protection member 41 may be attached below the protective film PFI via PSA. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0100] The protective film PFI may include a first protective film PFI1 and a second protective film PFI2 that can be connected to each other. Additionally, the protective film PFI may include a third protective film PFI3 that is separable from the second protective film PFI2 and, together with the second protective film PFI2, defines a first opening region PFI-OP1. At least one of the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2 may include a second opening region PFI-OP2. Here, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be located between the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2. Furthermore, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may overlap with the boundary between the first region 1A and the second region 2A.

[0101] In this case, similar to the surface shape of the second covering member 12, portions of the protective film PFI may have a flat shape, while other portions of the protective film PFI may have a bent shape. For example, the first protective film PFI1 may be bent, and the second protective film PFI2 may be flat.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the digitizer 70 may be arranged below the display panel 50. Here, the digitizer 70 may include a patterned layer to sense signals input from an external electronic pen or the like. Specifically, the digitizer 70 may sense the intensity, direction, etc., of the signals input from the electronic pen or the like. The digitizer 70 may be electrically connected to a separately provided main circuit board. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0103] The digitizer 70 according to an embodiment may include a first portion 70a, a second portion 70b, and a third portion 70c. According to an embodiment, the first portion 70a of the digitizer 70 may at least partially overlap with a first display area DA1, and the second portion 70b of the digitizer 70 may at least partially overlap with a second display area DA2. The third portion 70c of the digitizer 70 may at least partially overlap with a third display area DA3. Additionally, the first portion 70a and the second portion 70b of the digitizer 70 may at least partially overlap with a first folding area FA1, and the second portion 70b and the third portion 70c of the digitizer 70 may at least partially overlap with a second folding area FA2.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the first portion 70a and the second portion 70b of the digitizer 70 are separated from each other in a first direction (x-direction) by a first folding axis FAX1. Furthermore, the second portion 70b and the third portion 70c of the digitizer 70 are separated from each other in the first direction (x-direction) by a second folding axis FAX2. That is, the digitizer 70 can be provided as a separate type, rather than a single unit. Because the digitizer 70 can be provided with a separate structure, the occurrence of cracks or the like in the digitizer 70 within the first folding region FA1 and the second folding region FA2 can be prevented or minimized.

[0105] In this configuration, the digitizer 70 with its separate structure can at least partially overlap with the first folded region FA1 and the second folded region FA2, and therefore can also receive signals in both the first folded region FA1 and the second folded region FA2. This improves user convenience.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the plate 60 may be arranged between the display panel 50 and the digitizer 70. According to another embodiment, the plate 60 may be arranged below the display panel 50 to support the display panel 50.

[0107] Depending on whether the display device 1 is foldable and the type of folding, the plate 60 can have various structures. For example, when the display device 1 is not foldable, the plate 60 can have a fixed shape.

[0108] According to an embodiment, the plate 60 may include a folding structure 61. The shape or length of the folding structure 61 may change when the display device 1 is folded. According to an embodiment, the folding structure 61 may include patterned portions with openings, raised and recessed portions, links connected to each other to form a rotatable structure, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0109] According to an embodiment, when the display device 1 is folded, the folding structure 61 can be folded about (or based on) a first folding axis FAX1 and a second folding axis FAX2. According to an embodiment, the two sides of each folding structure 61 can be symmetrical with respect to (or based on) the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. According to an embodiment, the plate 60 other than the folding structure 61 can have a flat upper surface.

[0110] According to an embodiment, plate 60 may include at least one of glass, plastic, and metal. According to an embodiment, plate 60 may include glass and plastic, glass and metal, plastic and metal, or glass, plastic, and metal. According to an embodiment, folding structure 61 may include at least one of glass, plastic, and metal.

[0111] According to an embodiment, the folding structure 61 of the plate 60 may include a metallic material, and the remaining portion of the plate 60 other than the folding structure 61 may include a non-metallic material. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0112] Refer again Figure 1C According to an embodiment, the second adhesive member 83 can attach the plate 60 to the panel protection member 41. According to an embodiment, the second adhesive member 83 may include a PSA or a transparent adhesive member such as an OCA film.

[0113] According to an embodiment, the third adhesive member 85 can attach the plate 60 to the digitizer 70. According to an embodiment, the third adhesive member 85 may include a PSA, an OCA film, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0114] According to an embodiment, the third adhesive member 85 may be placed below the plate 60 and may prevent or minimize the entry of impurities into the folded structure 61 of the plate 60.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the pad 80 may be disposed below the digitizer 70. According to an embodiment, the pad 80 can prevent or minimize damage to the digitizer 70 disposed on the pad 80 from impacts from outside the display device 1.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the insulating film 89 may be located below the pad 80. Here, the sixth adhesive member PSA1 may attach the insulating film 89 to the housing 90.

[0117] According to an embodiment, the fourth adhesive member 87 may be located below the digitizer 70. According to an embodiment, the fourth adhesive member 87 may include a PSA or OCA film. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Although not shown, according to an embodiment, the digitizer 70 may be connected to a separately provided main circuit board via the fourth adhesive member 87. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0118] Main circuit board ( Figure 1C (Not shown) can be connected to the display panel 50 via a flexible printed circuit board 8, etc.

[0119] The main circuit board may include a main processor (not shown), a camera device (not shown), a main connector (not shown), and components (not shown). The main processor may be an integrated circuit. The camera device may be on both the upper and lower surfaces of the main circuit board, and each of the main processor and the main connector may be on either the upper or lower surface of the main circuit board.

[0120] The main processor controls all functions of the display device 1. For example, the main processor can output digital video data to the display driver 52 so that the display panel 50 can display an image. Additionally, the main processor can receive sensing data from a touch sensor driver (not shown). The main processor can determine whether a user touch is present based on the sensing data and can perform operations corresponding to a direct or near touch by the user. For example, the main processor can calculate the user's touch coordinates by analyzing the sensing data and then execute an application or perform an operation indicated by an icon touched by the user. The main processor may include an application processor, a central processing unit, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) including integrated circuits.

[0121] The camera device can process image frames (such as still images or moving images) acquired by an image sensor in camera mode, and can output the processed image frames to a main processor. The camera device may include at least one of a camera sensor (e.g., a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor, a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, etc.), a light sensor (or image sensor), and a laser sensor. The camera device may be connected to an image sensor arranged among components overlapping a component area, and can process images input to the image sensor.

[0122] Cables passing through the cable holes in the bracket can be connected to the main connector, and thus, the main circuit board can be electrically connected to the display circuit board.

[0123] In addition to the main processor, camera device, and main connector, the main circuit board may also include at least one wireless communication device, at least one input unit, at least one sensor unit, at least one output unit, at least one interface unit, memory, and power supply unit.

[0124] The wireless communication device may include at least one of a broadcast receiving module, a mobile communication module, a wireless internet module, a short-range wireless communication module, and a location information module.

[0125] The broadcast receiving module can receive broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server via a broadcast channel. Broadcast channels may include satellite channels and terrestrial wave channels.

[0126] The mobile communication module can transmit radio signals to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server, and receive radio signals from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server, on a mobile communication network established according to technical standards or communication methods used for mobile communication (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), CDMA 2000, Enhanced Voice Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A Advanced, etc.). The radio signals may include voice call signals, video call signals, or various forms of data based on the transmission and reception of text / multimedia messages.

[0127] A wireless internet module can refer to a module used for wireless internet access. A wireless internet module can be configured to send and receive wireless signals on a communication network according to wireless internet technologies or protocols. Wireless internet technologies may include, for example, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA).

[0128] The short-range wireless communication module can be used for short-range communication and can be used with Bluetooth. TM The short-range wireless communication module supports at least one of the following: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), Zigbee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless Universal Serial Bus (USB). The short-range wireless communication module can support wireless communication between the display device 1 and a wireless communication system, between the display device 1 and other electronic devices, or between the display device 1 and the network where other electronic devices (or external servers) reside. The short-range wireless communication network may include a wireless personal area network (WLAN). Other electronic devices may include wearable devices that can exchange data with (or be linked to) the display device 1.

[0129] The location information module may include a module configured to obtain the location (or current location) of display device 1, and representative examples of the location information module may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) module or a Wi-Fi module. Display device 1 may use the GPS module to obtain its location using signals transmitted from GPS satellites. Alternatively, display device 1 may use the Wi-Fi module to obtain its location based on information from a wireless access point (AP) that sends or receives wireless signals from the Wi-Fi module. The location information module may include, but is not limited to, a module for obtaining the location (or current location) of display device 1, directly calculating or obtaining the location of display device 1.

[0130] The input section may include an image input section, such as a camera device, configured to input image signals; a sound input section, such as a microphone, configured to input sound signals; and an input device configured to receive information from a user.

[0131] The camera device can process image frames, such as still images or moving images, acquired by the image sensor in video call mode or shooting mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on the display panel 50 or stored in memory.

[0132] The microphone can process external sound signals into electroacoustic data. The processed sound data can be used in various ways according to the functions performed by the display device 1 (or the application executed by the display device 1). The microphone can use various noise cancellation algorithms to eliminate noise that occurs during the reception of external sound signals.

[0133] The main processor can control the operation of the display device 1 based on information input through the input device. The input device may include mechanical input devices or touch input devices such as buttons, dome switches, scroll wheels, scroll wheel switches, etc., on the rear or side surface of the display device 1. The touch input device may be formed as a touch screen layer of the display panel 50.

[0134] The sensor unit may include one or more sensors configured to sense at least one of information in the display device 1, information about the surrounding environment of the display device 1, and user information, and to generate a sensing signal based on the sensed information. Based on the sensing signal, the main processor may be configured to drive the display device 1, control the operation of the display device 1, or process data and perform functions or operations related to applications installed on the display device 1. The sensor unit may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an accelerometer, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scanning sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, a battery level meter, an environmental sensor (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation sensor, a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.), and a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.).

[0135] A proximity sensor is a sensor configured to detect the presence or absence of an object approaching a predetermined detection surface or nearby object without mechanical contact, using the force of an electromagnetic field or infrared radiation. Examples of proximity sensors include transmissive photoelectric sensors, direct reflective photoelectric sensors, specular reflective photoelectric sensors, high-frequency oscillation proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, magnetic proximity sensors, and infrared proximity sensors. Proximity sensors can sense not only proximity touches but also proximity touch patterns, such as proximity touch distance, proximity touch direction, proximity touch speed, proximity touch time, proximity touch position, and proximity touch movement state. The main processor can be configured to process data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touch operations and proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor, and the main processor can control the display panel 50 to display visual information corresponding to the processed data.

[0136] An ultrasonic sensor can be configured to identify the position information of an object by using ultrasonic waves. A main processor can be configured to calculate the object's position using information sensed from an optical sensor and multiple ultrasonic sensors. The speeds of light and ultrasound can vary depending on the object's position, and therefore, the object's position can be calculated using the time it takes for light to reach the optical sensor and the time it takes for ultrasound waves to reach the ultrasonic sensor.

[0137] The output unit can be configured to generate outputs related to vision, hearing, touch, etc., and may include at least one of a display panel 50, a sound output unit, a tactile module, and a light output unit.

[0138] The sound output unit can output sound data received from a wireless communication device or stored in memory in call signal receiving mode, call mode, recording mode, voice recognition mode, broadcast receiving mode, etc. The sound output unit can output sound signals related to the functions performed by the display device 1 (e.g., call signal receiving sound, message receiving sound, etc.). The sound output unit may include a receiver and a speaker. At least one of the receiver and speaker may include a sound generating device attached below the display panel 50 and causing the display panel 50 to vibrate to output sound. The sound generating device may include a piezoelectric element or piezoelectric actuator that contracts or expands according to an electrical signal, or an exciter that generates magnetic force by using a voice coil to vibrate the display panel 50.

[0139] The haptic module can generate various tactile effects that can be perceived by the user. The haptic module can provide vibrations to the user as tactile effects. The intensity, pattern, etc., of the vibrations generated in the haptic module can be controlled according to the user's selection or the main processor's settings. For example, the haptic module can synthesize and output different vibrations, or it can output different vibrations sequentially. The haptic module can generate various tactile effects, including not only vibrations, but also effects such as needle arrays performing vertical movements relative to the contacting skin surface, the jetting or suction force of air through jet or suction holes, a gentle brushing of the skin surface, contact with electrodes and electrostatic forces, and effects based on the representation of cold and hot sensations using devices capable of heat absorption or heat radiation. The haptic module can transmit tactile effects through direct contact. Additionally, the haptic module can be configured to allow the user to perceive tactile effects through the sensation of muscles such as fingers and arms.

[0140] The light output unit can use light from a light source to output a signal to notify of an event. Examples of events occurring in the display device 1 may include message reception, call signal reception, missed calls, alarm clock, calendar notifications, email reception, and information reception via an application. The signal output by the light output unit can be achieved by emitting light of a single color or multiple colors on the front or rear surface of the display device 1. The output of the signal can be terminated by the display device 1 sensing the user's recognition of the event.

[0141] The interface section can serve as a path between the display device 1 and various types of external devices connected to it. The interface section may include at least one of a wired / wireless headphone port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device including an identification module, an audio input / output (I / O) port, a video I / O port, and an earphone port. When an external device is connected to the interface section, the display device 1 can perform appropriate control operations related to the external device connected thereto.

[0142] The memory can store data supporting various functions of the display device 1. The memory can store multiple applications that will be driven or executed in the display device 1, as well as data and instructions for the operation of the display device 1. At least some of the multiple applications can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. The memory can store applications for the operation of the main processor and can temporarily store input / output data, such as data like phone books, messages, still images, moving images, etc. Additionally, the memory can store tactile data for vibrations of various modes provided to the tactile module and audio data about various sounds provided to the audio output unit. The memory can include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, solid-state drive (SSD), silicon disk drive (SDD), multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., Secure Digital (SD) or Extreme Digital (XD) memory), random access memory (RAM), static RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0143] The power supply unit, under the control of the main processor, can supply power to each component included in the display device 1 by receiving external and internal power. The power supply unit may include a battery. Additionally, the power supply unit may include a connection port, which may be an example of an interface unit electrically connected to an external charger that supplies power for charging the battery. Alternatively, the power supply unit may be configured to charge the battery wirelessly instead of using a connection port. The battery may receive power from an external wireless power transmission device using one or more of inductive coupling methods based on magnetic induction and magnetic resonance coupling methods based on electromagnetic resonance. The battery may be arranged so as not to overlap with the main circuit board in the third direction (z-direction). The battery may overlap with holes in the bracket.

[0144] The housing 90 may be disposed below the main circuit board and the battery. The housing 90 may form the external shape of the lower surface of the display device 1. The housing 90 may be made of plastic, metal, or both plastic and metal. The housing 90 may include an upper housing 94 connected to each of the first portion 91, the second portion 92, and the third portion 93. Here, the upper housing 94 may be connected to each of the first portions 91 to the third portions 93 respectively, and may include additional hinges corresponding to each of the first hinge portion 90A and the second hinge portion 90B. The upper housing 94 may include an inclined surface 94a. In addition, the surface of the upper housing 94 may include a clearance groove 94b with a recessed portion. When the display device 1 is folded, the clearance groove 94b provides space in which at least one of the protective film PFI, the display panel 50, the optical functional layer 42, the cover member 10, and the cover window CW may be displaced.

[0145] The housing 90 may include a mounting groove 90-1 in which the elastic member 2 is disposed. The mounting groove 90-1 may be a recess in the lower surface of the housing 90 and may be shaped to receive part of the elastic member 2. The mounting groove 90-1 not only receives the elastic member 2, but also provides clearance space when at least one of the cover member 10, optical functional layer 42, display panel 50, panel protection member 41 and protective film PFI is pressed against the lower surface of the housing 90.

[0146] A brush portion 96 may be disposed between the upper housing 94 and the cover member 10. The brush portion 96 may prevent contaminants from entering the space between the upper housing 94 and the cover member 10. Here, the brush portion 96 may include microfibers or protrusions and may contact the upper surface of the cover member 10.

[0147] The elastic member 2 may be located below the first region 1A or the second region 2A. Here, the elastic member 2 may be housed in the space located below the protective film PFI. In this case, when a force is applied from the side of the covering member 10 or the covering window CW, the elastic member 2 may absorb the impact applied to at least one of the protective film PFI, the display panel 50, the optical functional layer 42, the covering member 10, and the covering window CW. Additionally, when at least a portion of the display device 1 shifts toward the housing 90 when the display device 1 is folded, the elastic member 2 may support at least a portion of the shifted portion of the display device 1. Here, the shape of the elastic member 2 may change in response to the shifted portion. The elastic member 2 may include rubber, urethane, etc. Furthermore, the elastic member 2 may include at least one cavity 2a. Here, the elastic member 2 may be located in the space below the protective film PFI. Figure 1A At the first edge AR1 or with Figure 1A The first edge AR1 is adjacent to it. Additionally, the elastic member 2 may be elongated, thus having a length similar to that of at least one of the edges of the display device 1. For example, the elastic member 2 may have a length approximately the same as that of the first edge AR1 of the display device 1. The length of the elastic member 2 may extend parallel to the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2.

[0148] The elastic member 2 can be fixed by an adhesive member. For example, the elastic member 2 can be fixed to the housing 90 by a seventh adhesive member PSA2 in the housing 90. Alternatively, the elastic member 2 can be fixed to the housing 90 by an eighth adhesive member PSA3 on the side surface of at least one of the digitizer 70, the pad 80 and the insulating film 89.

[0149] Figure 1D The reinforcing layer FG shown can be Figure 1A At the second edge AR2 or with Figure 1AThe second edge AR2 is adjacent to the first edge AR2. The reinforcing layer FG may contain resin and may be cured. Here, the housing 90 may accommodate the reinforcing layer FG. The upper housing 94 may be located at the second edge AR2 where the reinforcing layer FG is located, or it may not be located at the second edge AR2 where the reinforcing layer FG is located. When the upper housing 94 is not located at the second edge AR2, the reinforcing layer FG may surround at least a portion of the upper surface of the second covering member 12 and the side surface of the display device 1. Here, the second edge AR2 may refer to at least one of the edges of the display device 1 at the end of the first edge AR1.

[0150] Figures 2A to 2E yes Figure 1C A schematic rear view of an embodiment of the protective film PFI shown.

[0151] Reference Figure 2A The protective film PFI may include a first protective film PFI1, a second protective film PFI2, and a third protective film PFI3. Here, the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2 may be connected to each other. Additionally, a second opening region PFI-OP2 may be located between the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2. Here, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may extend as a straight line or a strip. Furthermore, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be a hole for completely removing the protective film PFI. The third protective film PFI3 may be separate from the second protective film PFI2. Here, the first opening region PFI-OP1 may be located between the third protective film PFI3 and the second protective film PFI2.

[0152] The first opening region PFI-OP1 may correspond to the curved region described further below. Additionally, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may overlap with the boundary between the first region 1A and the second region 2A as described above.

[0153] Reference Figure 2B The second opening region PFI-OP2 may include multiple second opening regions PFI-OP2 that are separate from each other. Here, the multiple second opening regions PFI-OP2 may be arranged in a string. The string of second opening regions PFI-OP2 may be arranged parallel to the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2.

[0154] Reference Figure 2CThe protective film PFI may further include a third opening region PFI-OP3. Here, the third opening region PFI-OP3 may be arranged in a direction different from the length direction of the second opening region PFI-OP2. Furthermore, the third opening region PFI-OP3 may not overlap with the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2. That is, each third opening region PFI-OP3 may be located in the unfolded portion of the protective film PFI. The third opening region PFI-OP3 may extend along the edge of the protective film PFI when the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2 is located between adjacent areas of the third opening region PFI-OP3. Here, one third opening region PFI-OP3 or a pair of third opening regions PFI-OP3 may be arranged in each of the areas defined by the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. For example, in Figure 2C In this embodiment, the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2 can divide the protective film PFI into three regions, and a pair of third opening regions PFI-OP3 can be present in each of these regions. Although not shown, the embodiment may have one third opening region PFI-OP3 in each region.

[0155] Reference Figure 2D Multiple third opening regions PFI-OP3 can be provided in each of the multiple regions of the protective film PFI defined by the first fold axis FAX1 or the second fold axis FAX2. Here, the multiple third opening regions PFI-OP3 can be arranged in a series in each region. Additionally, as... Figure 2D As shown, in each region, two consecutive third opening regions PFI-OP3 may be at opposite edges, or although not in Figure 2D As shown, however, a series of third opening regions PFI-OP3 can be arranged only on one side of each region.

[0156] Reference Figure 2E The second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may each include one or more openings in a series. Here, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be as described in reference... Figure 2B The arrangement is described above, and the third opening region PFI-OP3 can be referenced as follows. Figure 2D The arrangement of the land.

[0157] As described above, at least one of the second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 allows for a certain degree of deformation of the edge of the display device 1 when an external impact is applied to it. That is, if the second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 were not present, the protective film PFI could be located within a large portion of the display device 1, and therefore, when an impact is applied from the upper surface of the display device 1, the protective film PFI could remain undeformed, thus preventing deformation of at least one of the protective film PFI, the display panel 50, the optical functional layer 42, the cover member 10, and the cover window CW. However, by providing at least one of the second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 in the protective film PFI, the edge portion of the display device 1 can be less rigid than other parts of the display device 1 and can deform to better protect the other parts of the display device 1.

[0158] Figure 3 yes Figure 1C and Figure 1D A schematic plan view of an embodiment of the elastic member 2 and the reinforcing layer FG shown.

[0159] Reference Figure 3 The elastic member 2 and the reinforcing layer FG may be located at different positions. For example, the elastic member 2 may be located on a side of the display device 1 that is parallel to but does not overlap with the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2. The reinforcing layer FG may be adjacent to a side of the display device 1 that is perpendicular to the first folding axis FAX1 and the second folding axis FAX2. In this case, at least one area of ​​the reinforcing layer FG may be provided, and each area of ​​the reinforcing layer FG may not overlap with the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2. When areas of the reinforcing layer FG are provided, one area of ​​the reinforcing layer FG or a pair of areas of the reinforcing layer FG may be located in each area of ​​the display device 1 defined by the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2.

[0160] Although not in Figure 3 As shown, however, the elastic member 2 can replace the reinforcing layer FG. More specifically, the reinforcing layer FG may be absent, and a copy of the elastic member 2 may be used in conjunction with... Figure 3 The location corresponding to the area of ​​the reinforcement layer FG shown. In this case, with Figure 1C Similarly, the elastic member 2 can be arranged between the covering member 10 and the shell 90.

[0161] Depending on the embodiment, multiple or copies of at least one of the elastic member 2 and the reinforcing layer FG may be provided such that the elastic member 2 or the reinforcing layer FG may be spaced apart from each other. In this case, with Figure 2B or Figure 2E Similar to the second opening region PFI-OP2 shown, multiple elastic members 2 can be arranged in a series and are related to... Figure 2D or Figure 2E Similar to the third opening region PFI-OP3 shown, multiple regions of the reinforcing layer FG can be arranged in a series in each region of the display device 1 defined by the first folding axis FAX1 or the second folding axis FAX2.

[0162] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Is Figure 1A The schematic cross-sectional view of the first part of the display device 1 before and after it is folded is shown.

[0163] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B When the display device 1 is not folded, the ends of the protective film PFI, display panel 50, optical functional layer 42, covering member 10 and covering window CW can be separated from the clearance groove 94b of the upper housing 94 by a certain distance.

[0164] When display device 1 is as Figure 1B When the device is folded as shown, a portion of the display device 1 can be displaced in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis. Specifically, as... Figure 4B As shown, when the display device 1 is folded, at least one of the following components—covering window CW, covering member 10, optical functional layer 42, display panel 50, protective film PFI, panel protection member 41, plate 60, digitizer 70, padding layer 80, and insulating film 89—may shift toward the side surface of the housing 90. Figure 4B In the example, the distance of the indicated end displacement of each of the cover window CW, cover member 10, optical functional layer 42, display panel 50, protective film PFI, panel protection member 41, plate 60, digitizer 70, pad 80 and insulating film 89 can decrease from top to bottom.

[0165] When the display device 1 is folded, the end of the second cover member 12 can be displaced along the inclined surface 94a. Here, the surface of the second cover member 12 can be bent, and therefore, the second cover member 12 displaces along the inclined surface 94a. The clearance groove 94b can restrict the displacement path of the second cover member 12. In addition, a portion of the second cover member 12 can remain in contact with the brush portion 96. In this case, the displacement of the optical functional layer 42, the display panel 50, and the protective film PFI can be similar to the displacement of the second cover member 12. The ends of the panel protection member 41, the plate 60, the digitizer 70, the pad layer 80, and the insulating film 89 can also be displaced toward the side surface of the housing 90. Here, the second cover member 12 can enter the clearance groove 94b.

[0166] The second cover member 12, the optical functional layer 42, the display panel 50, and the protective film PFI can be moved not only toward the side surface of the housing 90, but also toward the lower surface of the housing 90.

[0167] In this case, displacement can bring at least one of the protective film PFI, panel protection member 41, plate 60, digitizer 70, pad 80, and insulating film 89 into contact with the elastic member 2, thereby causing a change in the shape of the elastic member 2. For example, the elastic member 2 may have the following characteristics: Figure 4A The annular cross-section shown, but as Figure 4B As shown, the cross-section can be altered to have recessed or protruding portions.

[0168] When the display device 1 unfolds to flatness again, the elastic member 2 can apply a restoring force to at least one of the cover window CW, cover member 10, optical functional layer 42, display panel 50, protective film PFI, panel protection member 41, plate 60, digitizer 70, pad 80 and insulating film 89.

[0169] Therefore, when the display device 1 is folded, at least one of the following components can be prevented from contacting the housing 90: the cover window CW, the cover member 10, the optical functional layer 42, the display panel 50, the protective film PFI, the panel protection member 41, the plate 60, the digitizer 70, the pad 80, and the insulating film 89.

[0170] Figure 5A This is a schematic perspective view of a display device 1 according to another embodiment. Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display device 1 taken by line C-C'.

[0171] Reference Figure 5A and Figure 5B The display device 1 may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. According to an embodiment, the display device 1 may include a folding area FA, and the display area DA may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2 separated from each other by the folding area FA. Here, the display area DA, the folding area FA, and the peripheral area PA are as described above. Figure 1A The descriptions are the same or substantially the same, and therefore, their detailed descriptions are omitted below.

[0172] According to an embodiment, the display device 1 may include a cover window CW, a cover member 10, a panel protection member 41, an optical functional layer 42, a display panel 50, a protective film PFI, a plate 60, a pad 80, an insulating film 89, a housing 90, a brush portion 96, an elastic member 2, and a protective layer (not shown). Here, the cover member 10, the panel protection member 41, the optical functional layer 42, the display panel 50, the protective film PFI, the plate 60, the pad 80, the insulating film 89, the brush portion 96, the elastic member 2, and the protective layer may be compared with reference to the reference. Figures 1A to 1C The descriptions are the same or substantially the same.

[0173] The cover member 10 may include a first cover member 11 and a second cover member 12, and a cover member adhesive layer 82 may be located between the first cover member 11 and the second cover member 12. A first adhesive member 81 may be located between the cover member 10 and the optical functional layer 42, and a fifth adhesive member 88 may be located between the optical functional layer 42 and the display panel 50. A third adhesive member 85 may be located between the plate 60 and the pad layer 80, and a fourth adhesive member 87 may be located on the third adhesive member 85. Additionally, a sixth adhesive member PSA1 may be located between the insulating film 89 and the housing 90, a seventh adhesive member PSA2 may be located between the elastic member 2 and the housing 90, and an eighth adhesive member PSA3 may be located between the elastic member 2 and the pad layer 80. Here, a mounting groove 90-1 provides for mounting the elastic member 2 within the housing 90.

[0174] The second covering member 12 may include a first region 1A and a second region 2A, wherein the second region 2A is adjacent to the first edge AR1. Here, the first region 1A may be completely flat, and the second region 2A may be inclined or bent. Additionally, the second covering member 12 may... Figure 1A The second edge AR2, the edge facing the second edge AR2, and the edge facing the first edge AR1 are flat or straight along the x or y direction. In this case, although not shown, it is similar to... Figure 1D Similar to the embodiment shown, the reinforcing layer may include an area adjacent to the second edge AR2 of the display device 1. That is, the reinforcing layer may be between the side surface of at least one of the cover window CW, cover member 10, panel protection member 41, optical functional layer 42, display panel 50, protective film PFI, plate 60, pad layer 80, insulating film 89, and housing 90 and the housing 90. In this case, the upper surface of the first adhesive member 81, the lower surface of the cover member adhesive layer 82, and the side surface of the first cover member 11 may form a space CV.

[0175] The housing 90 may include a first portion 91, a second portion 92, a first hinge portion 90A, and an upper housing 94. Here, the first portion 91, the second portion 92, the first hinge portion 90A, and the upper housing 94 may be referenced above. Figures 1A to 1C The descriptions are the same or substantially the same, and therefore, their detailed descriptions are omitted below.

[0176] The protective film PFI may include a first protective film PFI1, a second protective film PFI2, and a third protective film PFI3. Additionally, the protective film PFI may include a first opening region PFI-OP1 and a second opening region PFI-OP2. Here, the second opening region PFI-OP2 can be formed by removing only a portion of the protective film PFI. For example, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may include a groove located in the protective film PFI. That is, the thickness of the portion of the protective film PFI in which the second opening region PFI-OP2 is formed may be less than the thickness of the first protective film PFI1 or the second protective film PFI2 in which the second opening region PFI-OP2 is not formed.

[0177] A fourth adhesive member 87 may be located between the third protective film PFI3 and the plate 60, and the third protective film PFI3 may be located at an end of the substrate 100. Here, the bending protective layer BPL may be disposed in the bending region of the substrate 100. In addition, the display driver 52 may be located at an end of the substrate 100 and may be connected to the flexible printed circuit board 8.

[0178] The term "above" as used here refers to the direction from the display panel 50 toward the covering member 10, i.e., the +z direction, and the term "below" refers to the direction from the display panel 50 toward the digitizer 70, i.e., the -z direction.

[0179] According to an embodiment, the display device 1 in the plan view may have a rectangular shape. For example, as... Figure 1A and Figure 5A As shown, the display device 1 may have a rectangular planar shape comprising a long side extending in a first direction (x-direction) and a short side extending in a second direction (y-direction) intersecting the first direction (x-direction). The corners where the long and short sides intersect each other may be bent (i.e., may have a predetermined curvature) or may be right angles. However, the display device 1 is not limited to having a rectangular planar shape and may have other shapes, such as polygonal shapes, elliptical shapes, or irregular shapes other than rectangular shapes.

[0180] According to embodiments, the display device 1 may have various forms. For example, the display device 1 may have a fixed shape. According to embodiments, at least a portion of the display device 1 may be folded. In this case, the display device 1 may have an inward folded shape in which the display device 1 can be folded such that portions of the display area DA can face each other, or it may have an outward folded shape in which the display device 1 can be folded such that the display area DA can be exposed to the outside. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the case in which the display device 1 may have an inward folded shape will be mainly described.

[0181] According to an embodiment, the display device 1 can be folded about (or based on) a folding axis. In this case, when the display device 1 is folded about (or based on) the folding axis, the display device 1 can occupy a reduced area compared to when the display device 1 is fully unfolded.

[0182] Therefore, when the display device 1 is fully unfolded, a large display screen can be realized, and when the display device 1 is fully folded, the area of ​​the display device 1 can be reduced, and thus, the portability of the display device 1 can be increased.

[0183] Figures 6A to 6D yes Figure 5B A schematic rear view of an embodiment of the protective film PFI shown.

[0184] Reference Figure 6A The protective film PFI may include a first protective film PFI1, a second protective film PFI2, and a third protective film PFI3. Additionally, the protective film PFI may include a first opening region PFI-OP1, a second opening region PFI-OP2, and a third opening region PFI-OP3. Here, the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2 may be connected to each other, and the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be located between the first protective film PFI1 and the second protective film PFI2. Furthermore, the second protective film PFI2 and the third protective film PFI3 may be separated from each other, and the first opening region PFI-OP1 may be located between the second protective film PFI2 and the third protective film PFI3. The first opening region PFI-OP1 may correspond to a curved area of ​​the substrate 100 of the display panel 50 where a curved protective layer BPL is positioned.

[0185] The second opening region PFI-OP2 can be a long and straight opening in the area of ​​the protective film PFI adjacent to the first edge AR1. For example, the longitudinal direction of the second opening region PFI-OP2 can be parallel to the folding axis FAX. Additionally, a third opening region PFI-OP3 or a pair of third opening regions PFI-OP3 can be in each of the two regions defined by the folding axis FAX. When a third opening region PFI-OP3 is arranged in one region, it can be located only in the region adjacent to one of the facing sides of the protective film PFI. According to another embodiment, when a pair of third opening regions PFI-OP3 are in one region, the third opening region PFI-OP3 can include openings respectively adjacent to the facing sides. Here, the third opening region PFI-OP3 may not overlap with the folding axis FAX.

[0186] Reference Figure 6BThe second opening region PFI-OP2 may include multiple separation openings. Here, the separation openings forming the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be arranged in a series. The direction in which the multiple second opening regions PFI-OP2 are arranged may be parallel to the folding axis FAX. The first opening region PFI-OP1 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may be as described above. Figure 6A The descriptions are the same, and therefore, their detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0187] Reference Figure 6C The third opening region PFI-OP3 may include multiple separation openings. For example, groups of separation openings included in the third opening region PFI-OP3 may be arranged in each region of the protective film PFI defined by the folding axis FAX. A group of one separation opening or a group of a pair of separation openings in the third opening region PFI-OP3 may be present in each region. Additionally, groups of separation openings in the third opening region PFI-OP3 may be linearly arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis FAX. The first opening region PFI-OP1 and the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be related to the above-mentioned... Figure 6A The descriptions are identical, and therefore, their detailed descriptions have been omitted.

[0188] Reference Figure 6D The second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may each include multiple separation openings. Here, the separation openings of the second opening region PFI-OP2 may be related to a reference... Figure 6B The descriptions are identical or substantially identical, and the separation opening of the third opening region PFI-OP3 is comparable to the reference. Figure 6C The descriptions are the same or substantially the same. Additionally, the first opening region PFI-OP1 can be compared with the above reference. Figure 6A The descriptions are identical, and therefore, their detailed descriptions have been omitted.

[0189] Additionally, although not shown, the third opening region PFI-OP3 may not be provided. In this case, the second opening region PFI-OP2 may have the same characteristics as... Figure 6A or Figure 6B The shape shown is the same as the shape shown.

[0190] The shapes of the second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may vary, and are not limited to the rectangular or square shapes described above. For example, although not shown, at least one of the second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may include an opening having an elliptical shape, a shape similar to a rectangle and having edges with concave and convex shapes, or a shape corresponding to a plurality of circles that are separated from each other.

[0191] The second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may include grooves or holes. The second opening region PFI-OP2 and the third opening region PFI-OP3 may partially reduce the rigidity of the protective film PFI.

[0192] Figure 7 yes Figure 5B A schematic plan view showing the arrangement of the elastic member 2 and the reinforcing layer FG.

[0193] Reference Figure 7 The elastic member 2 can be with Figure 5A The first edge AR1 shown is adjacent, and the reinforcement layer FG may include [the following]. Figure 5A The area adjacent to the second edge AR2 shown in the diagram. Here, the reinforcing layer FG may not overlap with the folding axis FAX, and a copy of the elastic member 2 can be used to replace the area of ​​the reinforcing layer FG. Additionally, the elastic member 2 can be as follows: Figure 7 As shown, they are integrally formed, and although not in Figure 7 As shown, however, multiple elastic members 2 can be like Figure 6B The second opening regions, PFI-OP2, shown are arranged in a series, separated from each other. In this case, the additional members may not be located between adjacent elastic members 2, and therefore, in Figure 6B In the middle, the elastic member 2 may not be arranged on the left side.

[0194] like Figure 7 As shown, the reinforcing layer FG can include multiple zones in each region of the display device 1 defined by the folding axis FAX. In this case, the zones of the reinforcing layer FG in each region can be like... Figure 6C or Figure 6D The third opening region, PFI-OP3, is separated from each other as shown.

[0195] Figures 8A to 8E This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the elastic member 2 of the display device.

[0196] Reference Figure 8A The elastic member 2 can have various cross-sectional shapes. For example, the elastic member 2 can have a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape. Figure 8A In one embodiment, the elastic member 2 has only one cavity.

[0197] Reference Figure 8B The elastic member 2 may include multiple spaces. For example, the elastic member 2 may have a porous shape. Here, the spaces in the elastic member 2 may or may not be connected to the outside. The elastic member 2 may include a sponge, etc. Figure 8B It is shown that all spaces in elastic member 2 can have the same size. However, the spaces are not limited to this, and the size of one of the spaces can be different from the size of another. Additionally, Figure 8B It is also shown that the space in the elastic member 2 can have a circular cross-sectional shape. However, the space is not limited to this, and one or more of the multiple spaces can have a polygonal cross-sectional shape such as a triangular cross-sectional shape, an elliptical cross-sectional shape, an irregular cross-sectional shape, or a more complex shape such as a star-shaped cross-sectional shape. Figure 8B An embodiment is shown in which all of the multiple spaces in the elastic member 2 may have the same cross-sectional shape. However, the spaces are not limited to this, and one of the multiple spaces may have a different cross-sectional shape than the other of the multiple spaces.

[0198] Reference Figure 8C The elastic member 2 may include at least one cavity. Here, the cavity may have an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, the elastic member 2 may include multiple cavities that are separated from each other.

[0199] Reference Figure 8D The cavity of the elastic member 2 may have a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape. Here, multiple cavities may be stacked in the height direction of the elastic member 2.

[0200] Reference Figure 8E The elastic member 2 may include multiple cavities. Here, the multiple cavities may be arranged in columns and rows to be separate from each other.

[0201] Regarding this, the elastic member 2 may have a circular or quadrilateral cross-sectional shape. However, the elastic member 2 is not limited to this. For example, the elastic member 2 may include a polygonal cross-sectional shape, an elliptical cross-sectional shape, or an irregular cross-sectional shape other than a polygonal, circular, or elliptical cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the cavity is not limited to this. The cavity may include a polygonal cross-sectional shape, an elliptical cross-sectional shape, or an irregular cross-sectional shape other than a polygonal, circular, or elliptical cross-sectional shape. Here, the cross-sectional shape may refer to a cross-sectional shape taken along a direction perpendicular to the length or elongation direction of the elastic member 2. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the elastic member 2 and the cross-sectional shape of the cavity may be taken in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 2.

[0202] Figure 9 yes Figure 1C or Figure 5B A schematic plan view of an embodiment of the display panel 50 shown.

[0203] Reference Figure 9The display device (not shown) may include a display panel 50 and a flexible printed circuit board 8. The display panel 50 may emit red, green, or blue light from light-emitting diodes located at positions corresponding to any of the sub-pixels P within the display area DA. The display area DA may include signal lines, such as data lines DL and scan lines SL, electrically connected to transistors and storage capacitors electrically connected to the light-emitting diodes in the display area DA. The data lines DL may extend in the x-direction within the display area DA, and the scan lines SL may extend in the y-direction within the display area DA.

[0204] The peripheral area PA can be outside the display area DA and can completely surround the display area DA.

[0205] The first scan driver 3a and the second scan driver 3b may be arranged in the peripheral region PA and may be electrically connected to the scan line SL. According to an embodiment, some of the scan lines SL may be electrically connected to the first scan driver 3a, and others may be electrically connected to the second scan driver 3b. The first scan driver 3a and the second scan driver 3b may be configured to generate a scan signal, and the generated scan signal may be transmitted through the scan line SL to a transistor electrically connected to a light-emitting diode.

[0206] The first scan driver 3a and the second scan driver 3b may be located on opposite sides of the display area DA. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, the first scan driver 3a is located on the left side of the display area DA, and the second scan driver 3b is located on the right side of the display area DA. According to another embodiment, either the first scan driver 3a or the second scan driver 3b may be omitted.

[0207] The driving voltage supply line 6 can be located in the peripheral region PA. The driving voltage supply line 6 can be located between the display region DA and the region of the substrate 100 that includes the terminal portion 5.

[0208] The common voltage supply line 7 may be in the peripheral area PA, and may have a loop shape that extends partially around the display area DA and has an open side. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the common voltage supply line 7 may have a generally U-shaped shape. The common voltage supply line 7 may extend along the side of the substrate 100 other than the side of the substrate 100 where the terminal portion 5 is provided, and thus, the first scan driver 3a may be between a portion of the common voltage supply line 7 and the display area DA, and the second scan driver 3b may be between another portion of the common voltage supply line 7 and the display area DA.

[0209] Integrated circuit device 4 may be arranged in the peripheral region PA. Integrated circuit device 4 may be located between the display region DA and the region of substrate 100 including terminal portion 5. Integrated circuit device 4 may include a data driver. Hereinafter, integrated circuit device 4 may refer to a data driver. Integrated circuit device 4 may be electrically connected to pad terminals arranged below it. Data signals generated by integrated circuit device 4 (e.g., data driver) may be transmitted via connection lines 1100 in the fan-out region to signal lines (e.g., data lines DL) arranged in the display region DA. The fan-out region may be part of the peripheral region PA and may correspond to the region between integrated circuit device 4 and display region DA.

[0210] Terminal portion 5 may include terminals 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d. Terminals 5a to 5d may not be covered by an insulating layer and are therefore exposed, and may be electrically connected to a controller SC disposed on a flexible printed circuit board 8. The flexible printed circuit board 8 may include opposing terminals 8T corresponding to terminal portion 5. The opposing terminals 8T of the flexible printed circuit board 8 may be electrically connected to terminals 5a to 5d. The controller SC may generate control signals for controlling the first scan driver 3a, the second scan driver 3b, and the integrated circuit device 4, and the generated control signals may be transmitted to the first scan driver 3a, the second scan driver 3b, and the integrated circuit device 4 via terminals 5a and 5c. The controller SC may transmit the drive voltage and the common voltage to the drive voltage supply line 6 and the common voltage supply line 7, respectively, via terminals 5b and 5d. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the display panel 50 may be curved. For example, a portion of the display panel 50 may be curved such that the portion of the peripheral region PA containing the integrated circuit device 4 is located at the rear surface of the display region DA. Here, the display panel 50 may include a curved region BA as a curved portion of the peripheral region PA. The curved area BA can be located between the display area DA and the integrated circuit device 4.

[0211] Figure 10 An equivalent circuit diagram of a sub-pixel circuit PC electrically connected to a light-emitting diode (LED) is shown in a display device according to an embodiment.

[0212] Reference Figure 10 As shown above Figure 9 As stated, each sub-pixel P( Figure 9 Light can be emitted using a light-emitting diode (LED). The LED can be electrically connected to the sub-pixel circuit PC.

[0213] The sub-pixel circuit PC may include a first thin-film transistor T1, a second thin-film transistor T2, a third thin-film transistor T3, a fourth thin-film transistor T4, a fifth thin-film transistor T5, a sixth thin-film transistor T6, a seventh thin-film transistor T7, and a storage capacitor Cst.

[0214] The second thin-film transistor T2 may include a switching thin-film transistor, which can be connected to a scan line SL and a data line DL, and is configured to transmit a data voltage (or data signal Dm) input from the data line DL to the first thin-film transistor T1 based on a switching voltage (or scan signal Sn) input from the scan line SL. A storage capacitor Cst may be connected to the first thin-film transistor T1 and a drive voltage line PL, and is configured to store a voltage corresponding to the difference between a drive voltage ELVDD supplied to the drive voltage line PL and a voltage received from the second thin-film transistor T2 that compensates for a threshold voltage of the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0215] The first thin-film transistor T1 may include a driving thin-film transistor, connectable to a driving voltage line PL and a storage capacitor Cst, and configured to control the driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL through the light-emitting diode (LED) based on the value of the voltage stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The LED emits light with a brightness dependent on the driving current. A second electrode (e.g., a cathode) of the LED receives a common voltage ELVSS.

[0216] The third thin-film transistor T3 may include a compensation thin-film transistor, and the gate electrode of the third thin-film transistor T3 may be connected to the scan line SL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3 may be connected to the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1, and may be connected to the first electrode of the light-emitting diode LED via the sixth thin-film transistor T6. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3 may be connected to one electrode of the storage capacitor Cst, the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4, and the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1, or all of them. The third thin-film transistor T3 may be turned on according to the scan signal Sn received via the scan line SL, and the gate electrode and drain electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1 may be connected to each other to diode-connect the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0217] The fourth thin-film transistor T4 may include an initialization thin-film transistor, and the gate electrode of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be connected to the previous scan line SL-1. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be connected to the initialization voltage line VL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be connected to one or all of the following: an electrode of the storage capacitor Cst, the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3, and the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1. The fourth thin-film transistor T4 may be turned on in response to a previous scan signal Sn-1 received via the previous scan line SL-1, and may perform an initialization operation of the voltage of the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1 by transmitting an initialization voltage Vint to the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0218] The fifth thin-film transistor T5 may include an operation control thin-film transistor, and the gate electrode of the fifth thin-film transistor T5 may be connected to the emitter control line EL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fifth thin-film transistor T5 may be connected to the drive voltage line PL. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the fifth thin-film transistor T5 may be connected to the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1 and the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the second thin-film transistor T2.

[0219] The sixth thin-film transistor T6 may include an emitter control thin-film transistor, and the gate electrode of the sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be connected to the emitter control line EL. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be connected to the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the first thin-film transistor T1 and the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be electrically connected to the first electrode of the light-emitting diode (LED). The fifth thin-film transistor T5 and the sixth thin-film transistor T6 may be simultaneously turned on in response to an emitter control signal En received through the emitter control line EL, so that the drive voltage ELVDD may be transmitted to the LED through the first thin-film transistor T1, and the drive current may flow in the LED.

[0220] The seventh thin-film transistor T7 may include an initialization thin-film transistor configured to initialize the first electrode of a light-emitting diode (LED). The gate electrode of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may be connected to the next scan line SL+1. The source electrode (or drain electrode) of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may be electrically connected to the first electrode of the LED. The drain electrode (or source electrode) of the seventh thin-film transistor T7 may be connected to an initialization voltage line VL. The seventh thin-film transistor T7 may be turned on in response to a next scan signal Sn+1 received via the next scan line SL+1, and may initialize the first electrode of the LED.

[0221] Figure 10 It is shown that the fourth thin-film transistor T4 and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be connected to the previous scan line SL-1 and the next scan line SL+1, respectively. However, according to another embodiment, both the fourth thin-film transistor T4 and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 can be connected to the previous scan line SL-1 and can be driven according to the previous scan signal Sn-1.

[0222] The other electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the drive voltage line PL. One electrode of the storage capacitor Cst can be connected to all of the following: the gate electrode of the first thin-film transistor T1, the drain electrode (or source electrode) of the third thin-film transistor T3, and the source electrode (or drain electrode) of the fourth thin-film transistor T4.

[0223] The second electrode (e.g., the cathode) of the light-emitting diode (LED) can receive a common voltage ELVSS. The LED can emit light by receiving a drive current from the first thin-film transistor T1.

[0224] In one embodiment, a light-emitting diode (LED) may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) comprising organic materials as light-emitting materials. According to another embodiment, an LED may correspond to an inorganic light-emitting diode comprising inorganic materials. An inorganic LED may include a PN junction diode comprising an inorganic semiconductor base material. When a voltage is applied to the PN junction diode in the forward direction, holes and electrons can be injected into the PN junction diode, and the energy generated by the recombination of holes and electrons can be converted into light energy, thus emitting light of a specific color. The aforementioned inorganic LED may have a width of several micrometers to hundreds of micrometers or several nanometers to hundreds of nanometers. According to some embodiments, an LED may include a quantum dot LED. As described above, the emitting layer of an LED may include organic materials, inorganic materials, quantum dots, organic materials and quantum dots, or inorganic materials and quantum dots. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, examples in which the LED comprises an organic light-emitting diode are described.

[0225] Figure 11 It is along Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the display panel 50, taken by line D-D'.

[0226] Reference Figure 11 The display panel 50 may include sub-pixel circuitry PC and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) located in the display area DA of the display panel 50. Here, the LEDs may include organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0227] Substrate 100 may comprise a glass material or a polymer resin. According to an embodiment, substrate 100 may have a stacked structure comprising a base layer of polymer resin and a barrier layer comprising an inorganic insulating material (such as silicon oxide or silicon nitride). When, as described above, substrate 100 has a stacked structure comprising a base layer containing a polymer resin and a barrier layer containing an inorganic insulating material, as referred to above… Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display device 1 may have increased flexibility, and therefore, the display device 1 may be foldable.

[0228] The polymer resin may include polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, or cellulose acetate propionate.

[0229] Subpixel circuit PC may be formed on substrate 100, and light-emitting diodes (e.g., organic light-emitting diodes OLED) may be formed on subpixel circuit PC.

[0230] Before forming the sub-pixel circuit PC on the substrate 100, a buffer layer 201 for preventing impurities from penetrating into the sub-pixel circuit PC may be formed on the substrate 100. The buffer layer 201 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating material.

[0231] As shown above (refer to the reference) Figure 10 The sub-pixel circuit PC may include multiple transistors and storage capacitors. Regarding this aspect, Figure 11 The first thin-film transistor T1, the third thin-film transistor T3, and the storage capacitor Cst are shown.

[0232] The first thin-film transistor T1 may include a semiconductor layer (hereinafter referred to as the first semiconductor layer A1) located on a buffer layer 201 and a gate electrode (hereinafter referred to as the first gate electrode GE1) overlapping the channel region C1 of the first semiconductor layer A1. The first semiconductor layer A1 may include a silicon-based semiconductor material, such as polysilicon. The first semiconductor layer A1 may include the channel region C1 and a first region B1 and a second region D1 on opposite sides of the channel region C1, respectively. The first region B1 and the second region D1 may include a higher concentration of impurities than the channel region C1, and either the first region B1 or the second region D1 may correspond to a source region, and the other may correspond to a drain region.

[0233] The first gate insulating layer 203 may be located between the first semiconductor layer A1 and the first gate electrode GE1. The first gate insulating layer 203 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating materials.

[0234] The first gate electrode GE1 may include a conductive material containing Mo, Al, Cu, Ti, etc., and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned conductive material.

[0235] The storage capacitor Cst may include a lower electrode CE1 and an upper electrode CE2 that overlap each other. According to an embodiment, the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst may include a first gate electrode GE1. In other words, the first gate electrode GE1 may include the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst. For example, the first gate electrode GE1 and the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst may be integrally formed with each other.

[0236] The first interlayer insulating layer 205 may be disposed between the lower electrode CE1 and the upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst. The first interlayer insulating layer 205 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating materials.

[0237] The upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst may include a low-resistivity conductive material such as Mo, Al, Cu and / or Ti, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned materials.

[0238] The second interlayer insulation layer 207 may be on the storage capacitor Cst. The second interlayer insulation layer 207 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating materials.

[0239] The semiconductor layer of the third thin-film transistor T3 (hereinafter referred to as the third semiconductor layer A3) may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer 207. The third semiconductor layer A3 may include an oxide-based semiconductor material. For example, the third semiconductor layer A3 may include a Zn oxide-based material, such as Zn oxide, In-Zn oxide, Ga-In-Zn oxide, etc. According to some embodiments, the third semiconductor layer A3 may include a semiconductor comprising In-Ga-Zn-O (IGZO), In-Sn-Zn-O (ITZO), or In-Ga-Sn-Zn-O (IGTZO) in which a metal such as In, Ga, or Sn is contained in ZnO.

[0240] The third semiconductor layer A3 may include a channel region C3 and a first region B3 and a second region D3 located on opposite sides of the channel region C3. Either the first region B3 or the second region D3 may correspond to the source region, and the other may correspond to the drain region.

[0241] The third thin-film transistor T3 may include a gate electrode (hereinafter referred to as the third gate electrode GE3) that overlaps with the channel region C3 of the third semiconductor layer A3. The third gate electrode GE3 may have a dual-gate structure including a lower gate electrode G3A below the third semiconductor layer A3 and an upper gate electrode G3B above the channel region C3.

[0242] The lower gate electrode G3A may be on the same layer (e.g., the first interlayer insulating layer 205) as the upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst. The lower gate electrode G3A may be made of the same material as the upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst.

[0243] The upper gate electrode G3B may be located above the third semiconductor layer A3, separated by the second gate insulating layer 209. The second gate insulating layer 209 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating material.

[0244] The third interlayer insulating layer 210 may be disposed on the upper gate electrode G3B. The third interlayer insulating layer 210 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxynitride, and may include a single-layer or multi-layer structure containing the aforementioned inorganic insulating material.

[0245] Figure 11 References are shown Figure 10 The first thin-film transistor T1 and the third thin-film transistor T3 are described among a plurality of thin-film transistors, and a first semiconductor layer A1 and a third semiconductor layer A3 are shown disposed on different layers. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0246] Reference Figure 10 The second thin-film transistor T2, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 described may have the same characteristics as the reference. Figure 11 The first thin-film transistor T1 has the same structure as the second thin-film transistor T2, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7. Figure 10 Each of the following may include a semiconductor layer disposed on the same layer as the first semiconductor layer A1 of the first thin-film transistor T1 and a gate electrode disposed on the same layer as the first gate electrode GE1 of the first thin-film transistor T1. The second thin-film transistor T2, the fifth thin-film transistor T5, the sixth thin-film transistor T6, and the seventh thin-film transistor T7 ( Figure 10 The semiconductor layer of the first semiconductor layer A1 can be integrally connected with the semiconductor layer A1.

[0247] Reference Figure 10 The fourth thin-film transistor T4 described may have the same characteristics as the reference. Figure 11 The third thin-film transistor T3 has the same structure as described. For example, the fourth thin-film transistor T4 may include a semiconductor layer disposed on the same layer as the third semiconductor layer A3 of the third thin-film transistor T3 and a gate electrode formed on the same layer as the third gate electrode GE3 of the third thin-film transistor T3. The semiconductor layer of the fourth thin-film transistor T4 and the third semiconductor layer A3 of the third thin-film transistor T3 may be integrally connected to each other.

[0248] The first thin-film transistor T1 and the third thin-film transistor T3 can be electrically connected to each other via a node connection line 166. The node connection line 166 can be disposed on the third interlayer insulating layer 210. One side of the node connection line 166 can be connected to the first gate electrode GE1 of the first thin-film transistor T1, and the other side of the node connection line 166 can be connected to the third semiconductor layer A3 of the third thin-film transistor T3.

[0249] The node connection line 166 may include Al, Cu and / or Ti, and may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned materials. For example, the node connection line 166 may have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0250] A first organic insulating layer 211 may be on the node connection line 166. The first organic insulating layer 211 may include an organic insulating material. The organic insulating material may include acrylic acid, benzocyclobutene (BCB), polyimide, or hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO).

[0251] The second organic insulating layer 212 may be applied to the first organic insulating layer 211. Here, the second organic insulating layer 212 may comprise a material that is the same as or substantially the same as the material of the first organic insulating layer 211. Additionally,

[0252] The second organic insulating layer 212 may be integrally formed with the first organic insulating layer 211, or the second organic insulating layer 212 may be formed separately from the first organic insulating layer 211 and may be stacked on the first organic insulating layer 211.

[0253] The data line DL and the drive voltage line PL may be on the first organic insulating layer 211 or the second organic insulating layer 212, and may be covered by the second organic insulating layer 212 or the third organic insulating layer 213. In the following description, for ease of explanation, it is detailed that the data line DL and the drive voltage line PL may be arranged on the second organic insulating layer 212 and covered by the third organic insulating layer 213.

[0254] The data line DL and the drive voltage line PL may include Al, Cu, and / or Ti, and may include a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned materials. For example, the data line DL and the drive voltage line PL may have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0255] The third organic insulating layer 213 may include organic insulating materials such as acrylic, BCB, polyimide and / or HMDSO. Figure 11 The data line DL and drive voltage line PL are shown to be on the second organic insulating layer 212. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, either the data line DL or the drive voltage line PL may be on the same layer (e.g., on the third interlayer insulating layer 210) as the node connection line 166.

[0256] A light-emitting diode (e.g., an organic light-emitting diode OLED) may be mounted on a third organic insulating layer 213.

[0257] The first electrode 221 of an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may include a reflective layer comprising Ag, Mg, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, or compounds thereof. According to another embodiment, the first electrode 221 may further include a conductive oxide layer above and / or below the aforementioned reflective layer. The conductive oxide layer may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In₂O₃), indium gallium oxide (IGO), and / or zinc aluminum oxide (AZO). According to an embodiment, the first electrode 221 may have a three-layer structure of ITO layer / Ag layer / ITO layer.

[0258] A dam layer 215 may be on the first electrode 221. The dam layer 215 may include an opening that overlaps with the first electrode 221 and may cover the edge of the first electrode 221. The dam layer 215 may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0259] Intermediate layer 222 may include an emitting layer 222b. Intermediate layer 222 may include a first functional layer 222a below the emitting layer 222b and / or a second functional layer 222c above the emitting layer 222b. Emitting layer 222b may include a high-molecular-weight or low-molecular-weight organic material capable of emitting light of a specific color. Second functional layer 222c may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). First functional layer 222a and second functional layer 222c may include organic materials.

[0260] The second electrode 223 may include a conductive material having a low work function. For example, the second electrode 223 may include a transparent (semi-transparent) layer comprising Ag, Mg, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, or alloys thereof. Alternatively, the second electrode 223 may also include a layer comprising ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 on the (semi-)transparent layer comprising the aforementioned material.

[0261] The emitting layer 222b can be formed in the display area DA through the opening in the dam layer 215 to overlap with the first electrode 221. However, the first functional layer 222a, the second functional layer 222c, and the second electrode 223 can completely cover the display area DA.

[0262] Spacer 217 may be formed on dam 215. Spacer 217 may be formed together with dam 215 using the same process as dam 215, or separately from dam 215 using a separate process. According to an embodiment, spacer 217 may comprise an organic insulating material such as polyimide. Alternatively, dam 215 may comprise an organic insulating material containing a light-blocking dye, and spacer 217 may comprise an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0263] An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) can be covered by an encapsulation layer 300. The encapsulation layer 300 may include at least one organic encapsulation layer and at least one inorganic encapsulation layer. According to an embodiment, Figure 11 The encapsulation layer 300 is shown to include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, and an organic encapsulation layer 320 between the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330.

[0264] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), and silicon oxide (SiO2). x ), silicon nitride (SiN) x The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may comprise a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned materials. The organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material may comprise acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, polyethylene, etc. According to an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may comprise acrylates.

[0265] The thicknesses of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be different from each other. The thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 may be greater than the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330. Alternatively, the thickness of the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be greater than the thickness of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, or the thicknesses of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may be the same as each other.

[0266] The input sensing layer 400 may be disposed on the encapsulation layer 300. The input sensing layer 400 may include touch electrodes TE arranged in the display area DA and at least one touch insulating layer. Regarding this aspect, Figure 11 The input sensing layer 400 is shown to include a first touch insulating layer 410 on the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, a first conductive line 420 on the first touch insulating layer 410, a second touch insulating layer 430 on the first conductive line 420, a second conductive line 440 on the second touch insulating layer 430, and a third touch insulating layer 450 on the second conductive line 440.

[0267] Each of the first touch insulating layer 410, the second touch insulating layer 430, and the third touch insulating layer 450 may comprise an inorganic insulating material and / or an organic insulating material. According to an embodiment, the first touch insulating layer 410 and the second touch insulating layer 430 may comprise inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride, and the third touch insulating layer 450 may comprise an organic insulating material. At least one of the first touch insulating layer 410, the second touch insulating layer 430, and the third touch insulating layer 450 may extend from the display area DA into the peripheral area PA.

[0268] The touch electrode TE of the input sensing layer 400 may include a structure in which the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 are connected to each other. Alternatively, the touch electrode TE may include either the first conductive line 420 or the second conductive line 440, and in this case, the second touch insulating layer 430 may be omitted.

[0269] Each of the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 may include Al, Cu, and / or Ti, and may include a single layer or multiple layers of the aforementioned materials. For example, each of the first conductive line 420 and the second conductive line 440 may have a three-layer structure of Ti layer / Al layer / Ti layer.

[0270] As described above, the display device according to one or more of the above embodiments can reduce the breakage of the edge portion due to external impact.

[0271] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an electronic device 20 according to an embodiment.

[0272] Reference Figure 12 The electronic device 20 according to the embodiment may include a display module 21 including a display panel, a processor 22, a memory 23 and a power module 24.

[0273] Processor 22 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller. According to embodiments, processor 22 may be provided by being functionally or structurally divided into two or more processors. For example, processor 22 may include a main processor as a first driver chip including a CPU and an auxiliary processor as a second driver chip including a controller configured to receive image signals from the main processor and process the image signals according to the interface specifications of display module 21.

[0274] The memory 23 may include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The memory 23 may store data information required for the operation of the processor 22 or the display module 21. When the processor 22 executes the application stored in the memory 23, image data signals and / or input control signals may be transmitted to the display module 21, and the display module 21 may be configured to process the received signals and output image information through the display screen.

[0275] The power module 24 may include a power module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module configured to convert the power from the power module and generate the power required for the operation of the electronic device 20. The power conversion performed by the power conversion module may include, but is not limited to, direct current (DC) to DC conversion, alternating current (AC) to DC conversion, and DC to AC conversion.

[0276] The electronic device 20 may also include an input module 25, a non-image output module 26, and / or a communication module 27.

[0277] Input module 25 can provide input information to processor 22 and / or display module 21. Input module 25 may include not only physical buttons, keyboards, and microphones, but also various sensor modules. Examples of sensor modules may include not only touch sensors, pressure sensors, distance sensors, position sensors, digitizers, motion recognition sensors, camera sensors, light receiving sensors, photoelectric conversion sensors, and temperature sensors, but also biometric sensors such as blood pressure sensors, blood glucose sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, and heart rate sensors.

[0278] The non-image output module 26 can receive information other than images from the processor 22 and provide the information to the user. Examples of non-image output modules 26 may include sound modules, haptic modules, light emission modules, etc., and may also include other functional modules inherent to electronic devices (e.g., cooling modules of a refrigerator).

[0279] The communication module 27 is configured to perform the sending and receiving of information between the electronic device 20 and an external device, and may include a receiver and a transmitter. The communication module 27 may include various wireless communication modules such as mobile communication modules, Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth modules, etc., or various wired communication modules.

[0280] At least one of the components of the described electronic device 20 may be included in the display device 1 according to the above embodiments. Additionally, some of the separate modules functionally included in a single module may be included in the display device 1, while others may be provided separately from the display device 1. For example, the display device 1 may include a display module 21, and the processor 22, memory 23, and power module 24 may be provided as other devices in the electronic device 20 instead of the display device 1. As another example, the power module 24 may be provided in the display device 1 and may provide power to the processor 22 and memory 23 provided in the electronic device 20 instead of the display device 1. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0281] Figures 13 to 15 These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. Figures 13 to 15 Examples of various electronic devices, including a display device 1 according to an embodiment, are shown.

[0282] Figure 13 Examples of electronic devices are shown, including a smartphone 20_1a, a tablet PC 20_1b, a laptop computer 20_1c, a TV 20_1d, and a desktop monitor 20_1e.

[0283] In addition to the display module 21, the smartphone 20_1a may also include an input module such as a touch sensor and a communication module. The smartphone 20_1a can process information received through the communication module or other input modules, and display the processed information through the display module of the display device 1.

[0284] Similar to the smartphone 20_1a, the tablet PC 20_1b, laptop computer 20_1c, TV 20_1d, and desktop monitor 20_1e may also include a display module and an input module, and may also include a communication module depending on the situation.

[0285] Figure 14 The illustration shows an electronic device 20 including a display module 21, which may include a wearable electronic device. Wearable electronic devices may include smart glasses 20_2a, HMD 20_2b, smartwatches 20_2c, etc.

[0286] The smart glasses 20_2a and HMD 20_2b may include a display module configured to project a display image and a reflector configured to reflect the projected display image and provide the display image to the user's eyes, thereby providing the user with a virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) image.

[0287] The smart meter 20_2c may include a biometric sensor as an input device, and the biometric information identified by the biometric sensor may be provided to the user through a display module.

[0288] Figure 15 The illustration shows an electronic device 20, including a display module 21, included in a vehicle. For example, the electronic device 20_3 can be used in the vehicle's instrument panel or center console, or as a CID (Central Information Display) or interior mirror display replacing the side mirrors, arranged on the vehicle's dashboard.

[0289] Although not shown, the electronic device including the display device 1 according to the embodiment may include not only devices mainly comprising a display screen (such as billboards, electronic display panels, game consoles, etc.), but also various household appliances (such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, robotic cleaners, etc.) for displaying information through the display module. Furthermore, when the display module has light transmission functionality, the electronic device may include a smart window or transparent display device for simultaneously displaying a background and an image. The type of electronic device according to the embodiment is not limited to the examples described above, and various other electronic devices may also be provided.

[0290] As described above, interference between the display panel and the housing can be reduced by using one or more display devices according to the above embodiments.

[0291] As described above, the overlapping area at the edges of the display panel can be reduced by using one or more display devices according to the above embodiments.

[0292] The embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be regarded as other similar features or aspects that may be used in other embodiments. Although one or more embodiments have been described with reference to figures, those skilled in the art will understand 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: The display panel includes a foldable and flat first region and a bent second region extending from the first region; An optical functional layer is located in the first region and at least a portion of the second region, and the optical functional layer has at least a bent portion. A covering member, which overlaps with the first region and the second region on the optical functional layer and has at least a bent portion; A housing, in which the display panel, the optical functional layer, and the cover member are housed; as well as An elastic member is provided between the housing and the display panel.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A protective film is provided on the lower surface of the display panel.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The protective film includes an opening region that overlaps with the boundary between the first region and the second region.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic member includes a porous member or a member containing an internal cavity.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a mounting groove in which the elastic member is mounted.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The covering component includes: A first covering member, the first covering member being on the optical functional layer and overlapping the first region; and A second covering member is on the first covering member, overlaps with the first region and the second region, and has at least a bent portion.

7. The display device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: A cover member adhesive layer is provided between the first cover member and the second cover member; as well as A first adhesive member is located between the first covering member and the optical functional layer. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the adhesive layer of the covering member is in contact with at least a portion of the first adhesive member in the second region.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the housing facing at least the bent portion of the covering member is inclined or bent.

9. A display device, characterized in that, include: Display panel, the display panel having a foldable portion; A housing that accommodates the display panel; as well as An elastic member is provided between the housing and the display panel and includes at least one space.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, Includes the display device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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