Display device and electronic device

Abstract

A display device and an electronic device are disclosed. The display device includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region, and a curved region between the first region and the second region, the first region, the second region, and the curved region being continuous, the curved region being curved such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; and a spacer between the first region and the second region facing each other in the first direction, and the spacer being cut to open vent holes. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cutting line may be introduced into the spacer used in the display device to minimize or reduce the presence of bubbles in the spacer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device, an electronic device, and a method for manufacturing the display device. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices such as organic light-emitting displays and liquid crystal displays include display panels manufactured by forming multiple layers and elements on a substrate. Recently, flexible display panels and display devices including such flexible display panels have been developed.

[0003] Based on their purpose or shape, display devices can be classified as flexible display devices, foldable display devices, rollable display devices, stretchable display devices, etc. Among them, foldable display devices can be folded and unfolded like a book.

[0004] Compared to display devices using a rigid substrate, display devices using a flexible substrate can be designed to bend the edges of the display panel using pads (or "solder pads"), thereby reducing dead space. Reducing dead space can reduce the bezel width of the display device. Utility Model Content

[0005] According to aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, the occurrence of bubbles can be suppressed by introducing multiple patterns into spacers used in a display device.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments, the display device includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region, and a curved region between the first region and the second region, the first region, the second region, and the curved region being continuous, the curved region being curved such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; and a spacer between the first region and the second region facing each other in the first direction, and the spacer being cut to open an exhaust port.

[0007] The spacers may include a first cut line and a second cut line that intersect each other to define the vent hole.

[0008] The first and second cleaving lines can be orthogonal to each other.

[0009] The first cutting line may include a plurality of first cutting lines parallel to each other in the second direction, and the second cutting line may include a plurality of second cutting lines parallel to each other in the third direction intersecting the second direction, and the spacer may include a plurality of vent holes in which the plurality of first cutting lines and the plurality of second cutting lines intersect each other.

[0010] Multiple vents can be arranged in a matrix along the second and third directions.

[0011] The display device may also include a display driver mounted in the second region and a printed circuit board connected to the end of the second region.

[0012] The display device may also include a support layer having a first surface and a second surface facing each other, wherein the display panel may be supported on the first surface and the spacer may be supported on the second surface.

[0013] The support layer may include a cover plate, and the cover plate may include at least one of a reinforcement layer, a buffer layer, and a shielding layer.

[0014] Cover windows can be placed on the display panel.

[0015] The support layer may include a metal plate.

[0016] The metal sheet may include at least one selected from the group consisting of titanium, stainless steel and carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0017] The barrier layer can be placed between the metal plate and the display panel.

[0018] Covering windows, including folded areas, can be placed on the display panel.

[0019] The protective layer can be placed on the cover window, including the folded area.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments, a method of manufacturing a display device includes the following steps: preparing a display panel, the display panel including a first region, a second region and a curved region between the first region and the second region, the first region, the second region and the curved region being continuous; bending the curved region such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; cutting a spacer to open an exhaust vent; and arranging the spacer between the first region and the second region facing each other in the first direction.

[0021] The step of cutting the spacer to open the vent may include forming a first cutting line and a second cutting line that intersect each other.

[0022] The first and second cutting lines can be cut into each other orthogonally.

[0023] The steps of forming the first cutting line and the second cutting line may include: cutting a plurality of first cutting lines parallel to each other in a second direction and a plurality of second cutting lines parallel to each other in a third direction intersecting the second direction, to form a plurality of vent holes in the spacer, wherein the plurality of first cutting lines and the plurality of second cutting lines intersect each other in the plurality of vent holes.

[0024] The step of forming multiple vent holes may include arranging multiple vent holes in a matrix along a second direction and a third direction.

[0025] The method of manufacturing a display device may further include attaching a support layer to the rear surface of a display panel corresponding to a first region, wherein the step of arranging spacers may include attaching spacers to the support layer.

[0026] According to one or more embodiments, an electronic device includes: a memory; a processor for executing an application stored in the memory; and a display device including a display module for outputting video information provided by the application, wherein the display device includes: a display panel including a first region, a second region, and a curved region between the first region and the second region, the first region, the second region, and the curved region being continuous, wherein the curved region is curved such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; and a spacer between the first region and the second region facing each other in the first direction, wherein the spacer is cut to open an exhaust port.

[0027] The spacers may include a first cut line and a second cut line that intersect each other to define the vent hole.

[0028] According to aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, cutting lines can be introduced into spacers used in a display device to minimize or reduce the presence of bubbles in the spacers. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 This is an enlarged top view of the spacer according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a foldable display device included in a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 8 This is an enlarged top view of the spacer according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 9This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 10 Schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments are shown.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0040] 10: Covering window 10': Covering window including the folding area

[0041] 100: Display panel; 200: Display driver

[0042] CP: Cover plate; PLA: Metal plate

[0043] SP: Spacers C1, C2: First cutting line, second cutting line

[0044] BU: Bubble Detailed Implementation

[0045] This disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments may be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure.

[0046] To describe this disclosure more clearly, parts or components that are not relevant to the description may be omitted, and identical or similar constituent elements are indicated by the same reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0047] Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, for ease of description, the dimensions and thicknesses of the elements may be shown arbitrarily, and this disclosure is not limited to the dimensions and thicknesses shown in the drawings. In the accompanying drawings, for clarity, the thicknesses of layers, films, panels, regions, areas, etc., may be exaggerated. In the accompanying drawings, for ease of description, the thicknesses of some layers and regions may be exaggerated.

[0048] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, area, or substrate is referred to as being "on" or "above" another element, it may be directly on said other element, or one or more intervening elements may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, no intervening element is present. Furthermore, in the specification, the terms "on" or "above" mean disposed on or below the object portion, and do not necessarily mean disposed on the upper side of the object portion based on the direction of gravity.

[0049] In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the words “including” and variations such as “comprising” or “having” will be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated element but not the exclusion of any other element.

[0050] Furthermore, throughout the instruction manual, the phrase "in a plan view" or "on a plane" refers to the target portion viewed from above, while the phrase "in a sectional view" or "on a section" refers to the section formed by vertically cutting the target portion viewed from the side.

[0051] In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals DR1, DR2, and DR3 are used to indicate directions. "DR3" is the first direction, "DR2" is the second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and "DR1" is the third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0053] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electronic device 1 may include a display screen corresponding to the front surface in a plane defined by the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1, capable of displaying an image on the first direction DR3. The electronic device 1 may be any of a device having the primary function of displaying images, such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet computer, multimedia player, game console, monitor, etc. The electronic device 1 may include a cover window 10, a housing 20, a display device 30, etc.

[0054] The cover window 10 may include an insulating panel. For example, the cover window 10 may be made of glass, plastic, or a combination thereof. The front surface of the cover window 10 may define the front surface of the electronic device 1. The area in the cover window 10 corresponding to the display screen may be optically transparent. The cover window 10 may be disposed on the upper part of the display device 30 to protect the display device 30 from external impacts, etc., and may transmit images displayed by the display device 30. The cover window 10 may be considered as a component of the display device 30.

[0055] The housing 20 can be made of a material with relatively high rigidity. For example, the housing 20 may include multiple frames and / or panels made of glass, plastic, or metal, or combinations thereof. The housing 20 can be integrated with the cover window 10, and the housing 20 and the cover window 10 integrated together can form the appearance of the electronic device 1 and provide an internal space for the electronic device 1. For example, the housing 20 can form the rear and side surfaces of the electronic device 1, and the cover window 10 can form the front surface of the electronic device 1. The display device 30, etc., can be disposed in the internal space defined by the cover window 10 and the housing 20, and the display device 30, etc., can be protected from the influence of the external environment.

[0056] Display device 30 can display images and provide a display screen for electronic device 1. Display device 30 can be a light-emitting display device such as an organic light-emitting display device, an inorganic light-emitting display device, or a quantum dot light-emitting display device.

[0057] Electronic device 1 can have any of various shapes. For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, when viewed from the front, the electronic device 1 can be a quadrilateral shape with rounded corners. Alternatively, the electronic device 1 can have a shape such as a rectangle, a square, another polygon, a circle, or an ellipse.

[0058] The electronic device 1 and the display device 30 may each include a display area DA and a non-display area NA. Figure 1 The display area DA and non-display area NA of the electronic device 1 shown can correspond to Figure 2 The display device 30 shown has a display area DA and a non-display area NA. The display area DA is the area in which an image is displayed and may correspond to a display screen. The non-display area NA is the area in which no image is displayed. In an embodiment, the display area DA may occupy most of the area around the center of the front surface of the electronic device 1, and the non-display area NA may be around the display area DA (e.g., surrounding the display area DA).

[0059] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. The second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may be areas on the rear surface where components (such as sensors and cameras) for adding various functions to the electronic device 1 are disposed. The second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may correspond to component areas. In an embodiment, the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may be surrounded by the first display area DA1. In an embodiment, not only the first display area DA1, but also the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may display images. However, the position and number of the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may vary.

[0060] More specifically, the display device 30 may provide a display screen within the electronic device 1. The display device 30 may detect or capture the front surface of the electronic device 1. The display device 30 may have a planar shape similar to the planar shape of the electronic device 1.

[0061] In an embodiment, the display device 30 may include a display panel 100, a display driver 200, a printed circuit board 300, a touch driver 400, etc.

[0062] The display panel 100 can be attached to the cover window 10 via an adhesive layer. The display panel 100 may include a main area MA and a sub-area SA.

[0063] The main region MA may include a display area DA in which pixels for displaying images are disposed, and a non-display area NA surrounding the display area DA. In an embodiment, the display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. Components such as sensors or cameras may be disposed on the rear surfaces of the second display areas DA2 and the third display areas DA3, and the second display areas DA2 and the third display areas DA3 may correspond to component areas.

[0064] The display area DA can emit light from the light-emitting area corresponding to the light-emitting element in the first direction DR3. For example, the display panel 100 may include a pixel circuit section containing transistors, signal lines (e.g., gate lines, data lines, or voltage lines) connected to the pixel circuit section, and light-emitting elements connected to the pixel circuit section. In an embodiment, the display panel 100 may include a pixel defining layer having an opening defining a light-emitting area for each light-emitting element. The light-emitting element may include an organic light-emitting diode containing an organic light-emitting layer, a quantum dot light-emitting diode containing a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting diode containing an inorganic semiconductor, and / or a micro light-emitting diode.

[0065] The non-display area NA may be located around the display area DA (e.g., surrounding the display area DA). The non-display area NA may be defined as the edge region of the main area MA of the display panel 100. Circuitry and / or signal lines for generating and / or transmitting various signals applied to the display area DA are provided in the non-display area NA. For example, gate drivers (not shown) that supply gate signals to gate lines and fan-out lines (not shown) of signal lines connecting the display driver 200 to the display area DA may be provided in the non-display area NA.

[0066] Sub-region SA may be a region extending from one side of main region MA. In an embodiment, sub-region SA may include a flexible region capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. For example, sub-region SA may be bent to overlap with main region MA in the thickness direction (first direction DR3). Display driver 200 may be disposed in sub-region SA, and pad region may be disposed at the edge of sub-region SA. Printed circuit board 300 may be connected to pad region. In another embodiment, sub-region SA may be omitted, and display driver 200 and pad region may be disposed in non-display area NA.

[0067] The display driver 200 can output signals and voltages for driving the display panel 100. The display driver 200 can supply data voltages to data lines. The display driver 200 can supply power voltages to power lines and can supply gate control signals to gate drivers. In one embodiment, the display driver 200 can be configured as an integrated circuit chip and can be mounted on the display panel 100. For example, the display driver 200 can be disposed in a sub-region SA and can be stacked with the main region MA in the thickness direction (first direction DR3) by bending the sub-region SA. In another embodiment, the display driver 200 can be mounted on a printed circuit board 300.

[0068] The touch driver 400 can be configured as an integrated circuit chip and can be mounted on a printed circuit board 300. The touch driver 400 can be electrically connected to a touch sensing unit included in the electronic device 1. The touch sensing unit can be disposed in the display area DA of the display panel 100. The touch driver 400 can supply an input signal (touch drive signal) to the sensing electrodes of the touch sensing unit and can detect the amount of capacitance change between the sensing electrodes based on the output signal (touch sensing signal) from the sensing electrodes. For example, the touch drive signal can be a pulse signal with a specific frequency (e.g., a predetermined frequency). The touch driver 400 can calculate whether a touch has occurred and the touch coordinates based on the amount of capacitance change between the sensing electrodes.

[0069] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 3 The display panel is shown along the curve after bending. Figure 2 A schematic cross-section of line A-A' in the diagram.

[0070] In the display device 30 according to the embodiment, a support layer and a spacer SP may be disposed on the rear surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100, and a cover window 10 may be disposed on the front surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100.

[0071] Cover window 10 can be disposed on display panel 100. Cover window 10 can protect display panel 100. Cover window 10 can be attached to display panel 100 by an adhesive layer ADS such as optically clear adhesive (OCA).

[0072] The display panel 100 may include a first region A1, a second region A2, and a curved region AB disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2, which are distinct from each other and continuous. The curved region AB may be curved such that the second region A2 is disposed on the rear surface of the first region A1. The first region A1 and the second region A2 may be configured to face each other in a first direction DR3 via the curved region AB. To maintain the curved state of the display panel 100, a spacer SP may be disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2. When the display panel 100 is curved, the display driver 200 may be mounted and disposed in the second region A2. A printed circuit board 300 may be connected to an end of the second region A2. In an embodiment, the main body 310 of the printed circuit board 300 may be attached to the second region A2 using double-sided adhesive tape DST.

[0073] To illustrate the schematic stacked structure of the display panel 100, the display panel 100 may include a display unit DU, a touch sensing unit (not shown) disposed on the display unit DU, a reflection reduction layer ARL, a protective film PF, and a protective sheet disposed under the display unit DU.

[0074] The display unit DU may include a substrate and a driving element layer, a light-emitting element layer and an encapsulation layer disposed on the substrate.

[0075] The substrate can be a matrix substrate or a matrix component. In embodiments, the substrate can be a flexible substrate comprising a polymer resin (such as polyimide, polyamide, or polyethylene terephthalate). In embodiments, the substrate can be a rigid substrate made of a material such as glass. A driving element layer can be disposed on the substrate. The driving element layer can include transistors and capacitors that construct pixel circuitry that outputs driving current to the light-emitting element.

[0076] The driving element layer may include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan-out lines connecting the display driver 200 to the data lines, and leads connecting the display driver 200 to the display pad. The driving element layer may include gate control lines and transistors and capacitors that construct the gate driver. The driving element layer may include conductive layers, semiconductor layers, and insulating layers, and these layers can be combined to construct transistors, capacitors, and signal lines while also insulating them.

[0077] The light-emitting element layer can be disposed on the driving element layer, and can include light-emitting elements and light-emitting areas corresponding to the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting element layer may include a pixel defining layer having an opening that defines the light-emitting area.

[0078] An encapsulation layer (e.g., a thin-film encapsulation layer) may cover the top and side surfaces of the light-emitting element layer and may prevent or substantially prevent external moisture or oxygen from penetrating into the light-emitting element layer. The encapsulation layer may include one or more inorganic layers and one or more organic layers.

[0079] The touch sensing unit may include an encapsulation layer and may include sensing electrodes. The sensing electrodes may detect the user's touch using mutual capacitance and / or self-capacitance methods.

[0080] The reflectivity reduction layer (ARL) reflects light incident on the display panel from the outside, thereby reducing the amount of light reflected by the display panel 100. In one embodiment, the ARL may include a polarizing layer. In another embodiment, the ARL may include a combination of a color filter and a light-blocking component, instead of a polarizing layer.

[0081] The protective film PF can be attached to the rear surface of the display panel 100 and can protect the display panel 100 during the manufacturing process of the display device 30. The protective film PF may not be provided in the bend portion BPa of the sub-region SA. A bend protection layer BPLa (or stress neutralizing layer) for relieving stress on the wiring provided in the bend portion BPa of the sub-region SA may be provided on the bend portion BPa of the sub-region SA.

[0082] A support layer may be disposed beneath the display panel 100. The support layer may have a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The display panel 100 may be supported on the first surface of the support layer, and the spacer SP may be supported on the second surface of the support layer. In an embodiment, a cover plate CP may be used as the support layer. In an embodiment, the cover plate CP may have a multi-layer structure. In an embodiment, the cover plate CP may include a metal layer, a reinforcing layer, and a buffer layer. The metal layer includes a metal (such as copper or aluminum) with excellent thermal conductivity and shielding properties. The reinforcing layer is used to ensure the strength of the protective film PF, and the buffer layer is capable of preventing or substantially preventing damage to the display panel 100 by absorbing impacts.

[0083] The display driver 200 can be mounted and disposed in the second region A2 of the display panel 100. At least a portion of the sub-region SA and the printed circuit board 300, as well as the display driver 200, can be covered by a cover CVR. The cover CVR can be attached to the display driver 200, the sub-region SA, and the printed circuit board 300. The cover CVR can be applied to cover at least a portion of the display driver 200 and the printed circuit board 300 to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electrostatic discharge (ESD). Additionally, the cover CVR can protect the pressing portion 320 of the display driver 200 and the printed circuit board 300 from physical damage caused by friction by preventing or substantially preventing direct contact with external objects. In embodiments, the cover CVR can be made of a flexible material capable of shielding EMI, ESD, etc. For example, the cover CVR can be in the form of a strip including a metal layer. The metal layer of the cover CVR can include any of the following: metal foil, metal textile, metal mesh, etc. An adhesive layer can be disposed on the surface of the cover CVR. For example, an adhesive can be applied to the surface of the cover CVR, or double-sided tape DST can be attached to the surface of the cover CVR.

[0084] Spacer SP can be disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2. In order to reduce the non-display area NA of the display device 30, the display driver 200 can be attached to the rear surface of the display panel 100 by bending the display panel 100. In this case, spacer SP can be used as an adhesive and step compensation to fix the second region A2 of the folded display panel 100 in a bent state.

[0085] Spacer SP can be placed below cover plate CP. To prevent or substantially prevent air bubbles BU (see...) Figure 4 When the spacer SP is cut, the vent hole can be opened. In embodiments, the vent hole can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, cross-shaped, or linear.

[0086] The display device 30 according to an embodiment shows the case where the vent hole is cross-shaped and the spacer SP is imaginarily cut by a line ( Figure 4 The cross-section viewed from the side when the CL is cut. The outer edge of the vent hole may correspond to the first cutting line C1, and the second cutting line C2 may be located in the inner region of the first cutting line C1.

[0087] Figure 4 An enlarged plan view of the spacer of the display device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0088] The spacer SP can be cut to open the vent. The vent can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, cross-shaped, or linear.

[0089] Reference Figure 4The vent hole may have a first cutting line C1 and a second cutting line C2 that intersect each other. In an embodiment, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be orthogonal to each other.

[0090] The first cutting line C1 may include multiple first cutting lines C1 parallel to the second direction DR2, and the second cutting line C2 may include multiple second cutting lines C2 parallel to the third direction DR1 intersecting the second direction DR2. The spacer SP may have multiple vent holes in which the multiple first cutting lines C1 and multiple second cutting lines C2 intersect each other. In an embodiment, the multiple vent holes may be arranged in a matrix along the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1.

[0091] The spacer SP may have a first edge parallel to a third direction DR1 and a second edge parallel to a second direction DR2, and a second cutting line C2 may be parallel to the first edge and a first cutting line C1 may be parallel to the second edge. In an embodiment, the planar widths of the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be the same within a suitable tolerance range. The first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be configured to be inwardly separated from the first edge and the second edge of the spacer SP.

[0092] As another example, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may extend obliquely, while being orthogonal to each other and forming angles with respect to the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1, respectively. In an embodiment, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may extend at an oblique angle relative to the edge of the spacer SP.

[0093] In the display device 30 according to the embodiment, the vent holes of the spacer SP can be cross-shaped. If the vent holes are cross-shaped, the likelihood of vent hole recovery is low even if the adhesive portion of the spacer SP has a low modulus. Furthermore, if the release paper is peeled off to attach the spacer SP to another layer, tearing of the spacer SP can be minimized or reduced. Additionally, if the vent holes are cross-shaped, they can have a large surface area and form an air path through which air bubbles can exit in four directions on the plane, thus reducing the likelihood of air bubbles remaining in the spacer SP.

[0094] In an embodiment, to bend the edges of the display panel 100, spacers SP can be used for adhesives and step compensation to secure the folded display panel 100. In an embodiment, the spacers SP are surface-pressed under atmospheric pressure. During this process, the spacers SP are held in place and attached to the display panel 100 by vacuum adsorption using an attachment tool. In this case, air bubbles BU may be generated in the portion vacuum adsorbed by the attachment tool. As the area of ​​the spacers SP increases, the probability of air bubble BU formation may increase significantly. If air bubbles BU occur, the thickness at the corresponding location increases, which may make it impossible or difficult to assemble electronic devices due to the thickness of the display device 30.

[0095] In the display device 30 according to the embodiment, the spacer SP can be cut to open the vent hole, thereby suppressing the formation of bubbles BU, and thus providing a display device 30 that is easy to assemble when assembled into an electronic device.

[0096] Figure 5 A schematic perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment is shown, and Figure 6 A perspective view of a foldable display device included in a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0097] Reference Figure 5 The foldable electronic device 1' may include a cover window 10' containing a folding region, a foldable housing 20', and a foldable display device 30'. In embodiments, the configuration of the foldable electronic device 1' may generally have the same characteristics as referenced. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The descriptions share common structural features, and redundant descriptions can be omitted.

[0098] In this embodiment, each of the foldable electronic device 1' and the foldable display device 30' may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA (also referred to herein as a non-display area NA). The display area DA is the area in which an image is displayed and may be the area in which external input is sensed. As will be described later, the display area DA may be the area in which a plurality of pixels are disposed.

[0099] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2.

[0100] Multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and multiple pixel circuits that generate light-emitting current and transmit the light-emitting current to each of the LEDs are formed in a first display area DA1. Here, an LED and a pixel circuit section are referred to as a pixel. In an embodiment, a pixel circuit section and a light-emitting element are formed in a one-to-one ratio in the first display area DA1.

[0101] In this embodiment, the first display area DA1 can be divided into a first-first display area DA1-1, a first-second display area DA1-2, and a folding area FA. The first-first display area DA1-1 and the first-second display area DA1-2 can be positioned on the left and right sides respectively relative to the folding axis FAX (or centered on the folding axis FAX), and the folding area FA can be positioned between the first-first display area DA1-1 and the first-second display area DA1-2. In this embodiment, when folded outwards based on the folding axis FAX, the first-first display area DA1-1 and the first-second display area DA1-2 are positioned on opposite sides of the first direction DR3, and images can be displayed in both directions. When folded inwards based on the folding axis FAX, the first-first display area DA1-1 and the first-second display area DA1-2 may not be visible from the outside.

[0102] The display panel 100 included in the foldable display device 30' also has a display area DA disposed on the front surface, and the display area DA is largely divided into a first display area DA1 (also referred to herein as the main display area) and a second display area DA2 (also referred to herein as the component area).

[0103] A plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and a plurality of pixel circuits that generate light-emitting current and transmit the light-emitting current to each of the plurality of LEDs are formed in a first display area DA1. Here, each pixel may include at least one LED and at least one pixel circuit portion. A second display area DA2 may include a light-transmitting area and may additionally include pixels for displaying images. The second display area DA2 may be at least partially superimposed with optical elements (such as a camera or optical sensor). Figure 6 The second display area DA2 is shown to be circularly positioned on the upper side of the foldable display device 30', but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The second display area DA2 can be arranged in any of a variety of numbers and shapes depending on the number and shape of the optical elements.

[0104] The foldable display device 30' can receive external signals required by the optical elements through the second display area DA2, or it can provide signals output from the optical elements to the outside. In an embodiment, the second display area DA2 is configured to overlap with the light-transmitting area, so that the area of ​​the peripheral area PA used to form the light-transmitting area can be reduced.

[0105] In one or more embodiments, the boundary region may be located between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2.

[0106] The peripheral area PA can also be located outside the display area DA. In an embodiment, such as... Figure 6As shown, the second display area DA2 is surrounded by the first display area DA1. The area of ​​the display area DA can remain unchanged due to the second display area DA2, and the area of ​​the outer area PA can remain unchanged.

[0107] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, the foldable display device 30' can be a foldable and flexible display device. The foldable display device 30' can fold outwards or inwards based on a folding axis FAX. When the foldable display device 30' folds outwards based on the folding axis FAX, its display surface is located on the outer side in the first direction DR3, allowing images to be displayed in two or opposite directions. When the foldable display device 30' folds inwards based on the folding axis FAX, its display surface may not be visible from the outside.

[0108] exist Figure 6 In the diagram, a peripheral region PA is also shown outside the display region DA, and a display driver 200 is also shown within the peripheral region PA. The peripheral region PA is located outside the display region DA and can be divided into the display driver 200, connecting wiring, and a bending region AB. In one or more embodiments, a foldable display device 30' in which the display driver 200 is mounted and disposed in a second region A2 of the display panel 100 can be implemented.

[0109] In an embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, the display driver 200 is shown as being disposed in the peripheral region PA on the first direction DR3 side of the display area DA, and the display driver 200 extends in a direction parallel to the folding axis FAX, but the position of the display driver 200 may vary.

[0110] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 7 The display panel is shown along the curve after bending. Figure 6 A schematic cross-section of line B-B' in the diagram.

[0111] In the foldable display device 30' according to the embodiment, the blocking layer BAR, the metal plate PLA and the spacer SP can be disposed on the rear surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100, and the polarizing plate POL, the cover window 10' including the folding region FA and the protective layer PL can be disposed on the front surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100.

[0112] A protective layer PL can be disposed on the front surface of the display panel 100 and on the cover window 10' including the folding area FA. The protective layer PL can protect the cover window 10' including the folding area FA from impacts, etc. In an embodiment, the protective layer PL may include at least one polymer resin (such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethersulfone (PES), polypropylene (PP), and polyamide (PA)).

[0113] A cover window 10' including a folding region FA can be disposed on the display panel 100. The cover window 10' including the folding region FA can protect the display panel 100. The cover window 10' including the folding region FA can be attached to the display panel 100 using an adhesive layer ADS such as optically clear adhesive (OCA). In embodiments, the cover window 10' including the folding region FA may include a glass layer formed as completely thin or partially thin. The folding region FA can be disposed at the portion overlapping with the folding axis FAX. A light-blocking layer BM can be disposed on the portion of the cover window 10' including the folding region FA.

[0114] A polarizing plate (POL) can be positioned between the cover window 10', including the folded area FA, and the display panel 100. When external light is reflected after entering the display panel 100 and is directed to the user's eyes, the polarizing plate (POL) can prevent or substantially prevent display quality degradation or the identification of the internal structure of the display panel 100. However, in embodiments, the polarizing plate (POL) can be omitted.

[0115] The display panel 100 may have a bend BPb. A bend protection layer BPLb (or stress neutralizing layer) for relieving stress on the wiring disposed in the bend BPb may be disposed on the bend BPb.

[0116] A barrier layer BAR disposed on the rear surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100 can mitigate impacts applied from the rear surface of the first region A1 of the display panel 100. In one or more embodiments, the barrier layer BAR is formed black to prevent or substantially prevent light from being provided from the rear surface to the display panel 100, and also to prevent or substantially prevent light provided from the rear surface of the display panel 100 from being reflected and provided to the front surface. In embodiments, the barrier layer BAR may be formed of polyimide (PI). The barrier layer BAR may be disposed between the metal plate PLA and the display panel 100.

[0117] A support layer may be disposed on the rear surface of the barrier layer (BAR). In the foldable display device 30', the support layer may include a metal plate (PLA). When the foldable display device 30' is folded based on the folding axis (FAX), the metal plate (PLA) can keep the foldable display device 30' in the folded state, and the metal plate (PLA) may include a thin metal plate. The metal plate (PLA) may include at least one layer, for example, an upper metal plate and a lower metal plate. In embodiments, the metal plate (PLA) may include at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel and carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0118] The spacer SP can be disposed on the rear surface of the metal plate PLA. The spacer SP can be disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2.

[0119] The spacer SP can be cut to open the vent holes to prevent or substantially prevent the formation of air bubbles BU. In embodiments, the vent holes can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, cross-shaped, or linear.

[0120] The foldable display device 30' according to an embodiment shows a case where the vent is cross-shaped when the spacer SP is imaginarily cut by a line ( Figure 8 The cross-section viewed from the side when the CL is cut. The outer edge of the vent hole may correspond to the first cutting line C1, and the second cutting line C2 may be located in the inner region of the first cutting line C1.

[0121] Figure 8 An enlarged plan view of the spacer of the foldable display device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0122] Reference Figure 8 The spacer SP can be cut to open the vent. In embodiments, the vent can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, cross-shaped, or linear, but is not limited thereto. The vent can have a first cutting line C1 and a second cutting line C2 that intersect each other. In embodiments, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 can be orthogonal to each other.

[0123] In an embodiment, the first cutting line C1 may include multiple first cutting lines C1 parallel to the second direction DR2, and the second cutting line C2 may include multiple second cutting lines C2 parallel to the third direction DR1 intersecting the second direction DR2. The spacer SP may have multiple vent holes in which the multiple first cutting lines C1 and multiple second cutting lines C2 intersect each other. In an embodiment, the multiple vent holes may be arranged in a matrix along the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1.

[0124] The spacer SP may have a first edge parallel to a third direction DR1 and a second edge parallel to a second direction DR2. A second cutting line C2 may be parallel to the first edge, and a first cutting line C1 may be parallel to the second edge. In an embodiment, the planar widths of the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be the same within a suitable tolerance range. The first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be configured to be inwardly separated from the first and second edges of the spacer SP.

[0125] In this embodiment, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may extend obliquely, while being orthogonal to each other and forming angles with respect to the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1, respectively. In this case, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may extend at an oblique angle relative to the edge of the spacer SP.

[0126] Here, we will refer to Figures 1 to 8 Describe the manufacturing method of the display device.

[0127] The manufacturing methods of the display device 30 and the foldable display device 30' according to the embodiments are as follows. A display panel 100 is prepared, comprising a first region A1, a second region A2, and a curved region AB disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2, which are distinct from each other and continuous. Next, the curved region AB is bent such that the first region A1 and the second region A2 face each other in a first direction. Then, a spacer SP is cut to open an vent. The spacer SP forming the vent is disposed between the first region A1 and the second region A2, which face each other along the first direction DR3. In this case, the step or task of attaching a support layer to the rear surface of the display panel 100 corresponding to the first region A1 may also be included. The step or task of positioning the spacer SP may include attaching the spacer SP to the support layer.

[0128] The step or task of cutting the spacer SP to open the vent holes may include forming a first cutting line C1 and a second cutting line C2 that intersect each other. In this case, the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may be cut orthogonally to each other. In embodiments, the vent holes may be circular, elliptical, polygonal, cross-shaped, or linear, but are not limited thereto. The step of forming the first cutting line C1 and the second cutting line C2 may include forming a plurality of vent holes in the spacer SP by cutting a plurality of first cutting lines C1 that are parallel to each other in a second direction DR2 and a plurality of second cutting lines C2 that are parallel to each other in a third direction DR1 that intersects with the second direction DR2, wherein each of the plurality of first cutting lines C1 and each of the plurality of second cutting lines C2 intersects each other in the plurality of vent holes. The step of forming a plurality of vent holes may include arranging the plurality of vent holes in a matrix along the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR1.

[0129] The display device according to one or more embodiments can be applied to various electronic devices. The electronic device according to the embodiments may include the display device, and may also include modules or devices with additional functions besides the display device.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The electronic device 1 according to the embodiment may include a display module 11, a processor 12, a memory 13 and a power module 14.

[0131] The processor 12 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.

[0132] The memory 13 can store data information for the operation of the processor 12 or the display module 11. When the processor 12 executes the application stored in the memory 13, video data signals and / or input control signals are transmitted to the display module 11, and the display module 11 can process the received signals to output video information through the display screen.

[0133] The power module 14 may include a power module (such as a power adapter or battery device) and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power module to generate power for the operation of the electronic device 1.

[0134] At least one of the components of electronic device 1 may be included within the display device according to the above embodiments. In the embodiments, some modules that are functionally included in a single module may be incorporated into the display device, while other modules may be provided separately from the display device. For example, the display device may include display module 11, and processor 12, memory 13, and power module 14 may be provided within electronic device 1 as other devices that are not part of the display device.

[0135] Figure 10 Schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments are shown.

[0136] Reference Figure 10According to some embodiments, various electronic devices with display devices may include not only image display electronic devices (such as smartphones 1_1a, tablet PCs 1_1b, laptop computers 1_1c, TVs 1_1d, and desktop monitors 1_1e), but also wearable electronic devices with display modules (such as smart glasses 1_2a, head-mounted displays 1_2b, and smartwatches 1_2c) and automotive electronic devices with display modules 1_3 (such as automotive electronic devices placed on car dashboards, central dashboards, CID (central information displays), interior mirror displays, etc.).

[0137] While some embodiments of this disclosure have been described in conjunction with what are now considered to be actual embodiments, it will be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, The display device includes: A display panel includes a first region, a second region, and a curved region between the first region and the second region, wherein the first region, the second region, and the curved region are continuous, and the curved region is curved such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; and A spacer between the first region and the second region, which face each other along the first direction. The spacer includes a cut line that is cut to open the vent.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spacer includes a first cut line and a second cut line that intersect each other to define the vent hole.

3. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first cutting line and the second cutting line are orthogonal to each other.

4. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first cutting line includes a plurality of first cutting lines parallel to each other in a second direction, and the second cutting line includes a plurality of second cutting lines parallel to each other in a third direction intersecting the second direction. The spacer includes a plurality of vent holes, in which the plurality of first cutting lines and the plurality of second cutting lines intersect each other.

5. The display device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of exhaust ports are arranged in a matrix along the second direction and the third direction.

6. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display device further includes: The display driver is installed in the second area; and A printed circuit board is connected to the end of the second region.

7. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display device also includes a support layer comprising a first surface and a second surface facing each other. The display panel is supported on the first surface, and the spacer is supported on the second surface.

8. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A cover window, including a folding area, is arranged on the display panel.

9. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, A protective layer is disposed on the cover window, which includes the folded area.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes: Memory; The processor is configured to execute an application stored in the memory; and The display device includes a display module configured to output video information provided by the application. The display device includes: a display panel comprising a first region, a second region, and a curved region between the first region and the second region, wherein the first region, the second region, and the curved region are continuous, and the curved region is curved such that the first region and the second region face each other in a first direction; and a spacer between the first region and the second region facing each other along the first direction. The spacer includes a cut line that is cut to open the vent.

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