DISPLAY DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A BENDING POSITION OF THE DISPLAY DEVICE

DE102024129684A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-08-28LG DISPLAY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102024129684
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-02-22
Filing Date
2024-10-14
Publication Date
2025-08-28

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Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a flexible display panel that displays an image, an array film of piezoelectric elements that overlaps the display panel, piezoelectric power generation elements arranged in a matrix structure, and detects a capacitance change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generation elements according to the bending of the display panel, a readout circuit that receives and processes a bending detection signal including the capacitance change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generation elements, and a readout processor that detects whether bending of the display panel occurs and a position at which the bending occurs based on the bending detection signal.
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Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0025771, filed on February 22, 2024. Area

[0002] Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a display device and a method for detecting a bending position of the display device. Description of the state of the art

[0003] A display device displays various images to provide information to the user. Flexible displays have recently been developed. Unlike flat-panel displays, flexible displays can be folded or rolled like paper. A flexible display device that can be changed into various shapes is easy to carry and can improve user convenience. SHORT SUMMARY

[0004] It is an object to provide a display device and a method for detecting a bending position of the display device, which can detect whether a flexible display device is bent or detect the bending position.

[0005] The object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0006] A display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a flexible display panel that displays an image, an array film of piezoelectric elements that overlaps with the display panel, piezoelectric power generation elements arranged in a matrix structure, and detects a capacitance change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generation elements according to a bending of the display panel, a readout circuit that receives and processes a bending detection signal including the capacitance change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generation elements, and a readout processor that detects whether bending of the display panel occurs and a position at which the bending occurs based on the bending detection signal.

[0007] A method for detecting a bending position of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include detecting, by a readout processor, a touch signal generated at a display panel in a touch mode section based on an integrated contact point, and detecting, by the readout processor, a bending detection signal generated at the display panel in a bending mode section based on the integrated contact point. Detecting the bending signal includes detecting, by coordinates, a capacitance change amount occurring in piezoelectric power generation elements provided in a matrix structure and overlapping with the display panel, and detecting bending coordinates at which bending occurs based on the capacitance change amount detected by coordinates of the piezoelectric power generation elements.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the array film of piezoelectric elements may comprise unit sections divided into a matrix structure.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, each of the unit portions may overlap with an area in which a plurality of subpixels are arranged.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the unit portions of the array film of piezoelectric elements may be arranged adjacent to each other on the same line in a horizontal direction.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the unit portions of the piezoelectric element array film may include a first unit portion adjacent to a bezel region, a third unit portion adjacent to a central region, and a second unit portion disposed between the first unit portion and the third unit portion.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the piezoelectric power generating element may include a first capacitor having a first surface electrode provided in each of the first unit portion, the second unit portion, and the third unit portion, and a second surface electrode spaced from and facing the first surface electrode by a predetermined interval.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, areas in which the first capacitors provided in the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section, respectively, can occupy a plane of each unit section are the same.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, when the first capacitor provided in each of the first unit portion, the second unit portion, and the third unit portion can approach the bezel region, an area in which the first capacitor occupies a plane of each of the unit portions may decrease.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, a first bend detection line may be connected one-to-one between the first surface electrode and the readout circuit.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, a second bend detection line may be connected one-to-one between the second surface electrode and the readout circuit in each of the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, a first bend detection line may be connected one-to-one to the first surface electrode in each of the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, a plurality of first bending detection lines connected to the first to third unit sections may be shared as a first integrated electrode line in the bezel area of ​​the display panel.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, a first bend detection line may be connected one-to-one to the first surface electrode in each of the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, a plurality of second bending detection lines connected to the first to third unit sections may be shared as a second integrated electrode line in the bezel area of ​​the display panel.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the piezoelectric power generating element may be a second capacitor having a first comb electrode provided in each of the first unit portion, the second unit portion, and the third unit portion, and a second comb electrode having comb teeth arranged alternately with comb teeth of the first comb electrode.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the second capacitor provided in each of the first unit portion, the second unit portion, and the third unit portion may decrease in the vertical length of the first comb electrode and the second comb electrode as it approaches the bezel region.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, a third bend detection line may be connected one-to-one between the first comb electrode provided in each of the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section and the readout circuit.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, a fourth bend detection line may be connected one-to-one between the second comb electrode and the readout circuit.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the readout processor may compare the amount of capacitance change detected for each unit section to a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the readout processor may compare the amount of capacitance change detected for each unit section to a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, bending occurrence estimation ranges set for the first capacitors having different areas occupying the plane for each unit section may be different from each other.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the bending occurrence estimation ranges set for the first capacitors provided in each of the first unit section, the second unit section, and the third unit section may not overlap with each other.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, detecting the position at which the bending occurs may include detecting coordinates at which the capacitance change amount is greater than a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range as bending coordinates of the bending using coordinates of the piezoelectric power generating elements.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the touch mode portion and the bend mode portion may be determined by time-dividing a blanking portion of a frame period.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the method may further comprise storing, by the readout processor, a bend detection signal having bend coordinates at which an occurrence of the bend is estimated.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the method may further comprise changing, by the readout processor, a threshold signal level of a touch electrode disposed in a touch pad position corresponding to the bend coordinates in a next touch mode portion based on the stored bend detection signal.

[0033] According to embodiments of the disclosure, it is possible to detect a bend in a flexible display device and to accurately detect the position of the bend.

[0034] According to embodiments of the disclosure, it is possible to reduce the area occupied by bend detection lines in the bezel region and consequently to reduce the width of the bezel region.

[0035] According to embodiments of the disclosure, since bending detection lines supplying a common electrode to an array film of piezoelectric elements are divided as a divided bending detection line, it is possible to increase the utilization efficiency of elements relative to the area occupied by the signal lines and reduce the weight of the display device. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0036] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a view schematically illustrating a system configuration of a display device according to embodiments of the disclosure; Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 3 is a partial plan view showing a display device with the array film of piezoelectric elements of Fig. 2 represents; Fig. 4A is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generating element according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 4B, Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D are partial plan views illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generation element and a bending detection line arranged on an array film of piezoelectric elements according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 5 is a plan view illustrating an example of a change in capacitance for each unit portion of an array film of piezoelectric elements according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 6A is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generating element according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 6B is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generation element and a bending detection line arranged on a piezoelectric element array film according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B are cross-sectional views illustrating examples of a cross-sectional structure of a display device that detects bending position coordinates, one embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a switch adopted in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 9 is an example plan view illustrating a degree of strain caused in an array film of piezoelectric elements when bending occurs in a display panel according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 10 is a 3D graph illustrating an example of curvature due to bending of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a bending position of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In the following description of examples or embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which specific examples or embodiments that may be implemented are shown for illustration, and in which the same reference numbers and reference characters may be used to refer to the same or similar components even if they are shown in different accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description of examples or embodiments of the disclosure, detailed descriptions of well-known functions and components included herein are omitted when it is determined that the description may make the subject matter rather unclear in some embodiments of the disclosure. The terms such as"Including," "with," "contain," "consist of," and "consisting of," as used herein, are generally intended to allow for the addition of other components unless the terms are used with the term "only." As used herein, singular forms are intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," "A," "B," "(A)," or "(B)" may be used herein to describe elements of the disclosure. Each of these terms is not used to define the nature, order, sequence, or number of elements, etc., but is used merely to distinguish the corresponding element from other elements.

[0039] When it is mentioned that a first element is “connected or coupled,” “contacts or overlaps,” etc., with a second element, it should be interpreted that not only the first element may be “directly connected or coupled,” or “directly contact or overlap” with the second element, but also a third element may be “interposed” between the first and second elements, or the first and second elements may be “connected or coupled,” “contact or overlap” with each other via a fourth element, etc. Here, the second element may be included in at least one of two or more elements that are “connected or coupled,” “contact or overlap,” etc.

[0040] When temporally relative terms such as "after," "following," "next," "before," and the like are used to describe processes or operations of elements or configurations or sequences or steps in methods of operation, processing, or manufacturing, these terms may be used to describe non-consecutive or non-sequential processes or operations unless the term "direct" or "immediate" is used together.

[0041] When mentioning any dimensions, relative sizes, etc., it should also be considered that numerical values ​​for elements or characteristics, or corresponding information (e.g., level, range, etc.), include a tolerance or error range that may be caused by various factors (e.g., process factors, internal or external influences, noise, etc.), even if a relevant description is not provided. Furthermore, the term "may" fully encompasses all meanings of the term "can."

[0042] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] Fig. 1 is a view illustrating a system of a display device according to the present embodiments. Referring to Fig. 1, a display device 100 according to the present embodiments may include a display panel 110 and various circuits.

[0044] The display device 100 according to the present embodiments can perform a display function for displaying an image, a touch function for detecting a touch by a pointer such as a finger and a stylus, and a bending function for detecting a bending of the display device.

[0045] Thus, the display device 100 according to the present embodiments may operate in a display mode during a display mode portion for the display function, may operate in a touch mode during a touch mode portion for the touch function, or may operate in a bend mode during a bend mode portion for the bend function.

[0046] The display mode section, the touch mode section, and the bending mode section may be separated in time or may be the same section in time.

[0047] In other words, the display mode operation for image display, the touch mode operation for touch sensing, and the bend mode operation for bend sensing can be performed separately, or the display mode operation for image display, the touch mode operation for touch sensing, and the bend mode operation for bend sensing can be performed together. For example, the touch mode operation and the bend mode operation can be determined by time-dividing a blanking section of one frame period.

[0048] On the display panel 110 of the embodiments, a plurality of data lines DL and a plurality of gate lines GL may be arranged for displaying an image, and a plurality of sub-pixels SP defined by the plurality of data lines DL and the plurality of gate lines GL may be arranged. Furthermore, the display panel 110 of the embodiments may simultaneously function as a touch screen panel (TSP). For this purpose, a plurality of touch electrodes TE, which serve as touch sensors for touch detection, may be arranged on the display panel 110 according to the present embodiments.

[0049] Furthermore, the display panel 110 of embodiments can simultaneously serve as a flexible panel. For this purpose, a plurality of piezoelectric power generation elements BE, which serve as bending sensors for bending detection, can be arranged on the display panel 110 of embodiments. The plurality of piezoelectric power generation elements BE can be arranged in a matrix structure on a piezoelectric element array film 10 with a size corresponding to the display panel 110.

[0050] With reference to Fig. 1, the display device 100 may include a data drive circuit DDC and a gate drive circuit GDC for driving the display panel 110 during the display mode portion. The display device 100 may further include at least one controller for controlling the operation timing or power supply of the data drive circuit DDC and the gate drive circuit GDC.

[0051] With reference to Fig. 1, to drive the display panel 110 during the touch mode portion, the display device 100 may include a readout circuit (or a readout integrated circuit, hereinafter referred to as "ROIC") for driving the plurality of touch electrodes TE and a readout processor RP for determining the presence or absence of a touch and / or the position of a touch based on a signal received from the touch electrodes TE to which a touch drive signal TDS is applied in the touch mode portion. The readout processor may be a touch processor.

[0052] The readout circuit ROIC can supply a touch drive signal TDS to the plurality of touch electrodes TE to drive the plurality of touch electrodes TE. Furthermore, the readout circuit ROIC can receive a touch detection signal TSS from each touch electrode TE to which the touch drive signal TDS is supplied.

[0053] The readout circuit ROIC transmits the received touch detection signal TSS or detection data obtained by processing the received touch detection signal TSS to the readout processor RP.

[0054] The readout processor RP may execute a touch algorithm using the touch detection signal TSS or the detection data, thereby determining the presence or absence of a touch and / or the position of a touch.

[0055] As described above, the display device 100 of embodiments uses a self-capacitance-based touch sensing scheme to detect the presence or absence of a touch and / or the position of a touch by identifying a change in capacitance between each touch electrode TE and a pointer. In other words, in the display device 100 of embodiments, a touch drive signal TDS is applied to each touch electrode TE, and a touch sensing signal TSS is detected.

[0056] Alternatively, the display device 100 of embodiments may use a mutual capacitance-based touch sensing scheme. For convenience of description, the disclosure will be described below using self-capacitance touch sensing as an example.

[0057] With reference to Fig. 1, to drive the display panel 110, the display device 100 may include a readout circuit ROIC for driving a plurality of piezoelectric power generating elements BE and a bending processor for determining whether a bend exists and / or a bending position based on a signal received from the piezoelectric power generating elements BE to which a bending drive signal BDS is applied. Here, the bending processor may be implemented by integrating it with the readout processor RP. Hereinafter, the bending processor will be described as the readout processor RP.

[0058] The readout circuit ROIC can supply a bending drive signal BDS to the plurality of piezoelectric power generating elements BE to drive the plurality of piezoelectric power generating elements BE. Furthermore, the readout circuit ROIC can receive a bending detection signal BSS from each of the piezoelectric power generating elements BE to which the bending drive signal BDS is supplied.

[0059] The readout circuit ROIC transmits the received bending detection signal BSS or bending data obtained by signal processing of the bending detection signal BSS to the readout processor RP.

[0060] Meanwhile, the data drive circuit DDC, the gate drive circuit GDC, the readout circuit ROIC, and the readout processor RP mentioned above are so classified in terms of functions and may be implemented separately, or in some cases, two or more of the data drive circuit DDC, the gate drive circuit GDC, the readout circuit ROIC, and the readout processor RP may be integrated.

[0061] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Fig. 3 is a partial plan view showing a display device with the array film of piezoelectric elements of Fig. 2 represents.

[0062] The display device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include the array film 10 of piezoelectric elements and the readout processor RP to implement three-dimensional (3D) input. For example, the occurrence of bending may be detected by the array film 10 of piezoelectric elements integrated into the display device 100. The degree of strain caused by the bending may be calculated as a digital value by the readout processor RP, and three-dimensional coordinates may be detected from the position of the bending and the digital value corresponding to the degree of strain.

[0063] The touch panel 15 includes a plurality of touch electrodes TE. The piezoelectric element array film 10 includes a plurality of piezoelectric power generation elements BE.

[0064] With reference to Fig. 1 to 3, a display device 100 may include a display panel 110 that displays an image, touch electrodes TE arranged above the display panel 110, a touch line TL connected from the touch electrodes TE to a readout circuit ROIC, a piezoelectric element array film 10 arranged below the display panel 110, piezoelectric power generation elements BE arranged in a matrix structure on the piezoelectric element array film 10, a bending detection line BL connected to each piezoelectric power generation element BE, a touch detection pad T-PAD commonly connected to the touch line TL and the bending detection line BL, a readout circuit ROIC, and a touch controller RP.

[0065] In the touch mode, the touch detection pad T-PAD may be connected to the touch panel 15 to transmit the touch drive signal TDS to the touch panel 15 through the readout circuit ROIC, and may transmit the touch detection signal TSS received from the touch panel 15 to the readout circuit ROIC.

[0066] In the bending mode, the touch detection pad T-PAD may be connected to the piezoelectric element array film 10 to transmit the bending drive signal BDS to the piezoelectric element array film 10 through the readout circuit ROIC, and may transmit the bending detection signal BSS received from the piezoelectric element array film 10 to the readout circuit ROIC.

[0067] With reference to Fig. 1, the touch panel 15 may comprise a plurality of touch electrodes TE.

[0068] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, the piezoelectric element array film 10 may include a plurality of piezoelectric power generating elements BE, 20.

[0069] The piezoelectric element array film 10 may include piezoelectric power generating elements BE that overlap with the display panel 110 and are arranged in a matrix structure in each unit portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10.

[0070] In other words, the piezoelectric element array film 10 may include unit portions 20 arranged in a matrix structure, and each unit portion 20 may overlap with a region in which a plurality of sub-pixels are arranged.

[0071] The piezoelectric element array film 10 may be provided with the same area as the display panel 110. Alternatively, the piezoelectric element array film 10 may be provided with an area having a smaller plane than the display panel 110.

[0072] The piezoelectric element array film 10 may include piezoelectric power generating elements BE in which a physical change due to bending occurs in each unit portion 20 when bending occurs at the display panel 110.

[0073] Each of the piezoelectric power generating elements BE may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC through the bending detection line BL, and the bending detection signal BSS including the physical change generated by each of the piezoelectric power generating elements BE may be transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the bending detection line BL.

[0074] In one embodiment, the bending detection signal BSS with the physical change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generating element BE may be transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the bending detection line BL(+).

[0075] When a bending occurs at the display panel 110, the piezoelectric element array film 10 itself can detect a physical change occurring in the piezoelectric power generation elements BE due to the bending, and transmit the bending detection signal BSS with the physical change to the readout circuit ROIC.

[0076] The readout circuit ROIC may transmit bending data obtained by signal processing of the bending detection signal BSS to the touch controller RP, and the touch controller RP may detect whether bending occurs and / or detect the position of the bending based on the bending data with physical changes taking place in each of the piezoelectric power generation elements BE.

[0077] The area size of a touch electrode TE may be the same as or similar to the area size of a sub-pixel, but may correspond to the area size of two or more sub-pixels for touch sensing efficiency.

[0078] Furthermore, the size of the unit portion 20 of the matrix structure having a piezoelectric power generating element BE in the piezoelectric element array film 10 may be equal to the area size of two or more sub-pixels or may be larger than the area size of the touch electrode TE. Fig. 1 illustrates an example in which a unit section 20 of the piezoelectric element array film 10 corresponds to four touch electrodes TE, but the size of the unit section is not limited thereto.

[0079] With reference to a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of the Fig. 2, a touch pad T-PAD may be connected to at least one end of the touch panel 15, a portable panel 110 provided as a base panel may be arranged under the touch panel 15, and an array film 10 of piezoelectric elements may be arranged under the portable panel 110.

[0080] A mounting jig 11 for fixing the piezoelectric element array film 10 shown under the piezoelectric element array film 10 is a component including a mounting jig such that a concave or convex portion is formed in at least a portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10, and may be a component used only during the process.

[0081] When the piezoelectric element array film 10 is pressed to the wearable panel 110 and the touch pad T-PAD, at least a portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10 can be convexly bent by the piezoelectric element array film fixing jig 11 so that the touch pad T-PAD and the piezoelectric element array film 10 can come into contact with each other.

[0082] Fig. 4A is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generating element according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 4B, Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D are partial plan views illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generation element and a bending detection line arranged on an array film of piezoelectric elements according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0083] As in Fig. 4A, the piezoelectric power generating element BE according to an embodiment of the disclosure may be provided as a surface electrode (surface-type electrode) 200 or may be provided as a comb electrode (comb-type electrode) 600 as shown in Fig. 6A.

[0084] The piezoelectric power generating element BE, which is provided as a surface electrode 200, may comprise a first capacitor having a first surface electrode 204 and a second surface electrode 202 facing the first surface electrode 204.

[0085] An elastic layer formed of a flexible material may be provided between the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202, and since the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 are arranged to face each other, a piezoelectric power generating element BE having the same structure as a capacitive element can be implemented.

[0086] The surface electrode 200 may be provided as a pair of the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 for each unit section 20. Consequently, the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 can maintain the shape of the piezoelectric element array film 10 and protect the internal components of the piezoelectric element array film 10 from external influences. Furthermore, the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 may be made of flexible materials. Specifically, the first surface electrode 204 may have a relatively weak strength compared to the second surface electrode 202, so that it bends in response to a weak pressure applied from the outside.

[0087] The first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 may be formed from a conductive metal.

[0088] The elastic layer (not shown) between the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 may comprise silicone, polymer, or the like. As an example of the polymer, one of polyimide and polyurethane may be included. However, the material of the elastic layer is not limited to this, but various materials can be used that meet the conditions of being contracted by external pressure, having elasticity to return to its original shape when the applied pressure is removed, and being an insulating material that electrically insulates the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202.

[0089] Furthermore, the elastic layer can be formed from an intelligent fluid and a material such as silicone or polymer.

[0090] With reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4B, some unit portions 21, 22, and 23 of the piezoelectric element array film 10 may be arranged adjacent to each other on the same line in the horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the piezoelectric element array film 10 may include a first unit portion 21 adjacent to the bezel region BA, a third unit portion 23 adjacent to the central region of the display panel 110, and a second unit portion 22 disposed between the first unit portion 21 and the third unit portion 23. These unit portions 21 to 23 represent a partial region of the piezoelectric element array film 10 for convenience of description, and the number or shape of the unit portions included in the piezoelectric element array film 10 is not limited thereto.

[0091] With reference to Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, the piezoelectric power generating element BE may include first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c having a first surface electrode 204 and a second surface electrode 202 facing the first surface electrode 204, which are provided in the first unit portion 21, the second unit portion 22, and the third unit portion 23, respectively.

[0092] In this case, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4B, the areas in which the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c, respectively provided in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23, occupy the plane of each unit section may be equal. Here, the areas of the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23 are equal.

[0093] Alternatively, as in Fig. 4D, the areas in which the first capacitors 200d, 200e and 200f provided in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22 and the third unit section 23 respectively occupy the plane of each unit section may be different.

[0094] In other words, the first capacitor 200d provided in the first unit section 21, the first capacitor 200e provided in the second unit section 22, and the first capacitor 200f provided in the third unit section 23 may have different areas occupying the plane of each unit section. Here, the areas of the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23 are different.

[0095] For example, when the first capacitor 200d provided in the first unit section 21, the first capacitor 200e provided in the second unit section 22, and the first capacitor 200f provided in the third unit section 23 approach the bezel area BA, the area occupying the plane of each unit section 20 can be reduced.

[0096] With reference to Fig. 4A, the first surface electrode 204 provided in the unit section 20 may be connected to a bending detection line BL(+) for transmitting a positive signal, and the second surface electrode 202 may be connected to a bending detection line BL(-) for transmitting a negative signal. The two bending detection lines BL(-) and BL(+) connect the piezoelectric power generating element BE, which consists of the surface electrodes 202 and 204, and the readout circuit ROIC ( Fig. 3) electric.

[0097] The first surface electrode 204 may be connected one-to-one to the first bending detection line BL(+) and the second surface electrode 202 may be connected one-to-one to the second bending detection line BL(-).

[0098] With reference to Fig. 4B, the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200a provided in the first unit portion 21 may be connected to the first bending detection line BL4, and the second surface electrode 202 may be connected to the second bending detection line BL3.

[0099] The first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200b provided in the second unit section 22 may be connected to the first bending detection line BL5, and the second surface electrode 202 may be connected to the second bending detection line BL2.

[0100] The first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200c provided in the third unit section 23 may be connected to the first bending detection line BL6, and the second surface electrode 202 may be connected to the second bending detection line BL1.

[0101] As in Fig. 4B, when the first surface electrode 204 and the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor, which are arranged as piezoelectric power generation elements BE in each unit section, are connected one-to-one to the first bending detection lines BL4, BL5, and BL6 and the second bending detection lines BL1, BL2, and BL3, the width of the enclosure region in which the first and second bending detection lines BL1 to BL6 are arranged cannot be reduced.

[0102] In other words, in order to transmit the signal generated from the piezoelectric element array film 10 in which the plurality of piezoelectric power generating elements BE are arranged to the readout circuit ROIC, the bending detection lines BL are wired to the left and right bezel regions BA of the display panel 110, and the width of the bezel region BA can be determined according to the number of bending detection lines BL.

[0103] When precision in the degree of bending of the display panel 110 is required, the resolution must be increased, and consequently, more piezoelectric power generation elements BE must be arranged. Consequently, the number of bending detection lines BL arranged in the bezel region BA increases, resulting in an increase in the width of the bezel region BA.

[0104] To improve such a problem, in one embodiment of the disclosure, as shown in Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D, bend detection pitches CL1(-) and CL2(+), which share at least two bend detection lines, are shown in the enclosure area BA.

[0105] In particular, with reference to Fig. 4C, the second bending detection line BL3 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200a provided in the first unit section 21, the second bending detection line BL2 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200b provided in the second unit section 22, and the second bending detection line BL1 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200c provided in the third unit section 23 may be commonly connected to a first common bending detection line CL1 in the bezel region BA.

[0106] Here, the first common bending detection line CL1(-) allows a common voltage (or a negative voltage) of the same potential to be applied from the readout circuit ROIC to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c arranged in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23, respectively.

[0107] Since the common voltage of the same potential can be applied to each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c, the first common bending detection line CL1(-) shared with each of the second bending detection lines BL3, BL2, and BL1 can be used.

[0108] Consequently, in the examples given in Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D, the area occupied by the bend detection lines in the enclosure area BA can be reduced and consequently the width of the enclosure area BA can be reduced compared to that shown in Fig. 4B shown example.

[0109] In Fig. 4C, each of the first bending detection line BL4 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200a provided in the first unit section 21, the first bending detection line BL5 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200b provided in the second unit section 22, and the first bending detection line BL6 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200c provided in the third unit section 23 may be connected one-to-one to the readout circuit ROIC through the bezel region BA.

[0110] Consequently, bending detection signals generated by bending in each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c arranged in the different unit sections 21, 22, and 23 can be transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the first bending detection lines BL4, BL5, and BL6 connected one-to-one to each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c.

[0111] Consequently, physical changes generated in different sizes at the same time in each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b and 200c due to the bending of the display panel 110 can be transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the independent first bending detection lines BL4, BL5 and BL6.

[0112] This corresponds to a detection method using a phenomenon in which electrical changes occur when pressure is applied to a material. In other words, the bending occurring at the display panel 110 can be detected using the piezoelectric effect, in which a potential is generated across the side surface of the crystal forming the material when pressure is applied to the material from the outside.

[0113] Specifically, a positive charge can be applied to the first surface electrode 204 and a negative charge can be applied to the opposite second surface electrode 202, and a voltage value between the two surface electrodes is detected. There is no voltage input at the expressed (+) and (-) electrodes, and only the voltage generated by bending can be detected at the (+) electrode (the first surface electrode 204) to obtain a detection value (voltage value), thereby detecting an electrical change due to bending.

[0114] With reference to Fig. 4D, as in Fig. 4C, the second bending detection line BL3 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200a provided in the first unit section 21, the second bending detection line BL2 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200b provided in the second unit section 22, and the second bending detection line BL1 connected to the second surface electrode 202 of the first capacitor 200c provided in the third unit section 23 may be integrated and connected to the first common bending detection line CL1 in the bezel region BA.

[0115] Likewise, Fig. 4D, the first common bending detection line CL1, that a common voltage (or a negative voltage) of the same potential is applied from the readout circuit ROIC to the second surface electrodes 202 of the first capacitors 200a, 200b and 200c arranged in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22 and the third unit section 23, respectively.

[0116] Since the common voltage of the same potential can be applied to each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c, the first common bending detection line CL1(-) shared with each of the second bending detection lines BL3, BL2, and BL1 can be used.

[0117] In contrast to the Fig. 4C can, on the other hand, be used in the example shown in Fig. 4D, the first bending detection line BL4 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200a provided in the first unit section 21, the first bending detection line BL5 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200b provided in the second unit section 22, and the first bending detection line BL6 connected to the first surface electrode 204 of the first capacitor 200c provided in the third unit section 23 may be integrated and connected to the second common bending detection line CL2 (+) in the bezel region BA.

[0118] In order to independently transmit the bend detection signals generated in each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b and 200c to the readout circuit ROIC through the second common bend detection line CL2(+), a difference in the capacitance of each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b and 200c may be established.

[0119] A difference may be established in the capacitance of each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c so that ranges of physical change amounts occurring in each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c do not overlap with each other due to the bending occurring in the display panel 110.

[0120] Consequently, the readout circuit ROIC can estimate the unit section in which the bend detection signal is generated in the first capacitor among the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23 based on the size range of the bend detection signal transmitted through the second common bend detection line CL2(+).

[0121] For example, for the first capacitor 200a arranged in the first unit section 21, when bending occurs on the display panel 110, a change in capacitance can be set as the bending occurrence estimation range from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 10, for the first capacitor 200b, a change in capacitance can be set as the bending occurrence estimation range from a minimum of 20 to a maximum of 29, and for the first capacitor 200c, a change in capacitance can be set as the bending occurrence estimation range from a minimum of 30 to 39. Each of the bending occurrence estimation ranges described above is an example of a relative numerical value with respect to capacitance and is not an absolute numerical value of the change in capacitance of each of the first capacitors 200a, 200b, and 200c.

[0122] If this is applied to the array film 10 of piezoelectric elements formed in Fig. 5, since the change in capacitance of each of the first capacitors 200b arranged in the unit sections P12, P22, P32, P42, and P52 arranged in the column direction of the piezoelectric element array film 10 is 20 or more, which corresponds to the bending occurrence estimation range, the readout circuit ROIC can estimate the occurrence of bending in a direction of connection of the unit sections P12, P22, P32, P42, and P52 based on the change in capacitance. Further, the bending occurrence position can be estimated based on the unit sections P12, P22, P32, P42, and P52.

[0123] Further, since the change in capacitance of each of the third capacitors 200c arranged in the unit sections P16, P26, P36, P46, and P56 arranged in the column direction in the piezoelectric element array film 10 is 30 or more, which corresponds to the bending occurrence estimation range, the readout circuit ROIC can estimate the bending occurrence in the position and direction of connection of the unit sections P16, P26, P36, P46, and P56 based on the change value of the capacitance.

[0124] Fig. 6A is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generating element according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 6B is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a piezoelectric power generation element and a bending detection line arranged on a piezoelectric element array film 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0125] With reference to Fig. 6A, the piezoelectric power generating element BE may be provided as a comb electrode (comb type electrode) 600.

[0126] The piezoelectric power generating element BE, which is provided as a comb electrode 600, may include a first comb electrode 602 and a second comb electrode 604.

[0127] Specifically, in the comb electrode 600, the plurality of first comb teeth 602 of the first comb electrode 602 and the plurality of second comb teeth 604 of the second comb electrode 604 are alternately arranged, so that the pair of the first comb teeth 602 and the second comb teeth 604 form a small capacitor, and these small capacitors are connected to form a large capacitor. With this structure, the capacitor configured for each unit section 20 of the piezoelectric element array film 10 can be referred to as a second capacitor.

[0128] An elastic layer of a flexible material may be provided between the first comb electrode 602 and the second comb electrode 604, and since the plurality of first comb teeth 602 of the first comb electrode 602 and the plurality of second comb teeth 604 of the second comb electrode 604 are arranged to face each other, a piezoelectric power generating element BE having the same structure as a capacitive element can be implemented.

[0129] Since the plurality of first comb teeth 602 and the plurality of second comb teeth 604 as the comb electrode 600 are alternately arranged in each unit section 20, the second capacitor can be arranged.

[0130] The first comb electrode 602 and the second comb electrode 604 may be flexible materials.

[0131] The first comb electrode 602 and the second comb electrode 604 may be formed of a conductive metal.

[0132] The elastic layer (not shown) between the first comb electrode 602 and the second comb electrode 604 may comprise silicone, polymer, or the like. As an example of the polymer, one of polyimide and polyurethane may be included. However, the material of the elastic layer is not limited to this, but various materials can be used that meet the conditions of being contracted by external pressure, having elasticity to return to its original shape when the applied pressure is removed, and being an insulating material that electrically insulates the first comb electrode 602 and the second comb electrode 604.

[0133] Furthermore, the elastic layer can be formed from an intelligent fluid and a material such as silicone or polymer.

[0134] With reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 6B, some unit portions 21, 22, and 23 of the piezoelectric element array film 10 may be arranged adjacent to each other on the same line in the horizontal direction, and may include a first unit portion 21 adjacent to the bezel region BA, a third unit portion 23 adjacent to the central region of the display panel 110, and a second unit portion 22 disposed between the first unit portion 21 and the third unit portion 23. These unit portions 21 to 23 represent a partial region of the piezoelectric element array film 10 for convenience of description, and the unit portions included in the piezoelectric element array film 10 are not limited thereto.

[0135] With reference to Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B, the piezoelectric power generating element BE may include second capacitors 600a, 600b, and 600c in which a plurality of first comb teeth of the first comb electrode 604 and a plurality of second comb teeth of the second comb electrode 602 provided in each of the first unit portion 21, the second unit portion 22, and the third unit portion 23 are alternately arranged.

[0136] In this case, as in Fig. 6B, the second capacitor 600a provided in the first unit portion 21, the second capacitor 600b provided in the second unit portion 22, and the second capacitor 600c provided in the third unit portion 23 may be formed such that the length in the vertical direction of the first comb electrode 604 and the second comb electrode 602 constituting each capacitor decreases as they approach the bezel region BA.

[0137] Consequently, the areas in which the second capacitors 600a, 600b and 600c provided in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22 and the third unit section 23 respectively occupy the plane of each unit section may be different.

[0138] In other words, the second capacitor 600a provided in the first unit section 21, the second capacitor 600b provided in the second unit section 22, and the second capacitor 600c provided in the third unit section 23 may have different areas occupying the plane of each unit section. Here, the areas of the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23 may be different or the same.

[0139] For example, when the second capacitor 600a provided in the first unit portion 21, the second capacitor 600b provided in the second unit portion 22, and the second capacitor 600c provided in the third unit portion 23 approach the bezel area BA, the area occupying the plane of each unit portion can be reduced.

[0140] With reference to Fig. 6A, the comb electrode 600 provided in the unit section 20 may be connected to the bending detection line BL. The bending detection line BL connects the piezoelectric power generating element BE, which consists of the comb electrode 600, and the readout circuit ROIC ( Fig. 3) electric.

[0141] The first comb electrode 604 provided in the unit section 20 may be connected to the bending detection line BL(+) for transmitting a positive signal, and the second comb electrode 602 may be connected to the bending detection line BL(-) for transmitting a negative signal. The two bending detection lines BL(-) and BL(+) connect the piezoelectric power generation element BE, which consists of the comb electrodes 602 and 604, and the readout circuit ROIC ( Fig. 3) electric.

[0142] Here, the first comb electrode 604 may be connected one-to-one to the second bending detection line BL(+), and the second comb electrode 602 may be connected one-to-one to the first bending detection line BL(-).

[0143] With reference to Fig. 6B, the first comb electrode 604 of the second capacitor 600a provided in the first unit section 21 may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC ( Fig. 3) be connected through the bending detection line BL8 and the second comb electrode 602 can be connected to the readout circuit ROIC ( Fig. 3) be connected by the third bending detection line BL7.

[0144] The first comb electrode 604 of the second capacitor 600b provided in the second unit section 22 may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC through the fourth bending detection line BL10, and the second comb electrode 602 may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC through the third bending detection line BL9.

[0145] The first comb electrode 604 of the second capacitor 600c provided in the third unit section 23 may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC through the fourth bending detection line BL12, and the second comb electrode 602 may be connected to the readout circuit ROIC through the third bending detection line BL11.

[0146] Each of the third bending detection lines BL7, BL9, and BL11 can allow a common voltage (or a negative voltage) from the readout circuit ROIC to be applied to the second comb electrode 602 of the second capacitors 600a, 600b, and 600c arranged in the first unit section 21, the second unit section 22, and the third unit section 23, respectively.

[0147] Bending detection signals generated by bending in each of the second capacitors 600a, 600b, and 600c arranged in the different unit sections 21, 22, and 23 are transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the fourth bending detection lines BL8, BL10, and BL12, which are connected one-to-one to the second capacitors 600a, 600b, and 600c, respectively, whereby physical changes generated in different sizes at the same time in each of the second capacitors 600a, 600b, and 600c due to the bending of the display panel 110 are transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the independent fourth bending detection lines BL8, BL10, and BL12.

[0148] Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B are cross-sectional views illustrating examples of a cross-sectional structure of a display device that detects bending position coordinates according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0149] With reference to Fig. 7A, a display device 100 in one embodiment may include a display panel 110 that displays an image, touch electrodes 15 arranged on the display panel 110, a touch line TL connected from the touch electrodes 15 to a readout circuit ROIC, a piezoelectric element array film 10 arranged below the display panel 110, piezoelectric power generation elements BE arranged on the piezoelectric element array film 10 in a matrix structure, a bending detection line BL connected to each piezoelectric power generation element BE, and a touch detection pad T-PAD connected to the touch line TL.to receive a touch detection signal transmitted from the touch line TL, a first readout circuit ROIC1 connected to the touch detection pad T-PAD to receive the touch detection signal and transmit the touch detection signal to a PCB1, the PCB1 being electrically connected to the first readout circuit ROIC1, a second readout circuit ROIC2 connected to the bend detection line BL to receive the bend detection signal transmitted from the bend detection line BL, and a PCB2 electrically connected to the second readout circuit ROIC2.

[0150] In Fig. 7A, the configurations of receiving the signal transmitted from the touch line TL and the bend detection line BL are individually provided one-to-one as the first readout circuit ROIC1 and the second readout circuit ROIC2.

[0151] Alternatively, the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may share a readout circuit ROIC as shown in Fig. 7B, and can receive the signal transmitted from each of the touch line TL and the bend detection line BL through a touch signal pad T-PAD.

[0152] In particular, with reference to Fig. 7B, a display device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a display panel 110 that displays an image, touch electrodes 15 arranged above the display panel 110, a touch line TL connected from the touch electrodes 15 to a readout circuit ROIC, a piezoelectric element array film 10 arranged below the display panel 110, piezoelectric power generation elements BE arranged in a matrix structure on the piezoelectric element array film 10, a bending detection line BL connected to each piezoelectric power generation element BE, a touch detection pad T-PAD commonly connected to the touch line TL and the bending detection line BL, a readout circuit ROIC, and a touch controller RP.A mounting jig 11 for fixing the piezoelectric element array film 10 shown under the piezoelectric element array film 10 is a component including a mounting jig such that a concave or convex portion is formed in at least a portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10, and may be a component used only during the process.

[0153] When the piezoelectric element array film 10 is pressed onto the wearable panel 110 and the touch pad T-PAD, at least a portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10 can be convexly bent by the piezoelectric element array film fixing jig 11 so that the touch pad T-PAD and the piezoelectric element array film 10 can come into contact with each other.

[0154] Here, the readout circuit ROIC is divided by the touch line TL and the bend detection line BL. To divide the readout circuit ROIC by the touch line TL and the bend detection line BL, the touch detection pad T-PAD can be arranged to be longer than Fig. 7A, whereby the lower array film 10 of piezoelectric elements is bonded or contacted.

[0155] In one embodiment, in the touch mode section, the touch line TL may be connected to the touch detection pad T-PAD and the bend detection line BL may not be connected to the touch detection pad T-PAD.

[0156] In the bending mode section, the bending detection line BL can be connected to the touch detection pad T-PAD and the touch line TL cannot be connected to the touch detection pad T-PAD.

[0157] In addition, as in Fig. 8, a switch SW may be provided between the touch line TL and the bend detection line BL so that the touch line TL or the bend detection line BL can be selectively connected to the touch signal pad T-PAD according to the driving mode.

[0158] The switch SW can electrically connect one of the touch line TL and the bending detection line BL to the touch signal pad T-PAD according to the driving mode (touch mode or bending mode).

[0159] Fig. 9 is an example plan view illustrating a degree of strain caused in an array film of piezoelectric elements when bending occurs in a display panel according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0160] With reference to Fig. 9, the degree of strain caused by bending can be detected for unit sections arranged in a matrix structure on the piezoelectric element array film 10 based on a change in physical quantity generated by the piezoelectric element.

[0161] Since the piezoelectric power generating element is composed of a capacitor, the change in physical quantity may be a change in capacitance, and the degree of stress caused by bending may also be a numerical value related to capacitance.

[0162] As in Fig. 9, when bending occurs at the display panel 110 in the row direction, pressure is generated at the display panel 110 by bending, and hence, the degree of stress caused by the pressure detected in the plurality of unit sections arranged in the row direction can be detected to be different according to the row.

[0163] The strain of the piezoelectric power generating element detected for each of the same rows of the unit sections may be transmitted to the readout circuit ROIC through the above-described bending detection line BL, and the bending detection signal BDS signal-processed by the readout circuit ROIC may be transmitted to the readout processor RP.

[0164] Consequently, the readout processor RP may execute a bending algorithm using the bending detection signal BDS, thereby determining whether a bend exists and / or determining a bending position.

[0165] The object for detecting the degree of stress changed by bending may be one for each same column, row, or unit section, but is not limited to this.

[0166] Fig. 10 is a 3D graph illustrating an example of curvature due to bending of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0167] With reference to Fig. 10, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the readout processor RP may display the bending of the display panel 110 in three dimensions according to the presence or absence of the bending and the bending position determined for each unit portion of the piezoelectric element array film 10.

[0168] Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a bending position of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. A detailed description of overlapping functions of the same components as those included in the display device 100 shown in Fig. 1 to 9 is omitted.

[0169] With reference to Fig.11, a method for detecting a bending position of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include detecting, by a readout processor, a touch signal generated in a display panel in a touch mode section based on an integrated contact point (S810), and detecting, by the readout processor, a bending signal generated in the display panel in a bending mode section based on the integrated contact point (S820).

[0170] Detecting the bending signal (S820) may include detecting, by coordinates, a capacitance change amount occurring in piezoelectric power generating elements provided for each unit portion of the array film of piezoelectric elements in a matrix structure and overlapping with the display panel, and detecting bending coordinates at which bending occurs based on the capacitance change amount detected by coordinates of the piezoelectric power generating elements.

[0171] Coordinates where the capacitance change amount is larger than a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range can be detected as bending coordinates using coordinates of the piezoelectric power generation elements.

[0172] The readout processor may then store a bending detection signal with bending coordinates at which bending is estimated to occur. The readout processor may then change a threshold signal level of a touch electrode located at a touch panel position corresponding to the bending coordinates in a next touch mode section based on the stored bending detection signal. Here, the threshold signal level of the touch electrode may be a capacitance value, which serves as a reference for the touch electrode to detect an externally applied stimulus as a touch electrode.

[0173] In other words, by changing the threshold signal level of the touch electrode corresponding to the bending coordinates where an occurrence of the bending is estimated in the display panel 110, the touch detection reference value affected by the bending can be changed.

[0174] Here, the touch mode section and the bending mode section can be set by time-dividing a blanking section of one frame period.

[0175] The above description has been provided to enable any person skilled in the art to carry out and use the technical idea of ​​the disclosure, and has been provided in the context of a specific application and its requirements. Various modifications, additions, and substitutions to the described embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. The above description and the accompanying drawings provide an example of the technical idea of ​​the disclosure for illustrative purposes only. That is, the disclosed embodiments are intended to illustrate the scope of the technical idea of ​​the disclosure. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] KR 10-2024-0025771

[0001]

Claims

[1] Display device comprising: a flexible display panel (110) for displaying an image; an array film (10) of piezoelectric elements overlapping with the display panel (110) and having piezoelectric power generating elements (BE) arranged in a matrix structure and serving to detect a capacitance change amount generated in the piezoelectric power generating elements (BE) according to a bending of the display panel (110); a readout circuit (ROIC) for receiving and processing a bending detection signal (BSS) containing the amount of capacitance change generated in the piezoelectric power generating elements (BE); and a readout processor (RP) which serves to detect, on the basis of the bending detection signal (BSS), whether a bending of the display panel (110) occurs and to detect a position at which the bending occurs. [2] A display device according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric element array film (10) comprises unit sections (20) divided into a matrix structure, each of the unit sections (20) overlapping with an area in which a plurality of sub-pixels (SP) are arranged. [3] A display device according to claim 2, wherein the unit portions (20) of the piezoelectric element array film (10) are arranged on the same line in a horizontal direction adjacent to each other and include a first unit portion (21) adjacent to a bezel region (BA), a third unit portion (23) adjacent to a central region, and a second unit portion (22) disposed between the first unit portion (21) and the third unit portion (23). [4] The display device according to claim 3, wherein the piezoelectric power generating element (BE) comprises a first capacitor (200) having a first surface electrode (204) provided in each of the first unit portion (21), the second unit portion (22) and the third unit portion (23), and a second surface electrode (202) spaced from and facing the first surface electrode (204) by a predetermined interval. [5] A display device according to claim 4, wherein areas in which the first capacitors (200) provided in the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22) and the third unit section (23), respectively, occupy a plane of each unit section (20) are equal. [6] A display device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, as the first capacitor (200) provided in each of the first unit portion (21), the second unit portion (22) and the third unit portion (23) approaches the bezel area (BA), an area in which the first capacitor (200) occupies a plane of each of the unit portions (20) decreases. [7] The display device according to claim 4, 5 or 6, wherein a first bending detection line BL(+) is connected one-to-one between the first surface electrode (204) and the readout circuit (ROIC), and a second bending detection line BL(-) is connected one-to-one between the second surface electrode (202) and the readout circuit (ROIC) in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22), and the third unit section (23). [8] The display device according to claim 4, 5 or 6, wherein a first bending detection line (BL4, BL5, BL6) is connected one-to-one to the first surface electrode (204) in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22) and the third unit section (23), and a plurality of first bending detection lines (BL4, BL5, BL6) connected to the first to third unit sections (21, 22, 23) are shared as a first integrated electrode line in the bezel area (BA) of the display panel (110). [9] The display device according to claim 4, 5 or 6, wherein a first bending detection line (BL4, BL5, BL6) is connected one-to-one to the first surface electrode (204) in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22) and the third unit section (23), and a plurality of second bending detection lines (BL1, BL2, BL3) connected to the first to third unit sections (21, 22, 23) are shared as a second integrated electrode line in the bezel area (BA) of the display panel (110). [10] A display device according to any one of the preceding claims 4-9, wherein the piezoelectric power generating element (BE) is a second capacitor (600) having a first comb electrode (604) provided in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22) and the third unit section (23), and a second comb electrode (602) having comb teeth arranged alternately with comb teeth of the first comb electrode (604). [11] The display device according to claim 9, wherein the second capacitor (600) provided in each of the first unit portion (21), the second unit portion (22) and the third unit portion (23) decreases in the vertical length of the first comb electrode (604) and the second comb electrode (602) as it approaches the bezel region. [12] The display device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein a third bending detection line (BL7, BL9, BL11) is connected one-to-one between the first comb electrode (604) provided in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22) and the third unit section (23) and the readout circuit (ROIC), and a fourth bending detection line (BL8, BL10, BL12) is connected one-to-one between the second comb electrode (602) and the readout circuit (ROIC). [13] The display device according to claim 2, wherein the readout processor (RP) is configured to compare the capacitance change amount detected for each unit section (21, 22, 23) with a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range, wherein preferably bending occurrence estimation ranges set for the first capacitors (200) having different areas occupying the plane for each unit section (21, 22, 23) are different from each other, and / or the bending occurrence estimation ranges set for the first capacitors (200) provided in each of the first unit section (21), the second unit section (22), and the third unit section (23) do not overlap with each other. [14] A method for detecting a bending position of a display device, the method comprising: Detecting (S810) a touch signal generated on a display panel (110) in a touch mode section based on an integrated contact point by a readout processor (RP); and Detecting (S820) a bend detection signal (BSS) generated at the display panel (110) in a bend mode section based on the integrated contact point by the readout processor (RP), wherein detecting the bending signal (BSS) comprises: Detecting, by means of coordinates, an amount of capacitance change occurring in piezoelectric power generating elements (BE) provided in a matrix structure and overlapping with the display panel (110); and Detecting a position at which bending occurs based on the capacitance change amount detected by coordinates of the piezoelectric power generating elements (BE). [15] The method according to claim 14, wherein detecting the position at which the bending occurs comprises detecting coordinates at which the capacitance change amount is larger than a predetermined bending occurrence estimation range as bending coordinates of the bending by means of coordinates of the piezoelectric power generating elements, and / or the touch mode portion and the bending mode portion are set by time-dividing a blanking portion of a frame period. [16] A method according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising: Storing a bend detection signal (BSS) with bend coordinates at which the occurrence of the bend is estimated by the readout processor (RP); and Changing a threshold signal level of a touch electrode (TE) arranged in a touch pad position corresponding to the bending coordinates in a next touch mode section based on the stored bending detection signal by the readout processor (RP).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • KOREANISCHENPATENTANMELDUNGNR.10-2024-0025771