Display device

Abstract

The display device may include a display panel, a first support plate disposed below the display panel, a first bracket disposed below the first support plate, a second bracket disposed below the first support plate and horizontally spaced from the first bracket, a first recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket adjacent to the second bracket, and a plurality of cushion layers disposed in a second recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the second bracket adjacent to the first bracket.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, a display device includes a display module for displaying an image and a support for supporting the display module. The display module includes a display panel for displaying an image, a window disposed on the display panel for protecting the display panel from external scratches and impacts, and a protective layer disposed under the display panel for protecting the display panel from external impacts. The support has a rigidity greater than that of the display module and supports the display module.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art Recently, with the advancement of display device technology, flexible display devices capable of being transformed into various shapes have been developed. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] A flexible display device includes a flexible display module that is folded or rolled. A support part disposed under the display module that is folded around a folding axis of the flexible display module has a structure that is folded together with the display module. There is a demand for a technology that allows the support part to be folded more easily.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device in which the display module can be more easily folded into a dumbbell shape. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a display panel, a first support plate arranged below the display panel, a first bracket arranged below the first support plate, a second bracket arranged below the first support plate and horizontally spaced apart from the first bracket, a first recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket adjacent to the second bracket, and a plurality of cushion layers disposed in a second recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the second bracket adjacent to the first bracket.

[0007] A display device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel, a first support plate arranged below the display panel, a first-second support plate arranged below the first support plate, a second-second support plate arranged below the first support plate and horizontally spaced apart from the first-second support plate, a first bracket arranged below the first-second support plate, a second bracket arranged below the second-second support plate, and a cushion layer arranged in a recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket adjacent to the second bracket, wherein an opening may be defined in a portion of the first-second support plate so as to overlap a boundary between the upper surface of the first bracket where the recess is not defined and the recess.

[0008] A display device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel, a first support plate arranged below the display panel, a second support plate arranged below the first support plate, a digitizer arranged below the second support plate, a first bracket arranged below the digitizer, a second bracket arranged below the digitizer and horizontally spaced from the first bracket, and a first recess defined on an upper surface of the first bracket and a second recess defined on an upper surface of the second bracket, and a plurality of cushion layers arranged in the first recess and the second recess. An opening is defined in a portion of the second support plate so as to overlap a boundary between the upper surface of the first bracket where the first recess is not defined, and a dummy recess is defined in the lower surface of the digitizer so as to overlap the opening. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first recess and a second recess overlapping the folding region may be defined in a first bracket and a second bracket disposed under a support, respectively, and a cushion layer spaced apart from each other may be disposed in each of the first and second recesses. When the display module is folded, the display module may be bent between the cushion layers and extended along the upper surfaces of the first and second brackets where the first and second recesses are not formed. Thus, the display module may be more easily folded into a dumbbell shape. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is a diagram showing a folded state of the display device shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the display device shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display module shown in FIG. [Figure 6]FIG. 4 is a plan view of the display panel shown in FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of a display panel corresponding to one pixel shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 9] 9 is a diagram showing a state in which the bending region shown in FIG. 8 is bent. [Figure 10] 7 is an enlarged plan view of a first transmissive region of the display panel shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 11] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 12] 12 is a plan view of a portion of the first support plate overlapping the curved surface portion shown in FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] 12 is a diagram showing the display device shown in FIG. 11 in a folded state. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the digitizer shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 20] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 21] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 22] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 23] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 25] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] As used herein, when a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being "on" or "coupled" to another component, it means that it may be directly disposed, coupled, or connected to the other component, or that a third component may be disposed therebetween.

[0012] The same reference numerals refer to the same components. Also, in the drawings, thicknesses, proportions and dimensions of the components are exaggerated for the purpose of effectively explaining the technical contents.

[0013] "And / or" includes all combinations of one or more of the associated construct.

[0014] Terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, but the components are not limited to the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, the first component may be named the second component without departing from the scope of the present invention, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. A singular surface includes a plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0015] In addition, terms such as "under", "below", "up" and "above" are used to describe the relationship between components shown in the drawings. The terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0016] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Furthermore, terms, such as terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning they have in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0017] It should be understood that terms such as "comprise" or "have" specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described above in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0018] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the display device shown in Fig. 1 in a folded state.

[0020] 1, the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a rectangular shape having a long side extending in a first direction DR1 and a short side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the display device DD may have various shapes such as a circle and a polygon. The display device DD may be a flexible display device.

[0021] Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as a third direction DR3. In addition, in this specification, "when viewed on a plane" can be defined as a state viewed from the third direction DR3 or a plan view toward the third direction DR3.

[0022] The display device DD may include a folding region FA and a plurality of non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2 adjacent to the folding region FA. The non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2 may include a first non-folding region NFA1 and a second non-folding region NFA2. The folding region FA may be disposed between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2. The folding region FA, the first non-folding region NFA1, and the second non-folding region NFA2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2.

[0023] In one embodiment, the display device DD may include one folding area FA and two non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 as shown in Fig. 1, but the number of folding areas FA and non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display device DD may include a plurality of non-folding areas, which are more than two, and a plurality of folding areas disposed between the non-folding areas.

[0024] The top surface of the display device DD is defined as a display surface DS, which may have a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. An image IM generated by the display device DD may be provided to a user through the display surface DS.

[0025] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, and the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and define the periphery of the display device DD, which may be printed in a predetermined color.

[0026] The display device DD may include at least one sensor SN and at least one camera CA. The sensor SN and the camera CA may be adjacent to the periphery of the display device DD. The sensor SN and the camera CA may be disposed in a display area DA adjacent to a non-display area NDA. In one embodiment, the sensor SN and the camera CA may be disposed in a second non-fold area NFA2, but are not limited thereto, the sensor SN and the camera CA may be disposed in a first non-fold area NFA1.

[0027] Light may be transmitted through the portion of the display device DD where the sensor SN and the camera CA are disposed, and provided to the sensor SN and the camera CA. In one embodiment, the sensor SN may be, for example, a near-illumination sensor, but the type of the sensor SN is not limited thereto. The camera CA may capture an image of the outside. A plurality of sensors SN and cameras CA may be provided.

[0028] 2, an embodiment of the display device DD may be a foldable display device DD that may or may not be folded. In one embodiment, for example, the folding area FA may be bent with respect to a folding axis FX parallel to the first direction DR1, so that the display device DD may be folded. The folding axis FX may be defined as a long axis parallel to the long side of the display device DD. However, the folding axis FX may be defined as a short axis parallel to the short side, and the display device DD may be folded around the folding axis FX parallel to the short side.

[0029] In a folded state, the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other, and the display device DD may be folded inward (in-folding) so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, for example, the display device DD may be folded outward (out-folding) so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside around the folding axis FX.

[0030] In one embodiment, the distance between the first non-fold area NFA1 and the second non-fold area NFA2 may be less than the diameter of a circle defined by the radius of curvature F of the folding area FA. In such an embodiment, the folding area FA may be folded in a dumbbell shape, and the distance between the first non-fold area NFA1 and the second non-fold area NFA2 may be closer the further away from the folding area FA.

[0031] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the display device shown in FIG.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 3, an embodiment of a display device DD may include a display module DM, a camera CA, a sensor SB, a bracket BRK, an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and a case CAS.

[0033] The display module DM may include a window WIN and a display panel DP. In one embodiment, for example, in FIG. 3, the window WIN and the display panel DP are shown in the stacked structure of the display module DM, but the display module DM may further include various other components in addition to the window WIN and the display panel DP. The detailed stacked structure of the display module DM will be described in detail below.

[0034] The window WIN may provide and define the front surface of the display device DD, and may transmit an image emitted from the display panel DP to provide the image to a user.

[0035] The display panel DP may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA corresponding to the display area DA (see FIG. 1) and the non-display area NDA (see FIG. 1) of the display device DD. Hereinafter, "corresponding areas / portions" means overlapping, and may not be limited to the same area.

[0036] A first transmissive region TA1 and a second transmissive region TA2 may be defined in the display panel DP. The first transmissive region TA1 and the second transmissive region TA2 may have a higher light transmittance than the surroundings. A camera CA may be disposed below the first transmissive region TA1 and overlap the first transmissive region TA1, and a sensor SN may be disposed below the second transmissive region TA2 and overlap the second transmissive region TA2. Light transmitted through the first and second transmissive regions TA1, TA2 may be provided to the camera CA and the sensor SN.

[0037] The display module DM may include a data driver DDV disposed on the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the non-display area NDA. However, without being limited thereto, the data driver DDV may be mounted on a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel DP.

[0038] The bracket BRK may be disposed under the display panel DP. The bracket BRK may include a first bracket BRK1 and a second bracket BRK2. The first bracket TA1 and the second bracket TA2 may extend in a first direction DR1 and be arranged in a second direction DR2. Although not shown, a support may be disposed between the bracket BRK and the display panel DP, and the bracket BRK may be connected to the support. This configuration will be described in detail later.

[0039] The electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM may be disposed under the first and second brackets BRK1 and BKR2. Although not shown, the electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM may be connected to each other via a separate flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may control the operation of the display module DM. The power supply module PSM may supply power to the electronic module EM.

[0040] The case CAS may accommodate the display module DM, the bracket BRK, the electronic module EM, and the power supply module PSM. The case CAS may include two cases, a first case CAS1 and a second case CAS2, for folding the display module DM. The first and second cases CAS1 and CAS2 may be extended in a first direction DR1 and arranged in a second direction DR2.

[0041] Although not shown, the display device DD further includes a hinge structure for rotating the first and second cases CAS1 and CAS2, and the first and second cases CAS1 and CAS2 are connected to each other by the hinge structure, and the first and second cases CAS1 and CAS2 can be folded by the hinge structure. The case CAS can protect the display module DM, the bracket BRK, the electronic module EM, and the power supply module PSM. The bracket BRK, the electronic module EM, the power supply module PSM, and the case CAS can be defined (specified) as a set of structures that configure the periphery of the display module DM.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the display device shown in FIG.

[0043] 4, an embodiment of the display device DD may include an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, a display module DM, and an electro-optical module ELM. The electronic module EM may include a control module 10, a wireless communication module 20, a video input module 30, an audio input module 40, an audio output module 50, a memory 60, and an external interface module 70. The modules of the electronic module EM may be mounted on a circuit board or electrically connected via a flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may be electrically connected to the power supply module PSM.

[0044] The control module 10 may control the overall operation of the display device DD. In one embodiment, for example, the control module 10 may activate or deactivate the display module DM in accordance with a user's input. The control module 10 may control the video input module 30, the audio input module 40, the audio output module 50, etc. in accordance with a user's input. The control module 10 may include at least one microprocessor.

[0045] The wireless communication module 20 may transmit / receive wireless signals to / from other terminals using a Bluetooth speaker or a Wi-Fi line. The wireless communication module 20 may transmit / receive audio signals using a general communication line. The wireless communication module 20 may include a transmitting circuit 22 that modulates and transmits a signal to be transmitted, and a receiving circuit 24 that demodulates a received signal.

[0046] The video input module 30 may process a video signal and convert it into video data that can be displayed on the display module DM. The audio input module 40 may receive an external audio signal via a microphone in a recording mode or a voice recognition mode and convert it into electrical audio data. The audio output module 50 may return audio data received from the wireless communication module 20 or audio data stored in the memory 60 and output it to the outside.

[0047] The external interface module 70 may act as an interface connected to an external charger, a wired / wireless data port, a card socket (eg, a memory card, a SIM / UIM card), and the like.

[0048] The power supply module PSM may provide power for the general operation of the display device DD. The power supply module PSM may include a conventional battery device.

[0049] The electro-optical module ELM may be an electronic component that outputs or receives an optical signal. The electro-optical module ELM may transmit or receive an optical signal through a part of the display module DM. In this embodiment, the electro-optical module EML may include a camera module CAM and a sensor module SNM. The camera module CAM may include the camera CA shown in FIG. 3. The sensor module SNM may include the sensor SN shown in FIG. 3.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display module shown in FIG.

[0051] FIG. 5 shows an example cross section of the display module DM as viewed from a first direction DR1.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 5, an embodiment of the display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. In this embodiment, the display panel DP may be an emissive display panel, but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, etc. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the display panel DP will be described in detail as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0053] The display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OLED, a thin-film encapsulation layer TFE, an input sensing unit ISP, and an anti-reflection layer RPL.

[0054] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA corresponding to an area of ​​the display panel DP and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed on the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include a flexible plastic material. In one embodiment, for example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI).

[0055] The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL. The circuit element layer DP-CL may include a transistor. The display element layer DP-OLED may include a light-emitting element coupled to the transistor.

[0056] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL so as to cover the display element layer DP-OLED. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may protect the light-emitting element from foreign substances such as moisture / oxygen and dust particles.

[0057] The input sensing unit ISP may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The input sensing unit ISP may include a plurality of sensors (not shown) for sensing an external input. The sensors may sense the external input in a capacitive manner. The input sensing unit ISP may be directly formed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE when manufacturing the display panel DP. However, without being limited thereto, the input sensing unit ISP may be manufactured as a separate display panel and attached to the thin film encapsulation layer TFE by an adhesive layer.

[0058] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be formed directly on the input sensing unit ISP when manufacturing the display panel DP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as an external light anti-reflection layer. The anti-reflection layer RPL may reduce the reflectance of external light incident from above the display device DD toward the display panel DP.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 6, an embodiment of a display device DD may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0061] The display panel DP may include a first region AA1, a second region AA2, and a curved region BA between the first region AA1 and the second region AA2. The curved region BA may extend in a first direction DR1, and the first region AA1, the curved region BA, and the second region AA2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2.

[0062] The first area AA1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA around the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. The display area DA is an area that displays an image, and the non-display area NDA may be an area that does not display an image. The second area AA2 and the bending area BA may be areas that do not display an image.

[0063] When viewed from the third direction DR3, the first area AA1 may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a second non-folding area NFA2, and a folding area FA between the first non-folding area NFA and the second non-folding area NFA2. The first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2, and the folding area FA may correspond to the first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2, and the folding area FA of the display device DD shown in Figure 1. The first and second transmissive areas TA1, TA2 may be defined in the display area DA and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0064] The first area AA1 can be folded by bending it with respect to the above-mentioned bending axis FX. In one embodiment, for example, the bending area FA of the first area AA1 can be bent with respect to the above-mentioned bending axis FX, thereby folding the display panel DP.

[0065] The display panel DP may include a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines SL1-SLm, a plurality of data lines DL1-DLn, a plurality of light emitting lines EL1-ELm, first and second control lines CSL1, CSL2, a power line PL, a plurality of connecting lines CNL, and a plurality of pads PD, where m and n may be natural numbers. The pixels PX may be disposed in a display area DA and connected to the scan lines SL1-SLm, the data lines DL1-DLn, and the light emitting lines EL1-ELm.

[0066] The scan driver SDV and the light emitting driver EDV may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. The scan driver SDV and the light emitting driver EDV may be disposed in adjacent non-display areas NDA on both sides of the first area AA1, which are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1. The data driver DDV may be disposed in the second area AA2. The data driver DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the second area AA2.

[0067] The scan lines SL1 to SLm may be extended in a first direction DR1 and connected to a scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn may be extended in a second direction DR2 and connected to a data driver DDV via a bending region BA. The data driver DDV may be connected to the pixels PX through the data lines DL1 to DLn. The data driver DDV may be defined as a driver. The light emitting lines EL1 to ELm may be extended in the first direction DR1 and connected to a light emitting driver EDV.

[0068] The power lines PL may be extended in the second direction DR2 and disposed in the non-display area NDA. In one embodiment, the power lines PL may be disposed between the display area DA and the emission driver EDV, but are not limited thereto, and the power lines PL may be disposed between the display area DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0069] The power supply line PL may be extended to the second area AA2 via the bending area BA. The power supply line PL may be extended toward the lower end of the second area AA2 when viewed on a plane. The power supply line PL may receive a driving voltage.

[0070] The connection lines CNL may be extended in a first direction DR1 and arranged in a second direction DR2. The connection lines CNL may be connected to the power lines PL and the pixels PX. A driving voltage may be applied to the pixels PX via the power lines PL and the connection lines CNL, which are connected to each other.

[0071] The first control line CSL1 may be connected to the scan driver SDV and may extend toward a lower end of the second area AA2 through the bending area BA. The second control line CSL2 may be connected to the emission driver EDV and may extend toward a lower end of the second area AA2 through the bending area BA. The data driver DDV may be disposed between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0072] When viewed from a plan view, the pad PD may be disposed adjacent to a lower end of the second area AA2. The data driver DDV, the power line PL, the first control line CSL1, and the control line CSL2 may be connected to the pad PD.

[0073] The data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to corresponding pads PD via a data driver DDV. In one embodiment, for example, the data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to a data driver DDV, and the data driver DDV may be connected to pads PD corresponding to the data lines DL1 to DLn, respectively.

[0074] Although not shown, a printed circuit board may be connected to the pad PD, and a timing controller and a voltage generator may be disposed on the printed circuit board. The timing controller may be manufactured as an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and the voltage generator may be connected to the pad PD via the printed circuit board.

[0075] The timing controller may control the operations of the scan driver SDV, the data driver DDV, and the light emission driver EDV. The timing controller may generate a scan control signal, a data control signal, and a light emission control signal in response to a control signal received from an external device. The voltage generator may generate a driving voltage.

[0076] The scan control signal may be provided to the scan driver SDV via a first control line CSL1. The light emitting control signal may be provided to the light emitting driver EDV via a second control line CSL2. The data control signal may be provided to the data driver DDV. The timing controller may receive an image signal from the outside, convert a data format of the image signal to match an interface specification with the data driver DDV, and provide the converted data format to the data driver DDV.

[0077] The scan driver SDV may generate a plurality of scan signals in response to a scan control signal. The scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX via the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX in sequence.

[0078] The data driver DDV may generate a plurality of data voltages corresponding to image signals in response to data control signals. The data voltages may be applied to the pixels PX via the data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emitting driver EDV may generate a plurality of scan signals in response to light emitting control signals. The light emitting signals may be applied to the pixels PX via the light emitting lines EL1 to ELm.

[0079] The pixel PX can be provided with a data voltage in response to a scan signal. The pixel PX can display an image by emitting light of a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to an emission signal. The emission time of the pixel PX can be controlled by the emission signal.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of a display panel corresponding to one pixel shown in FIG.

[0081] 7, in one embodiment, the pixel PX may include a transistor TR and a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED includes a first electrode AE ​​(or anode), a second electrode CE (or cathode), a hole control layer HCL, an electron control layer ECL, and an emitting layer EML.

[0082] The transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED may be disposed on a substrate SUB. Although a portion corresponding to the transistor TR is shown in FIG. 7, the pixel PX may substantially include a plurality of transistors for driving the light-emitting element OLED and at least one capacitor.

[0083] The display area DA may include a light emitting area LA corresponding to each of the pixels PX, and a non-light emitting area NLA around the light emitting area PX. The light emitting element OLED may be disposed in the non-light emitting area LA.

[0084] A buffer layer BFL is disposed on the substrate SUB, and the buffer layer BFL may be an inorganic layer. A semiconductor pattern may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or metal oxide.

[0085] The semiconductor pattern may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern may include a highly doped region and a lightly doped region. The highly doped region may be more conductive than the lightly doped region and may essentially serve as the source and drain electrodes of the transistor TR. The lightly doped region may essentially correspond to the active (or channel) of the transistor.

[0086] The source S, active A, and drain D of the transistor TR may be formed from and defined by a semiconductor pattern. A first insulating layer INS1 may be disposed on top of the semiconductor pattern. A gate G of the transistor TR may be disposed on top of the first insulating layer INS1. A second insulating layer INS2 may be disposed on top of the gate G. A third insulating layer INS3 may be disposed on top of the second insulating layer INS2.

[0087] The connecting electrode CNE may include a first connecting electrode CNE1 and a second connecting electrode CNE2 to connect the transistor TR and the light emitting element OLED. The first connecting electrode CNE1 is disposed on the third insulating layer INS3 and may be connected to the drain D through a first contact hole CH1 defined in the first and second insulating layers INS1 to INS3.

[0088] The fourth insulating layer INS4 may be disposed on the first connecting electrode CNE1. The fifth insulating layer INS5 may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer INS4. The second connecting electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer INS5. The second connecting electrode CNE2 may be connected to the first connecting electrode CNE1 through a second contact hole CH2 defined in the fourth and fifth insulating layers INS4 and INS5.

[0089] A sixth insulating layer INS6 may be disposed on the second connecting electrode CNE2. The buffer layer BFL to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be collectively defined as a circuit element layer DP-CL. The first insulating layer INS1 to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be inorganic layers or organic layers.

[0090] A first electrode AE ​​may be disposed on the sixth insulating layer INS6. The first electrode AE ​​may be connected to the second connecting electrode CNE2 through a third contact hole CH3 defined in the sixth insulating layer INS6. A pixel defining film PDL in which an opening PX_OP for exposing a predetermined portion of the first electrode AE ​​is defined may be disposed on the first electrode AE ​​and the sixth insulating layer INS6.

[0091] The hole control layer HCL may be disposed on the first electrode AE ​​and the pixel defining layer PDL. The hole control layer HCL may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0092] The light-emitting layer EML may be disposed on the hole control layer HCL. The light-emitting layer EML may be disposed in a region corresponding to the opening PX_OP. The light-emitting layer EML may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material. The light-emitting layer EML may generate one of red, green, and blue light.

[0093] The electron control layer ECL may be disposed on the light emitting layer EML and the hole control layer HCL. The electron control layer ECL may include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer. The hole control layer HCL and the electron control layer ECL may be disposed in common in the light emitting region LA and the non-light emitting region NLA.

[0094] The second electrode CE may be disposed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE may be disposed in common to the pixels PX. The portion where the light emitting element OLED is disposed may be defined as a display element layer DP_OLED.

[0095] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the second electrode CE to cover the pixel PX. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include a first encapsulation layer EN1 disposed on the second electrode CE, a second encapsulation layer EN2 disposed on the first encapsulation layer EN1, and a third encapsulation layer EN3 disposed on the second encapsulation layer EN2.

[0096] The first and third encapsulation layers EN1 and EN3 include inorganic insulating layers and can protect the pixels PX from moisture / oxygen. The second encapsulation layer EN2 includes an organic insulating layer and can protect the pixels PX from foreign matter such as dust particles.

[0097] A first voltage may be applied to the first electrode AE ​​through the transistor TR, and a second voltage having a level lower than the first voltage may be applied to the second electrode CE. Holes and electrons injected into the light-emitting layer EML are combined to form excitons, and the light-emitting element OLED may emit light as the excitons transition to a ground state.

[0098] The input sensing portion ISP may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The input sensing portion ISP may be directly manufactured on the top surface of the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0099] A base layer BSL may be disposed on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. The base layer BSL may include an inorganic insulating layer. At least one inorganic insulating layer may be provided as the base layer BSL on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0100] The input sensing unit ISP may include a second conductive pattern CTL2 disposed on the first conductive pattern CTL1. The first conductive pattern CTL1 may be disposed on the base layer BSL. An insulating layer TINS ​​may be disposed on the base layer BSL so as to cover the first conductive pattern CTL1. The insulating layer TINS ​​may include an inorganic insulating layer or an organic insulating layer. The second conductive pattern CTL2 may be disposed on the insulating layer TINS.

[0101] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 may overlap the non-light emitting areas NLA. Although not shown, the first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 may be disposed on the non-light emitting areas NLA between the light emitting areas LA and may have a mesh shape.

[0102] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 may form a sensor of the input sensing unit ISP described above. In one embodiment, for example, the mesh-like first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 may be separated from each other in a predetermined region to form the sensor. A part of the second conductive pattern CTL2 may be connected to the first conductive pattern CTL1.

[0103] An anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the second conductive pattern CTL2. The anti-reflection layer RPL may include a black matrix BM and a plurality of color filters CF. The black matrix BM may overlap the non-light-emitting area NLA, and the color filters CF may overlap the light-emitting area LA.

[0104] The black matrix BM may be disposed on the insulating layer TINS ​​to cover the second conductive pattern CTL2. The black matrix BM may have an opening B_OP defined therein, the opening B_OP overlapping the light emitting area LA and the opening PX_OP. The black matrix BM may absorb and block light. The width of the opening B_OP may be greater than the width of the opening PX_OP.

[0105] The color filters CF may be disposed on the insulating layer TINS ​​and the black matrix BS. The color filters CF may be disposed in the openings B_OP, respectively. A planarizing insulating layer PINS may be disposed on the color filters CF. The planarizing insulating layer PINS may provide a flat upper surface.

[0106] If the external light traveling toward the display panel DP is reflected by the display panel DP and further provided to an external user, the user may view the reflected external light as in a mirror. In one embodiment, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include, for example, a plurality of color filters CF having the same color as the pixels PX of the display panel DP to prevent reflection of the external light. The color filters CF may filter the external light to the same color as the pixels PX. In such an embodiment, the external light may not be visible to the user.

[0107] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a state in which the bending region shown in Fig. 8 is bent.

[0108] 8 and 9, an embodiment of the display module DM may include a panel protection layer PPL disposed under the display panel DP, and a printed circuit board PCB coupled to one side of the display panel DP.

[0109] The panel protection layer PPL may protect the lower part of the display panel DP. The panel protection layer PPL may include a flexible plastic material. In one embodiment, for example, the panel protection layer PPL may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0110] An adhesive layer AL may be disposed between the panel protective layer PPL and the display panel DP, and the panel protective layer PPL and the display panel DP may be bonded to each other by the adhesive layer AL.

[0111] The panel protection layer PPL and the adhesive layer AL may not be disposed under the bending region BA. The panel protection layer PPL and the adhesive layer AL may be disposed under the first area AA1 and the second area AA2 of the display panel DP. The data driver DDV may be disposed above the second area AA2 of the electronic panel DP.

[0112] The printed circuit board PCB may be connected to the second area AA2. The printed circuit board PCB may be connected to one side of the second area AA2. The above-mentioned timing controller may be disposed on the printed circuit board PCB.

[0113] 9, the bending area BA may be bent so that the second area AA2 is disposed below the first area AA1 in the bent state, and thus the data driver DDV and the printed circuit board PCB may be disposed below the first area AA1 and may not be visible from the outside.

[0114] FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view of the first transmissive region of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0115] In FIG. 10, for the convenience of explanation and illustration in the drawings, the planar configuration of the first transmission region TA1 is shown, but in such an embodiment, the planar configuration of the second transmission region TA2 may also be substantially the same as that of the first transmission region TA1.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, an example of a display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a border area BNA between the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2.

[0117] The second display area DA2 may overlap the first transmission area TA1. The second display area DA2 may be substantially defined by the first transmission area TA1 and may be defined as the same area as the first transmission area TA1. The first display area DA1 may surround the second display area DA2. The second display area DA2 may have a higher light transmittance than the first display area DA1.

[0118] The pixel PX may include a plurality of first pixels PX1, a plurality of second pixels PX2, and a plurality of dummy pixels DPX. The first pixels PX1 may be disposed in the first display area DA1. The second pixels PX2 may be disposed in the second display area DA2. The dummy pixels DPX may be disposed in the border area BNA.

[0119] In one embodiment, for example, the border area BNA adjacent to the first display area DA1 may have a roughly octagonal shape, but the shape of the border area BNA is not limited thereto.

[0120] The first pixels PX1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR in the first display area DA1. The second pixels PX2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR in the second display area DA2. However, the arrangement of the first and second pixels PX1 and PX2 is not limited thereto.

[0121] The dummy pixels DPX may be arranged to surround the second display area DA2 along the border area BNA. Each of the second pixels PX2 and the dummy pixels DPX may include a plurality of sub-pixels for displaying red, green, and blue colors. The first pixels PX1 and the sub-pixels may have substantially similar structures to each other.

[0122] The first display area DA1 may display an image using the first pixel PX1. The second display area DA2 may display an image using the second pixel PX2. The border area BNA may display an image using the dummy pixel DPX. Thus, a predetermined image is displayed in the display area DA by the light generated by the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the dummy pixel DPX.

[0123] The display panel DP may include a plurality of transmissive parts TRP disposed and defined in the second display area DA2. The transmissive parts TRP may not be disposed in the first display area DA1. The transmissive parts TRP may be disposed between the second pixels PX2. The transmissive parts TRP may be disposed between the dummy pixel DPX and the second pixel PX2 adjacent to the dummy pixel DPX.

[0124] In one embodiment, the transmissive part TRP may have a cross shape, but the shape of the transmissive part TRP is not limited thereto. The transmissive part TRP may be disposed around each of the second pixels PX2. The transmissive part TRP may be disposed in a first diagonal direction DDR1 and a second diagonal direction DDR2 with respect to each of the second pixels PX2.

[0125] The first diagonal direction DDR1 may be defined as a direction intersecting the first and second directions DR1 and DR2 on a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2. The second diagonal direction DDR2 may be defined as a direction intersecting the first diagonal direction DDR1 on a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2. In one embodiment, exemplarily, the first and second directions DR1 and DR2 may intersect perpendicularly with each other, and the first and second diagonal directions DDR1 and DDR2 may intersect perpendicularly with each other.

[0126] The pixels PX may not be formed in the transmissive part TRP, and therefore the transmissive part TRP may have a higher light transmittance than the first and second pixels PX1 and PX2 and the dummy pixel DPX.

[0127] The light (the optical signal described above) transmitted through the transmission part TRP may be provided to the camera CA disposed below the second display area DA2. That is, the light transmittance of the first transmission area TA1 is improved by the transmission part TRP, and the light may be provided to the camera CA through the first transmission area TA1. Thus, the second display area DA2 displays an image, and the light transmitted through the second display area DA2 may be additionally provided to the camera CA to capture an image.

[0128] Although not shown, the portion of the display panel DP overlapping the second transmissive area TA2 may have substantially the same configuration as the second display area DA2 shown in FIG.

[0129] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG.

[0130] For convenience of explanation, FIG. 11 shows the bracket BRK out of the set structure of the display device DD explained in FIG.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 11, an embodiment of the display device DD may include a display module DM, a support part SUP arranged below the display module DM, a bracket BRK arranged below the support part SUP, a plurality of cushion layers CUL arranged between the support part SUP and the bracket BRK, and a plurality of waterproof tapes WTP arranged between the support part SUP and the bracket BRK.

[0132] The display module DM may be a flexible display module. The support part SUP may be more rigid than the display module DM and may support the display module DM below the display module DM.

[0133] The display module DM may include a first non-folding area NFA1, a folding area FA, and a second non-folding area NFA2. The display module DD may be folded by folding the folding area FA about the above-mentioned folding axis FX.

[0134] The folding region FA may include a first reverse curvature portion ICV1, a second reverse curvature portion ICV2, and a curved surface portion CSP between the first reverse curvature portion ICV1 and the second reverse curvature portion ICV2. The first reverse curvature portion ICV1 may be disposed between the first non-folding region NFA1 and the curved surface portion SCP. The second reverse curvature portion ICV2 may be disposed between the second non-folding region NFA2 and the curved surface portion SCP.

[0135] When the folding region FA is folded, the curved surface portion CSP may be bent to have a predetermined curvature. The first reverse curvature portion ICV1 and the second reverse curvature portion ICV2 may be bent in the opposite direction to the curved surface portion CSP and symmetrically to each other. The folding state of the folding region FA will be described below with reference to FIG. 13.

[0136] The display module DM may include a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a hard coating layer HC, a display panel DP, an impact absorbing layer ISL, a panel protection layer PPL, a barrier layer BRL, and first to sixth adhesive layers AL1 to AL6. The configurations of the display panel DP and the panel protection layer PPL have been described in detail above in FIG. 8, and therefore will not be described here.

[0137] The shock absorbing layer ISL may be disposed on the display panel DP. The shock absorbing layer ISL may absorb an external shock applied from above the display device DD toward the display panel DP to protect the display panel DP. The shock absorbing layer ISL may be manufactured in the form of a stretched film.

[0138] The impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material. The flexible plastic material may be defined as a synthetic resin film. For example, the impact absorbing layer ISL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0139] The window WIN may be disposed on the shock absorbing layer ISL. The window WIN may protect the display panel DP from external scratches. In one embodiment, the window WIN may have optically transparent properties. The window WIN may include glass. However, without being limited thereto, the window WIN may include a synthetic resin film.

[0140] The window WIN may have a multi-layer structure or a single-layer structure. In one embodiment, for example, the window WIN may include a plurality of synthetic resin films bonded together with an adhesive, or may include a glass substrate and a synthetic resin film bonded together with an adhesive.

[0141] A window protection layer WP may be disposed on the window WIN. The window protection layer WP may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. A hard coating layer HC may be disposed on the upper surface of the window protection layer WP.

[0142] The printed layer PIT may be disposed on the lower surface of the window protection layer WP. The printed layer PIT may have a black color, but the color of the printed layer PIT is not limited thereto. The printed layer PIT may be adjacent to the periphery of the window protection layer WP.

[0143] The barrier layer BRL may be disposed under the panel protection layer PPL. The barrier layer BRL may increase resistance to compressive force due to external pressure. Thus, the barrier layer BRL may play a role in preventing deformation of the display panel DP. The barrier layer BRL may include a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0144] The barrier layer BRL may have a color that absorbs light. In one embodiment, for example, the barrier layer BRL may have a black color. In this case, when the display module DM is viewed from above, the components disposed under the barrier layer BRL may not be visible.

[0145] The first adhesive layer AL1 may be disposed between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The first adhesive layer AL1 may bond the window protection layer WP and the window WIN to each other. The first adhesive layer AL1 may cover the print layer PIT.

[0146] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed between the window WIN and the shock absorbing layer ISL. The second adhesive layer AL2 may bond the window WIN and the shock absorbing layer ISL to each other.

[0147] The third adhesive layer AL3 may be disposed between the impact absorbing layer ISL and the display panel DP, and the impact absorbing layer ISL and the display panel DP may be bonded to each other by the third adhesive layer AL3.

[0148] A fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be disposed between the display panel DP and the panel protective layer PPL. The display panel DP and the panel protective layer PPL may be bonded to each other by the fourth adhesive layer AL4. The fourth adhesive layer AL4 may correspond to the adhesive layer AL shown in FIG.

[0149] A fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be disposed between the panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL. The panel protective layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL may be bonded together by the fifth bonding layer AL5.

[0150] A sixth adhesive layer AL6 may be disposed between the barrier layer BRL and the support part SUB. The barrier layer BRL and the support part SUP may be bonded to each other by the sixth bonding layer AL6. The barrier layer BRL may be bonded to the first support plate PLT1 of the support part SUP by the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0151] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 may overlap the first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2, but may not overlap the curved surface portion CSP of the folding area FA, i.e., the sixth adhesive layer AL6 may not be disposed on the curved surface portion CSP.

[0152] The first to sixth adhesive layers AL1 to AL6 include transparent adhesives such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA), but the type of adhesive is not limited to these.

[0153] Hereinafter, "thickness" refers to a value or length measured in a third direction DR3, and "width" may refer to a value or length measured in a first direction DR1 or a second direction DR2, which are horizontal directions.

[0154] The thickness of the panel protection layer PPL may be smaller than the thickness of the window protection layer WP, and the thickness of the barrier layer BRL may be smaller than the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL. The thickness of the display panel DP may be smaller than the thickness of the barrier layer BRL and the same as the thickness of the window WIN. The thickness of the impact absorbing layer ISL may be smaller than the thickness of the display panel DP.

[0155] The thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 may be the same as the thickness of the barrier layer BRL, the thickness of each of the second adhesive layer AL2 and the third adhesive layer AL3 may be the same as the thickness of the panel protection layer PPL, and the thickness of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be the same as the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5.

[0156] The thickness of each of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 and the fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be less than the thickness of the display panel DP and greater than the thickness of the shock absorbing layer ISL. The thickness of the sixth insulating layer AL6 may be less than the thickness of the shock absorbing layer ISL. The thickness of the hard coating layer HC may be less than the thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL6.

[0157] The display panel DP, the shock absorbing layer ISL, the panel protection layer BRL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 may have the same width as each other. The window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1 may have the same width as each other. The barrier layer BRL and the sixth and sixth adhesive layers AL5 and AL6 may have the same width as each other.

[0158] The widths of the display panel DP, the impact absorbing layer ISL, the panel protection layer BRL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 may be greater than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The peripheries of the display panel DP, the impact absorbing layer ISL, the panel protection layer BRL, and the third and fourth adhesive layers AL3 and AL4 may be disposed outside the peripheries of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0159] The width of the window WIN and the second adhesive layer AL2 may be smaller than the width of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The width of the second adhesive layer AL2 may be smaller than the width of the window WIN. The periphery of the window WIN may be disposed inside the periphery of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The periphery of the second adhesive layer AL2 may be disposed inside the periphery of the window WIN.

[0160] The widths of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth and sixth adhesive layers AL5, AL6 may be smaller than the widths of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1. The peripheries of the barrier layer BRL and the fifth and sixth adhesive layers AL5, AL6 may be disposed inward from the peripheries of the window protection layer WP and the first adhesive layer AL1.

[0161] The support part SUP may include a first support plate PLT1, a second support plate PLT2, a cover layer COV, a digitizer DGT, a shielding layer SHL, and seventh and eighth adhesive layers AL7, AL8.

[0162] The first support plate PLT1 may be disposed below the display panel DP to support the display panel DP. The first support plate PLT1 may include a non-metallic material. In one embodiment, for example, the first support plate PLT1 may include a fiber reinforced composite material. The fiber reinforced composite material may be carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0163] The first support plate PLT1 may be lightweight by including a fiber reinforced composite material. In one embodiment, the first support plate PLT1 may have a modulus and strength similar to that of a metal support plate while being lighter than a metal support plate using a metal material by including a fiber reinforced composite material.

[0164] The first support plate PLT1 may include a fiber-reinforced composite material, which may allow easier shaping of the first support plate PLT1 compared to a metal support plate. In one embodiment, for example, the first support plate PLT1 including a fiber-reinforced composite material may be more easily shaped by a laser process or a microblast process.

[0165] A plurality of openings OP may be defined in a portion of the first support plate PLT1 that overlaps the bending area FA when viewed in a plan view (in the third direction DR3). When viewed in a plan view, the openings OP may overlap the curved portion CSP. The openings OP may be formed by removing and penetrating a portion of the first support plate PLT1 in the third direction DR3. The openings OP may be formed by a laser process or a microblasting process as described above.

[0166] In such an embodiment, the opening OP is defined in the portion of the first support plate PLT1 that overlaps the curved portion CSP, which can increase the flexibility of the portion of the first support plate PLT1 that overlaps the curved portion CSP. As a result, the first support plate PLT1 can be easily folded around the folding area FA.

[0167] The cover layer COV may be disposed below the first support plate PLT1. The cover layer COV may cover an opening OP defined in the first support plate PLT1 below the first support plate PLT1. When viewed on a plane, the cover layer COV may overlap the folding area FA and not overlap the first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2. The cover layer COV may contact the underside of the portion of the first support plate PLT1 in which the opening OP is formed.

[0168] The cover layer COV may have a lower elastic modulus than the first support plate PLT1. In one embodiment, for example, the cover layer COV may include thermoplastic polyurethane or rubber, but the material of the cover layer COV is not limited thereto. The cover layer COV may be manufactured in a sheet shape and attached (attached) to the first support plate PLT1.

[0169] The digitizer DGT may be disposed below the first support plate PLT1. The cover layer COV may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the digitizer DGT. The cover layer COV may be spaced apart from the upper surface of the digitizer DGT.

[0170] The digitizer DGT is a device that can input position information designated by a user on a display surface. The digitizer DGT can be realized in an electromagnetic manner (or an electromagnetic resonance manner). In one embodiment, for example, the digitizer DGT can include a digitizer sensor substrate (not shown) including a plurality of coils. However, the digitizer DGT is not limited thereto, and can be realized in an active electrostatic manner.

[0171] When a user moves a pen over the display device DD, the pen is embodied by an AC signal to induce an oscillating magnetic field, and the oscillating magnetic field can induce a signal in the coil. The position of the pen can be detected through the signal induced in the coil. The digitizer DGT can grasp the pen position by sensing the electromagnetic change caused by the approach of the pen.

[0172] If the first support plate PLT1 disposed on and adjacent to the digitizer DGT contains metal, the sensitivity of the digitizer DGT may be reduced by the metal. For example, if a signal transmitted on the display device DD is blocked due to signal interference by the metal support plate, the digitizer DGT may not operate normally. However, in the embodiment of the present invention, the first support plate PLT1 disposed on the digitizer DGT contains a non-metallic reinforced fiber composite material, so that the digitizer DGT can operate normally.

[0173] The digitizer DGT can be separated into two parts under the folding region FA. Although not shown, the parts of the digitizer DGT separated from each other can be connected to a digitizer driver (not shown) via a flexible circuit board.

[0174] A shielding layer SHL may be arranged below the digitizer DGT. The digitizer DGT may be arranged between the first support plate PLT1 and the shielding layer SHL. The shielding layer SHL may include a metal. In one embodiment, for example, the shielding layer SHL may include copper, but the metal material of the shielding layer SHL is not limited thereto. The shielding layer SHL may be separated into two below the folding region FA. The parts of the shielding layer SHL separated from each other may be respectively arranged below the parts of the digitizer DGT separated from each other.

[0175] The shielding layer SHL may shield electromagnetic waves that may be applied to the digitizer DGT under the display device DD. The shielding layer SHL may be defined as an electromagnetic shielding layer. The shielding layer SHL including a metal may act as a heat dissipation layer.

[0176] A second support plate PLT2 may be arranged below the shielding layer SHL. The shielding layer SHL and the digitizer DGT may be arranged between the first support plate PLT1 and the second support plate PLT2.

[0177] The second support plate PLT2 may include a metallic material such as stainless steel (e.g., SUS316), but the metallic material of the second support plate PLT2 is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the second support plate PLT2 may include a non-metallic material such as plastic.

[0178] The second support plate PLT2 may be separated into two at the folding region FA. When viewed from a plane, the second support plate PLT2 may include a first-2 support plate PLT_2 overlapping the first non-folding region NFA1 and a second support plate PLT2-2 overlapping the second non-folding region NFA2. The first-2 support plate PLT_2 and the second-2 support plate PLT2-2 may be spaced apart in a horizontal direction (e.g., a second direction DR2).

[0179] The first-2 support plate PLT2-1 may support the first non-bending area NFA1. The second-2 support plate PLT2-2 may support the second non-bending area NFA2. The first-2 support plate PLT_2 and the second-2 support plate PLT2-2 may extend below the bending area FA and be spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, the first-2 support plate PLT2-1 and the second-2 support plate PLT2-2 may extend below the curved surface portion CSP and be spaced apart from each other.

[0180] The first-2 support plate PLT_2 and the second support plate PLT2-2 may support a portion of the first support plate PLT1 where the opening is defined below the bending region FA. When pressure is applied to the first support plate PLT1 from above, the first-2 support plate PLT2-1 and the second-2 support plate PLT2-2 may prevent deformation of the portion of the first support plate PLT1 where the opening OP is defined. In one embodiment, the first and second support plates PLT2-1 and PLT2-2 may perform a heat dissipation function.

[0181] The seventh adhesive layer AL7 may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the digitizer DGT. The seventh adhesive layer AL7 may bond the first support plate PLT1 and the digitizer DGT to each other.

[0182] The seventh adhesive layer AL7 may have an opening at a portion overlapping the curved portion CSP so as not to be disposed below the curved portion CSP. The above-mentioned cover layer COV may be disposed in the opening of the seventh adhesive layer AL7.

[0183] The eighth adhesive layer AL8 may be disposed between the shielding SHL and the second support plate PLT2. The shielding layer SHL and the second support plate PLT2 may be bonded to each other by the eighth adhesive layer AL8. The eighth adhesive layers AL8 may be separated from each other under the folding region FA. The separated portions of the eighth adhesive layer AL8 may be disposed between the separated portions of the shielding layer SHL and the first-2 and second-2 support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2, respectively.

[0184] The width of the first support plate PLT1 may be substantially the same as the width of the display panel DP. The width of the digitizer DGT and the seventh adhesive layer AL7 may be smaller than the width of the first support plate PLT1. The peripheries of the digitizer DGT and the seventh adhesive layer AL7 may be disposed inwardly of the periphery of the first support plate PLT1.

[0185] The widths of the shielding layer SHL, the eighth adhesive layer AL8, and the second support plate PLT2 may be smaller than the width of the digitizer DGT. The peripheries of the shielding layer SHL, the eighth adhesive layer AL8, and the second support plate PLT2 may be disposed inside the periphery of the digitizer DGT.

[0186] The thickness of the first support plate PLT1 may be greater than the thickness of the digitizer DGT, which in turn may be greater than the thickness of the second support plate PLT2, which may be greater than the thicknesses of the seventh and eighth adhesive layers AL7, AL8, respectively.

[0187] The thickness of each of the seventh and eighth adhesive layers AL7, AL8 may be greater than the thickness of the shielding layer SHL, which may be greater than the thickness of the cover layer COV, which may be the same as the thickness of the sixth adhesive layer AL7.

[0188] The seventh and eighth adhesive layers AL7, AL8 may include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA), but the type of adhesive is not limited thereto.

[0189] A first hole H1 may be defined in a portion of the display module DM overlapping the first transmissive region TA1. The first hole H1 may be defined from the second support plate PLT2 to the front of the panel protective layer PPL. In one embodiment, for example, the first hole H1 may be integrally defined in the barrier layer BRL, the first support plate PLT1, the digitizer DGT, the shielding layer SHL, the second support plate PLT2, and the fifth to eighth adhesive layers AL5 to AL8. The first hole H1 may be defined in the second-second support plate PLT2-2.

[0190] In the portion overlapping the first transmission region TA1, the barrier layer BRL, the first support plate PLT1, the digitizer DGT, the shielding layer SHL, the second support plate PLT2, and the fifth to eighth adhesive layers AL5 to AL8 are removed, so that the light transmittance of the first transmission region TA1 can be improved.

[0191] Although not shown, a second hole is formed in the second transmission area TA2, and the second hole, like the first hole H1, can be defined from the second support plate PLT2 to the front of the panel protective layer PPL. The above-mentioned camera CA can be disposed in the first hole H1, and the above-mentioned sensor SN can be disposed in the second hole.

[0192] The bracket BRK, the cushion layer CUL, and the waterproof tape WTP may be disposed under the second support plate PLT2. The bracket BRK may include a first bracket BRK1 disposed under the first-second support plate PLT2-1 and a second bracket BRK2 disposed under the second-second support plate PLT2-2. The first bracket BRK1 and the second bracket BRK2 may be disposed respectively under portions of the digitizer DGT separated from each other. The first bracket BRK1 and the second bracket BRK2 may be spaced apart in a horizontal direction (e.g., a second direction DR2).

[0193] The first-second support plate PLT2-1 may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the first bracket BRK1. The second-second support plate PLT2-2 may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the second bracket BRK2. When viewed on a plane, the first bracket BRK1 may overlap the first non-bending region NFA1, and the second bracket BRK2 may overlap the second non-bending region NFA2.

[0194] A first recess GV1 may be defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket BRK1 facing the 1-2 support plate PLT2-1. A second recess GV2 may be defined in an upper surface of a portion of the second bracket BRK2 facing the 2-2 support plate PLT2-2.

[0195] The first recess GV1 may be defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket BRK1 adjacent to the second bracket BRK2. The first recess GV1 may be defined to extend from one side OS1 of the first bracket BRK1 facing the second bracket BRK2.

[0196] The second recess GV2 may be defined in an upper surface of a portion of the second bracket BRK2 adjacent to the first bracket BRK1. The second recess GV2 may be defined to extend from one side OS2 of the second bracket BRK2 facing the first bracket BRK1.

[0197] The cushion layer CUL may be disposed between the first and second support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2 and the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2. The cushion layer CU may be disposed in the first and second recesses GV1, GV2.

[0198] The cushion layer CU may absorb an external impact applied to the lower part of the display module DM. The cushion layer CUL may include a foam sheet having a predetermined elasticity. The cushion layer CUL may include expanded foam, sponge, polyurethane, or thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0199] The cushion layer CUL may include a plurality of first cushion layers CUL1 and a plurality of second cushion layers CUL2. The first cushion layer CUL1 may be disposed adjacent to one side OS1 of the first bracket BRK1 and one side OS2 of the second bracket BRK2, which face each other.

[0200] The boundary between the upper surface US1 of the first bracket BRK1 where the first recess GV1 is not defined and the first recess GV1 may be defined as a first boundary BA1. The boundary between the upper surface US2 of the second bracket BRK2 where the second recess GV2 is not defined and the second recess GV2 may be defined as a second boundary BA2. With respect to the third direction DR3, the height difference HT between each of the first and second recesses GV1, GV2 and each of the upper surfaces US1, US2 may be set to 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm. In one embodiment, for example, the height difference HT may be set to 0.35 mm.

[0201] The second cushion layer CUL2 may be spaced apart from the first cushion layer CUL1 and disposed adjacent to the first and second boundaries BA1, BA2. The second cushion layer CUL2 may be disposed so as to contact a first side surface SS1 of the first bracket BRK1 formed at the first boundary BA1 and a second side surface SS2 of the second bracket BRK2 formed at the second boundary BA2. In one embodiment, the first boundary BA1 may be defined as the first side surface SS1 of the first bracket BRK1, and the second boundary BA2 may be defined as the second side surface SS1 of the second bracket BRK2.

[0202] A first opening OP1 may be defined in a portion of the first-2 support plate PLT2-1 that overlaps the first boundary BA1 when viewed in a plan view. A second opening OP2 may be defined in a portion of the second-2 support plate PLT2-2 that overlaps the second boundary BA2 when viewed in a plan view. In one embodiment, the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 may also be defined in the eighth adhesive layer AL8.

[0203] When viewed in a plan view, the first opening OP1 may overlap the first reverse curvature portion ICV1, and the second opening OP2 may overlap the second reverse curvature portion ICV2. When viewed in a plan view, the first opening OP1 may overlap a portion of the first reverse curvature portion ICV1 adjacent to the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second opening OP2 may overlap a portion of the second reverse curvature portion ICV2 adjacent to the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0204] The first and second cushion layers CUL1, CUL2 may be attached to the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2, and not attached to the first-2 and second-2 support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2. However, this is not limiting, and as an alternative, the first and second cushion layers CUL1, CUL2 may not be attached to the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2, but may be attached to the first-2 and second-2 support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2.

[0205] The waterproof tape WTP may be disposed between the first-2 and second-2 support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2 and the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2. The waterproof tape WTP may be attached to the first-2 and second-2 support plates PLT2-1, PLT2-2 and the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK.

[0206] The waterproof tape WTP may be disposed adjacent to the peripheries of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2. The peripheries of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 may face the outside of the display device DD. In one embodiment, for example, the peripheries of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 may be disposed toward the outside of the display device DD, and the peripheries of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 may be defined as the sides of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 that do not face each other.

[0207] The lower portion of the waterproof tape WTP can be disposed in a recess RES defined in the upper surface of the first and second brackets BRK1 and BRK2 and inserted into the recess RES, so that the waterproof tape WTP can be more firmly fixed to the first and second brackets BRK1 and BRK2.

[0208] Although not shown, when the bending region RA shown in FIG. 9 is bent, the second region AA2 is positioned below the second support plate PLT2, and an additional waterproof tape WTP can be attached to the lower surface of the second region AA2.

[0209] FIG. 12 is a plan view of a portion of the first support plate that overlaps the curved surface portion shown in FIG.

[0210] 12, the openings may be arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The openings OP may extend longer in the first direction DR1 than in the second direction DR2. That is, the openings OP may extend in a direction parallel to the above-mentioned bending axis FX.

[0211] The opening OP may include a plurality of first sub-openings SOP1 arranged in a first direction DR1 and a plurality of second sub-openings SOP2 arranged in a second direction DR2 adjacent to the first sub-openings SOP1 in the first direction DR1. The first sub-openings SOP1 may be arranged to intersect with the second sub-openings SOP2.

[0212] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a folded state of the display device shown in FIG.

[0213] For ease of explanation, in FIG. 13, the hard coating layer HC to the cover layer COV are shown as a single layer, which will be referred to below as the first layer LY1, and in FIG. 13, the digitizer DGT to the second support plate PL2 are shown as a single layer, which will be referred to below as the second layer LY2.

[0214] 11 and 13, an embodiment of the display device DD can be folded inwardly about a folding axis FX. The folding area FA can be bent so that the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other. The display device DD can be changed from a flat first state shown in FIG. 11 to a folded second state shown in FIG. 13, or from the second state to the first state. Such folding operations can be performed repeatedly.

[0215] When the display device DD performs a folding operation, the opening OP defined in the first support plate PLT1 allows the portion of the first support plate PLT1 overlapping the folding region FA to be easily folded.

[0216] When the display device DD performs a bending operation, the curvature portion CSP may be bent to have a predetermined radius of curvature R around the bending axis FX. The first reverse curvature portion ICV1 may be bent in the opposite direction to the curved portion CSP. The second reverse curvature portion ICV2 may be bent in the opposite direction to the curved portion CSP. The first reverse curvature portion ICV1 and the second reverse curvature portion ICV2 may be bent symmetrically to each other.

[0217] According to one embodiment, the first layer LY1 may be folded into a dumbbell shape, as shown in Fig. 13. Thus, the distance between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be less than the diameter of a circle having a radius of curvature R.

[0218] The second layer LY2 may include a 1-2 layer LY2-1 and a 2-2 layer LY2-2 separated below the folding region FA. The 1-2 layer LY2-1 may be bent to bulge upward in the space between the first cushion layer CUL1 and the second cushion layer CUL2, which are disposed in the first recess GV1. The 1-2 layer LY2-1 may be bent to bulge downward on the first reverse curvature portion ICV1 adjacent to the first non-folding region NFA1.

[0219] The 1-2 layer LY2-1 can be bent to bulge upward more easily due to the space defined between the first cushion layer CUL1 and the second cushion layer CUL2 at the first recess GV1. Since the first opening OP1 can be defined in the 1-2 layer LY2-1, the 1-2 layer LY2-1 can be bent to bulge downward more easily on the first reverse curvature portion ICV1.

[0220] The 2-2 layer LY2-2 may be bent to bulge downward in the space between the first cushion layer CUL1 and the second cushion layer CUL2, which are disposed in the second recess GV2. The 2-2 layer LY2-2 may be bent to bulge upward under the second reverse curvature portion ICV2 adjacent to the second non-folded region NFA2.

[0221] The 2-2 layer LY2-2 can be bent to bulge downward more easily at the second recess GV2 due to the space defined between the first cushion layer CUL1 and the second cushion layer CUL2. Since the second opening OP2 can be defined in the 2-2 layer LY2-2, the 2-2 layer LY2-2 can be bent to bulge upward more easily on the second reverse curvature portion ICV2.

[0222] The 1-2 layer LY2-1 and the 2-2 layer LY2-2 may extend flat along the upper surfaces US1, US2 of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 on which the first and second recesses GV1, GV2 are not formed.

[0223] The second layer LY2 may guide the folding state of the first layer LY1. By bending the second layer LY2 to have the above-mentioned shape, the first layer LY1 may be more easily bent to have a dumbbell shape along the second layer LY2. If the first layer LY1 is folded into a dumbbell shape, the distance between the first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 may become smaller. Thus, in the embodiment of the present invention, the display module DM may be more easily folded into a dumbbell shape.

[0224] The radius of curvature R may be set to 1.5 mm. The distance GP between the first and second non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2 may be less than 2 mm. In one embodiment, for example, the distance GP between the first and second non-folding regions NFA1, NFA2 may be set to 1.5 mm.

[0225] A distance DT from a boundary between the curved portion CSP and the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2 to the tip of the first and second non-folded areas NFA1, NFA2 may be defined as a distance measured in the second direction DR2. The centers of the first and second openings OP1, OP2 may be located at a point P30 that is 30% of the distance DT from the boundary between the curved portion CSP and the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2.

[0226] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the digitizer shown in Fig. 14.

[0227] In particular, FIG. 14 is shown in a plan view corresponding to FIG.

[0228] Hereinafter, the configuration of the display device DD-1 shown in FIG. 14 will be described, focusing on the configuration different from that of the display device DD shown in FIG.

[0229] 14, the first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 may be defined in the second support plate PLT2 and the eighth adhesive layer AL8. The first opening OP1 and the second opening OP2 may be further defined in the shielding layer SHL.

[0230] A dummy recess DGV overlapping the first and second openings OP1, OP2 may be defined on the lower surface of the digitizer DGT. The first and second openings OP1, OP2 and the dummy recess DGV may allow the second layer LY2 to bend more easily at the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2.

[0231] Further referring to FIG. 15, the digitizer DGT may include a base layer BS, a first conductive pattern CTP1, a second conductive pattern CTP2, a first insulating layer IS1, a second insulating layer IS2, and a sub-shielding layer SSHL.

[0232] The first conductive pattern CTP1 may be disposed on the base layer BS, and the second conductive pattern CTP2 may be disposed below the base layer BS. The first insulating layer IS1 may be disposed on the base layer BS to cover the first conductive pattern CTP1, and the second insulating layer IS2 may be disposed below the base layer BS to cover the second conductive pattern CTP2.

[0233] The sub-shielding layer SSHL may be disposed under the second conductive pattern CTP2. The sub-shielding layer SSHL may be disposed on the lower surface of the second insulating layer IS1. The sub-shielding layer SSHL may include a metal material. The sub-shielding layer SSHL, like the shielding layer SHL, may shield electromagnetic waves that may be applied to the digitizer DGT under the display device DD. The dummy recess DGV shown in FIG. 14 may be defined on the lower surface of the sub-shielding layer SSHL in FIG. 15.

[0234] 14 and 15, since a portion of the sub-shield layer SSHL is removed, a structure for replacing the removed portion of the sub-shield layer SSHL may be required. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the display device DD-1 may further include a plurality of dummy shield layers DHL made of the same material as the sub-shield layer SSHL and performing the same function as the sub-shield layer SSHL.

[0235] The dummy shielding layer DHL may be disposed on the upper surfaces US1, US2 of the portions of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 adjacent to the first and second recesses GV1, GV2. The dummy shielding layer DHL may contact the side of the second cushion layer CUL2. The dummy shielding layer DHL may overlap the dummy recess DGV when viewed on a plane. The dummy shielding layer DHL may be omitted.

[0236] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0237] In particular, Fig. 16 is shown in a plan view corresponding to Fig. 11. Below, the configuration of the display device DD-2 shown in Fig. 16 will be described, focusing on the configuration different from that of the display device DD shown in Fig. 11.

[0238] 16, in one embodiment, the display device DD-2 may not include the digitizer DGT, the seventh adhesive layer AL7, and the shielding layer SHL shown in FIG.

[0239] In one embodiment, an eighth adhesive layer AL8 may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the second support plate PLT2. The first support plate PLT1 and the second support plate PLT2 may be attached to each other by the eighth adhesive layer AL8. The second support plate PLT2 may have first and second openings OP1, OP2 defined therein.

[0240] The eighth adhesive layer AL8 may have an opening in a portion overlapping the curved portion CSP so as not to be disposed under the curved portion CSP. The cover layer COV may be disposed in the opening of the eighth adhesive layer AL8.

[0241] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0242] In particular, Fig. 17 is shown in a plan view corresponding to Fig. 11. Below, the configuration of the display device DD-3 shown in Fig. 17 will be described, focusing on the configuration different from that of the display device DD shown in Fig. 11.

[0243] 17, in one embodiment, the display device DD-3 may not include the digitizer DGT, the shielding layer SHL, the second support plate PLT2, and the seventh and eighth adhesive layers AL7, AL8 shown in FIG.

[0244] The cushion layer CUL and the waterproof tape WTP may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the bracket BRK. The waterproof tape WTP may be attached to the lower surface of the first support plate PLT1. The cushion layer CUL may not be attached to the first support plate PLT1 and the cover layer COV.

[0245] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0246] In particular, Fig. 18 is shown in a plan view corresponding to Fig. 11. Below, the configuration of the display device DD-4 shown in Fig. 18 will be described, focusing on the configuration different from that of the display device DD shown in Fig. 11.

[0247] 18, in one embodiment, the display device DD-4 may further include a plurality of dummy layers DUL disposed on upper surfaces US1, US2 of portions of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 adjacent to the first and second recesses GV1, GV2. The dummy layers DUL may be disposed between the first support plate PLT1 and the brackets BRK. The dummy layers DUL may contact the side surfaces of the second cushion layer CUL2.

[0248] The dummy layer DUL may include various materials such as adhesive tape, plastic materials such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate, or metal. The dummy layer DUL may compensate for the gap between the first support plate PLT1 and the bracket BRK.

[0249] The dummy layer DUL and the waterproof tape WTP can maintain the space between the first support plate PLT1 and the bracket BRK flatter. In this embodiment, when the display module DM is folded as shown in FIG. 13, the first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 can be maintained flatter on the first support plate PLT1.

[0250] 19 to 23 are diagrams illustrating configurations of a first support frame according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0251] Hereinafter, configurations of the examples of the first support plates PLT1-1 to PLT1-5 shown in FIGS. 19 to 23 will be described, focusing on configurations different from the first support plate PLT1 shown in FIG.

[0252] 19 to 21, the embodiment of the first support plates PLT1-1 to PLT1-3 may be applied to the display devices DD-2 to DD-4 shown in FIGS. 16 to 18 that do not include a digitizer DGT. The embodiment of the first support plates PLT1-1 to PLT1-3 may include a metal material such as stainless steel. In one embodiment, for example, the embodiment of the first support plates PLT1-1 to PLT1-3 may include SUS304, but is not limited thereto and may include various metal materials.

[0253] 19, in one embodiment, a plurality of recesses GV-1 may be defined in the lower surface of the first support plate PLT1-1 that overlaps the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2. In such an embodiment, the recesses GV-1 may increase the flexibility of the first support plate PLT1-1 that overlaps the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2. Thus, the first support plate PLT1-1 that overlaps the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2 may bend more easily.

[0254] 20, in another embodiment, a plurality of recesses GV-2 may be defined in the lower surface of the first support plate PLT1-2 overlapping the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1 and ICV2. In such an embodiment, only one recess GV-2 may be defined in each of the lower surface of the first support plate PLT1-2 overlapping the first reverse curvature portion ICV1 and the lower surface of the first support plate PLT1-2 overlapping the second reverse curvature portion ICV2. Thus, the recess GV-2 may increase the flexibility of the portions of the first support plate PLT1-2 overlapping the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1 and ICV2.

[0255] 21, in another embodiment, a dummy opening DOP may be defined in a portion of the first support plate PLT1-3 overlapping the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2. In such an embodiment, the dummy opening DOP may increase flexibility of the portion of the first support plate PLT1-3 overlapping the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2.

[0256] 22 and 23, in another embodiment, each of the first support plates PLT1-4, PLT1-5 may include at least one metal layer MTL including a metal, and at least one plastic layer PTL including a plastic material and disposed on one surface of the at least one metal layer MTL. In such an embodiment, the thickness of the metal layer MTL is relatively small, and the plastic layer PTL having higher flexibility than the metal layer MTL is laminated together with the metal layer MTL, so that the flexibility of the first support plates PTL1-4, PLT1-5 may be increased.

[0257] 24 and 25 are diagrams showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0258] In particular, FIGS. 24 and 25 are shown in a plane corresponding to FIG.

[0259] Hereinafter, the configurations of the display devices DD-5 and DD-6 shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 will be described, focusing on the configurations different from the display device DD shown in FIG.

[0260] 24, in one embodiment, the display device DD-5 may include a plurality of protrusions PRT formed by protruding portions of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2. The protrusions PRT may protrude upward toward the second support plate PLT2 at portions of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 adjacent to the first and second recesses GV1, GV2. The protrusions PRT may perform the same function as the dummy layer DUL described above.

[0261] 25, in another embodiment, the cushion layer CUL may be disposed adjacent to one side OS1 of the first bracket BRK1 and one side OS2 of the second bracket BRK2. The cushion layer CUL may correspond to the first cushion layer CUL1 described above. The display device DD-6 may not include the second cushion layer CUL2 described above.

[0262] A protrusion PRT-1 protruding upward toward the second support plate PLT2 may be formed on the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 in portions of the first and second brackets BRK1, BRK2 adjacent to the first and second recesses GV1, GV2.

[0263] The side surfaces SS1', SS2' formed between the protrusion PRT-1 and the first and second recesses GV1, GV2 may have an inclined surface. The side surfaces SS1', SS2' may have a curved shape that gradually becomes lower as it approaches the cushion layer CUL. When the folding region FA is folded, the first and second reverse curvature portions ICV1, ICV2 can be bent more easily due to the side surfaces SS1', SS2' that are curved surfaces.

[0264] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can modify and change the present invention in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention described in the following claims. In addition, the disclosed embodiments of the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and all technical ideas within the scope of the following claims and equivalents thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0265] The present invention has a high industrial applicability because the display module can be more easily folded into a dumbbell shape, preventing deformation of the folding area and providing users with a folding display device with improved service life.

Claims

1. A display panel; A first support plate disposed under the display panel; a first bracket disposed below the first support plate; a second bracket disposed below the first support plate and horizontally spaced apart from the first bracket; a first recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the first bracket adjacent to the second bracket, and a plurality of cushion layers disposed in a second recess defined in an upper surface of a portion of the second bracket adjacent to the first bracket.

2. The cushion layer is a plurality of first cushion layers adjacent to one side of the first bracket and one side of the second bracket facing each other; 2. The display device of claim 1, further comprising: a first boundary between an upper surface of the first bracket where the first recess is not defined and the first recess; and a plurality of second cushion layers adjacent to a second boundary between an upper surface of the second bracket where the second recess is not defined and the second recess.

3. The display device according to claim 2 , wherein the second cushion layer contacts the side surfaces at the first and second boundaries, respectively.

4. a first-second support plate disposed between the first support plate and the first bracket; a second-second support plate disposed between the first support plate and the second bracket, The display device of claim 2, wherein a first opening is defined in a portion of the first-2 support plate so as to overlap the first boundary, and a second opening is defined in a portion of the second-2 support plate so as to overlap the second boundary.

5. The display panel includes: a first non-folding region overlapping the first-second support plate; a second non-folding region overlapping the second-second support plate; a bending region including a first reverse curvature portion, a second reverse curvature portion, and a curved surface portion between the first and second reverse curvature portions; 5. The display device of claim 4, wherein a plurality of openings are defined in a portion of the first support plate so as to overlap the curved surface portion, and the first and second openings overlap the first and second reverse curvature portions, respectively.

6. The folding region is folded based on a folding axis extending in a first direction, and the first and second non-folding regions and the folding region are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, When the curved surface portion is bent to fold the display panel, the first and second reverse curvature portions are bent symmetrically to each other in opposite directions to the curved surface portion, 6. The display device of claim 5, wherein a distance from a boundary between the curved portion and the first and second reverse curvature portions to an end of the first and second non-folded regions is defined as a distance measured in the second direction, and the centers of the first and second openings are spaced apart at a point that is 30% of the distance from the boundary to the end of the first and second non-folded portions.

7. The display device of claim 4, wherein the first and second cushion layers are disposed between the first-2 and second-2 support plates and the first and second brackets, and the first and second cushion layers are attached to the first and second brackets and not attached to the first-2 and second-2 support plates.

8. 5. The display device of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of waterproof tapes disposed between the first-2 and second-2 support plates and the first and second brackets, adjacent to peripheral edges of the first and second brackets that do not face each other.

9. The display device according to claim 8 , wherein a lower portion of the waterproof tape is disposed within a recess defined in a portion of an upper surface of the first and second brackets.

10. a shielding layer disposed between the first support plate and the first-2 and second-2 support plates; The display device of claim 4 , wherein the first and second openings are further defined in the shielding layer.

11. a digitizer disposed between the first support plate and the shielding layer; The display device of claim 10, wherein a plurality of dummy recesses are defined on a lower surface of the digitizer, the dummy recesses overlapping the first and second openings, respectively.

12. The digitizer includes: A base layer; a first conductive pattern disposed on the base layer; a second conductive pattern disposed below the base layer; a sub-shielding layer disposed under the second conductive pattern; The display device according to claim 11 , wherein the dummy recesses are defined in the sub-shielding layer.

13. The display device of claim 11 , further comprising a plurality of dummy shielding layers disposed on upper surfaces of portions of the first and second brackets adjacent to the first and second recesses and overlapping the dummy recesses.

14. The display device of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of dummy layers disposed on upper surfaces of portions of the first and second brackets adjacent to the first and second recesses.

15. The display device of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of protrusions protruding upward from portions of the first and second brackets adjacent to the first and second recesses.

16. The cushion layer is disposed adjacent to one side of the first bracket and one side of the second bracket facing each other, side surfaces of the first and second brackets disposed between the protrusion and the first and second recesses have inclined surfaces; The display device of claim 15 , wherein the side surfaces of the first and second brackets have a curved shape that gradually becomes lower as they approach the cushion layer.

17. the display panel includes a first non-folding region, a second non-folding region, and a folding region between the first and second non-folding regions; the bending region includes a first reverse curvature portion, a second reverse curvature portion, and a curved surface portion between the first and second reverse curvature portions; The display device of claim 1, wherein a plurality of openings are defined in a portion of the first support plate so as to overlap the curved surface portion, and a recess or a dummy opening is defined in a portion of the first support plate overlapping the first and second reverse curvature portions.

18. The first support plate is A metal layer; The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a plastic layer disposed on one side of the metal layer.

Images