Folding display device

Abstract

The display device includes a display module including a folding region folded around a folding axis parallel to a first direction, and first and second non-folding regions arranged on either side of the folding axis in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a first body arranged below the first non-folding region, a second body arranged below the second non-folding region, a central body arranged below the folding regions, and a plurality of support plates extending in the first direction, arranged in the second direction, and disposed between the central body and the folding regions and rotatably coupled to each other, wherein the length of the support plates in the second direction may be greater as the curvature of the folding regions is smaller.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to displays, and more particularly to folding displays. [Background technology]

[0002] Electronic devices that provide images to users, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart televisions, include display devices for displaying images. The display devices generate images and provide the images to users via display screens.

[0003] Various types of display devices have been developed, including flexible display devices that can be curved, folded, or rolled. Such display devices can be repeatedly operated without breaking. Flexible display devices can also be more easily carried around for a given size of display screen.

[0004] Among flexible display devices, a folding display device includes a display module that is folded with respect to a folding axis extending in one direction. The display module is folded or unfolded around the folding axis. The display module includes a folding region that is bent during the folding operation. A support structure is used that can easily support the folding region and allow it to be folded. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a display device that includes a support plate that can be easily folded together with a folding area to protect the folding area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display module includes a folding region folded around a folding axis extending in a first direction, and first and second non-folding regions arranged on either side of the folding axis in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a first body arranged below the first non-folding region, a second body arranged below the second non-folding region, a central body arranged below the folding regions, and a plurality of support plates extending in the first direction, arranged in the second direction, and disposed between the central body and the folding regions and rotatably coupled to each other, wherein the length of the support plates in the second direction may be greater as the curvature of the folding regions is smaller.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a display module including a folding region folded around a folding axis extending in a first direction, and first and second non-folding regions arranged on either side of the folding axis in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a first body arranged below the first non-folding region, a second body arranged below the second non-folding region, a central body arranged below the folding regions, and a plurality of support plates extending in the first direction, arranged in the second direction, and disposed between the central body and the folding regions and rotatably coupled to each other, wherein a distance between rotation axes defined on both sides of each of the support plates opposite to each other in the second direction and extending in the first direction may be greater as a curvature of the folding regions is smaller.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a display module including a folding region folded around a folding axis extending in a first direction, and first and second non-folding regions arranged on either side of the folding axis in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a first body arranged below the first non-folding region, a second body arranged below the second non-folding region, a central body arranged below the folding regions, and a plurality of support plates extending in the first direction, arranged in the second direction, and disposed between the central body and the folding regions and rotatably coupled to each other, wherein lengths of the support plates in the second direction may be different from each other. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a support plate rotatably coupled to each other may be disposed under the folding area to support the folding area. When the folding area is folded, the length of the support plate may be set to be different according to the curvature of the folding area, and the support plate may surround the lower surface of the folding area. Thus, the support plate may be easily folded together with the folding area to protect the folding area. [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] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of the display module illustrated in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example cross section of the display panel shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the display panel shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the display device shown in FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a more specific plan view of the display device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the folding set shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the folding set shown in FIG. [Figure 12a] 12 is a diagram showing a connection structure between adjacent support plates among the support plates shown in FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 12b] 12 is a diagram showing a connection structure between adjacent support plates among the support plates shown in FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] 12 is a side view of the support plate shown in FIG. 11 when viewed from a first direction. [Figure 14] 12 is an exploded perspective view of the first hinge shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 15] 15 is a front view of the first frame shown in FIG. 14, as viewed from a first direction. FIG. [Figure 16] 15 is a perspective view showing the inside of a second frame shown in FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the torque control unit shown in FIG. [Figure 18] 15 is a view showing a state in which the first hinge shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 14 is coupled to the first and second bodies. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration arranged in the first and second frames shown in FIG. 18. [Figure 20a] 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the first rotating cam and the first moving cam shown in FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 20b] 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the first rotating cam and the first moving cam shown in FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 21a] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the folding set shown in FIG. 10 in an unfolded state. [Figure 21b] FIG. 21b shows the folded state of the folding set shown in FIG. 21a. [Figure 22a] 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG. 18. [Figure 22b] FIG. 22b is a cross-sectional view for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in FIG. 22a. [Figure 22c] FIG. 22b is a cross-sectional view for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in FIG. 22a. [Figure 23a] 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. 18. [Figure 23b] FIG. 23b is a cross-sectional view for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in FIG. 23a. [Figure 23c] FIG. 23b is a cross-sectional view for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in FIG. 23a. [Figure 24] FIG. 23c is a close-up view of the folded display module shown in FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 23c is an enlarged view of the display module and support plate shown in FIG. [Figure 26a] FIG. 23C is an enlarged view of the first region A1 of FIG. [Figure 26b] FIG. 26b is an enlarged view of the reverse curvature portion shown in FIG. 26a in an unfolded state. 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] In the detailed description and the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Also, in the drawings, thicknesses, ratios, and dimensions of components may be understood to represent at least one embodiment of the present invention, but such features may be modified within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the thicknesses, ratios, and dimensions shown in the drawings.

[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 by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly the second component may be named the first component, without departing from the scope of the present invention. A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates 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] It should be understood that terms such as "comprise" or "have" specify the presence of any feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described hereinabove in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features, number, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0017] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 1, the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a substantially rectangular shape having a pair of long sides extending in a first direction DR1 and a pair of short sides extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, the shape is not limited thereto, and the display device DD may have various shapes such as a circular shape and a polygonal shape. The display device DD may be a flexible display device.

[0020] 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 from a plane" may be defined as a state viewed from the third direction DR3.

[0021] The display device DD may include a folding area FA and a plurality of non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2. The non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 may include a first non-folding area NFA1 and a second non-folding area NFA2. The folding area FA may be disposed between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2. The folding area FA, the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2.

[0022] Although one folding area FA and two non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 are illustrated by way of example, the number of folding areas FA and non-folding areas NFA1, NFA2 is not limited thereto. For example, the display device DD may include a plurality of non-folding areas, more than two, and a plurality of folding areas disposed between the non-folding areas.

[0023] 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 via the display surface DS.

[0024] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA at least partially surrounding 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 at least partially surround the display area DA and may define an edge of the display device DD that is printed in a predetermined color.

[0025] The display device DD may include at least one sensor SN and at least one camera CA. The sensor SN and camera CA may be adjacent to an edge of the display device DD. The sensor SN and camera CA may be disposed in a display area DA adjacent to a non-display area NDA. The sensor SN and camera CA may be disposed in a second non-folding area NFA2, but this is not necessarily so, and the sensor SN and camera CA may be disposed in a first non-folding area NFA1.

[0026] Light may be transmitted through a portion of the display device DD where the sensor SN and the camera CA are arranged, and provided to the sensor SN and the camera CA. For example, the sensor SN may be 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.

[0027] 2, the display device DD may be a foldable display device DD. For example, the folding region 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.

[0028] When folding the display device DD, 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. 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.

[0029] The distance between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be smaller than the radius of curvature R of the folding area FA. In such a case, the folding area FA may be folded in a dumbbell shape.

[0030] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the display device shown in FIG.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 3, the display device DD may include a display module DM, a camera CA, a sensor SN, an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and a folding set FST.

[0032] The display module DM may generate an image and sense an external input. The display module DM may include a display panel DP and a window WIN disposed on the display panel DP. The window WIN may protect the display module DM. The window WIN may transmit light generated from the display module DM to provide it to a user.

[0033] 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. In this specification, "corresponding areas / portions" means overlapping, and does not necessarily mean the same area.

[0034] The display module DP may be provided with a first hole area HA1 and a second hole area HA2. The first hole area HA1 and the second hole area HA2 may have a higher light transmittance than the surroundings. A camera CA may be disposed under the first hole area HA1, and a sensor SN may be disposed under the second hole area HA2. Light transmitted through the first and second hole areas HA1, HA2 may be provided to the camera CA and the sensor SN.

[0035] 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, this is not necessarily limited to this, and the data driver DDV may be mounted on a flexible circuit board connected to the display panel DP.

[0036] The folding set FST may be disposed below the display module DM. The folding set FST may accommodate the display module DM and allow the display module DM to be folded. Such a structure of the folding set FST will be described in detail below.

[0037] The electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM may be housed in a folding set FST. The electronic module EM may control the operation of the display device DD. The power supply module PSM may supply power to the electronic module EM.

[0038] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of the display module illustrated in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of the display panel illustrated in Fig. 4.

[0039] For illustrative purposes, FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are shown in cross section as viewed from a first direction DR1.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 4, the display device DD may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP, an anti-reflection layer RPL, a window WIN, a panel protective film PPF, and first and second adhesive layers AL1 and AL2.

[0041] The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. The display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present invention may be an emissive display panel, but is not 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, the display panel DP will be described as an organic light emitting display panel.

[0042] The input sensing unit ISP may be disposed on the display panel DP. The input sensing unit ISP may include a plurality of sensing units for sensing an external input in a capacitive manner. The input sensing unit ISP may be directly manufactured on the display panel DP when manufacturing the display device DD. However, this is not necessarily limited to this, and the input sensing unit ISP may be manufactured as a panel separate from the display panel DP and attached to the display panel DP by an adhesive layer.

[0043] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflection layer RPL may be directly manufactured on the input sensing unit ISP when manufacturing the display device DD. However, this is not necessarily limited thereto, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be manufactured as a separate display panel and attached to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer.

[0044] The anti-reflection layer RPL may be defined as an external light anti-reflection film, and may reduce the reflectance of external light incident from above the display device DD toward the display panel DP.

[0045] If external light traveling toward the display panel DP is reflected by the display panel DP and provided to an external user, the user may view the external light as if it were a mirror. To prevent this phenomenon, for example, the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a plurality of color filters that display the same color as the pixels of the display panel DP.

[0046] The color filter may filter the external light to the same color as the pixel. In such a case, the external light may not be visible to the user because it matches the hue of the pixel that reflects the light. However, this is not necessarily limited, and the anti-reflection layer RPL may include a polarizing film to reduce the reflectance of the external light. The polarizing film may include a retarder and / or a polarizer.

[0047] A window WIN may be disposed on the anti-reflection layer RPL. The window WIN may protect the display panel DP, the input sensing unit ISP, and the anti-reflection layer RPL from external scratches and impacts.

[0048] The panel protection film PPF may be disposed below the display panel DP. The panel protection film PPF may protect the lower part of the display panel DP. The panel protection film PPF may include a flexible plastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0049] The first adhesive layer AL1 is disposed between the display panel DP and the panel protective film PPF, and the first adhesive layer AL1 allows the display panel DP and the panel protective film PPF to be bonded to each other. The second adhesive layer AL2 is disposed between the window WIN and the anti-reflection layer RPL, and the second adhesive layer AL2 allows the window WIN and the anti-reflection layer RPL to be bonded to each other.

[0050] Referring to Figure 5, the display panel DP may include a substrate SUB, a circuit element layer DP-CL arranged on the substrate SUB, a display element layer DP-OLED arranged on the circuit element layer DP-CL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE arranged on the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0051] The substrate SUB may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA at least partially surrounding the display area DA. The substrate SUB may include glass or a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI). The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed above the display area DA.

[0052] A plurality of pixels may be disposed in the display element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED. Each pixel may include a transistor disposed in the circuit element layer DP-CL and a light emitting element disposed in the display element layer DP-OLED and connected to the transistor.

[0053] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may cover the display element layer DP-OLED and be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may protect the pixels from moisture, oxygen, and external foreign matter.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the display panel shown in FIG.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 6, a display device DD may include a display panel DP, a scan driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0056] 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 extends 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.

[0057] The first area AA1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA that at least partially surrounds the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. The display area DA may be 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 bent area BA may be areas that do not display an image.

[0058] The first area AA1 may include, as viewed in the first direction DR1, 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.

[0059] 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 are positive integers. The pixels PX may be arranged 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.

[0060] 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 adjacent to each other on both sides of the first area AA1 in the first direction DR1, and disposed in the non-display area NDA. 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.

[0061] The scan lines SL1 to SLm extend in a first direction DR1 and may be connected to the scan driver SDV. The data lines DL1 to DLn extend in a second direction DR2 and may be connected to the data driver DDV through a curved region BA. The light emitting lines EL1 to ELm extend in the first direction DR1 and may be connected to the light emitting driver EDV.

[0062] The power lines PL extend in the second direction DR2 and may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. The power lines PL may be disposed between the display area DA and the emission driver EDV, but are not limited thereto, and may be disposed between the display area DA and the scan driver SDV.

[0063] The power supply line PL may be extended to the second area AA2 through the bent area BA. The power supply line PL may extend toward the lower end of the second area AA2 when viewed from above. The power supply line PL may receive a driving voltage.

[0064] The connection lines CNL may extend in a first direction DR1 and be 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.

[0065] The first control line CSL1 may be connected to the scan driver SDV and extend through the bending region BA toward the bottom of the second region AA2. The second control line CSL2 may be connected to the emission driver EDV and extend through the bending region BA toward the bottom of the second region AA2. The data driver DDV may be disposed between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0066] In 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.

[0067] The data lines DL1 to DLn may be connected to corresponding pads PD via a data driver DDV. 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.

[0068] A printed circuit board may be connected to the pad PD. A timing controller and a voltage generator may be disposed on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and the voltage generator may be connected to the pad PD via the printed circuit board.

[0069] 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 the outside. The voltage generator may generate a driving voltage.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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 through the scan lines SL1 to SLm. The scan signals may be applied to the pixels PX in sequence.

[0072] The data driver DDV may generate a plurality of data voltages corresponding to image signals in response to a data control signal. 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 light emitting signals in response to a light emitting control signal. The light emitting signals may be applied to the pixels PX via the light emitting lines EL1 to ELm.

[0073] 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.

[0074] By bending the bending region BA, the second region AA2 may be disposed below the first region AA1, and therefore the data driver DDV may be disposed below the first region AA1 and may not be visible to the outside.

[0075] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the display device shown in FIG.

[0076] 7, the display device DD may include an electronic module EM, a power 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 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 may be mounted on a circuit board, electrically connected to each other, or electrically connected via a flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM may be electrically connected to the power module PSM.

[0077] The control module 10 may control the overall operation of the display device DD. For example, the control module 10 may activate or deactivate the display module DM in response to a user input. The control module 10 may control the video input module 30, the audio input module 40, the audio output module 50, etc. in response to a user input. The control module 10 may include at least one microprocessor.

[0078] The wireless communication module 20 may transmit / receive wireless signals to / from other terminals using a Bluetooth® or 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.

[0079] The video input module 30 may process a video signal and convert it into video data that can be displayed on the display device DD. The audio input module 40 may receive an external audio signal through a microphone in a recording mode or a voice recognition mode and convert it into electrical audio data. The audio output module 50 may convert audio data received from the wireless communication module 20 or audio data stored in the memory 60 and output it to the outside.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The power supply module PSM may provide the power required for the general operation of the display device DD. The power supply module PSM may include a conventional battery device.

[0082] The electronic 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 ELM 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.

[0083] Fig. 8 is a more specific plan view of the display device shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the display device shown in Fig. 8. Fig. 10 is a plan view of the folding set shown in Fig. 9.

[0084] 8 and 9, the display device DD may include a display module DM, a bezel cover BZC that at least partially surrounds the display module DM, and a folding set FST that is disposed below the display module DM and the bezel cover BZC.

[0085] The bezel cover BZC may be disposed to at least partially surround the first and second non-folding areas NFA1, NF2 of the display module DM. The bezel cover BZC may have a black color, but the color of the bezel cover BZC is not limited thereto. The non-display area NDA of the display device DD shown in FIG. 1 may include the bezel cover BZC.

[0086] The folding set FST may support the display module DM and the bezel cover BZC. The folding set FST may be folded around a biaxial folding axis that is parallel to the first direction DR1 and overlaps the folding area FA when viewed from above, to fold the display module DM. This configuration will be described in detail later.

[0087] The display module DM and the bezel cover BZC may be attached to the folding set FST by adhesive.

[0088] 9 and 10, the folding set FST may include a first body BD1, a second body BD2, a hinge module HGM, and a plurality of support plates SPT.

[0089] The first body BD1 and the second body BD2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2. The first body BD1 and the second body BD may have a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1, DR2. The first body BD1 and the second body BD2 may have shapes symmetrical to each other in the second direction DR2. The above-mentioned electronic module EM may be disposed in the first body BD1, and the above-mentioned power supply module PSM may be disposed in the second body BD2.

[0090] The first body BD1 may be disposed below the first non-folding area NFA1 and may support the first non-folding area NFA1. The second body BD2 may be disposed below the second non-folding area NFA2 and may support the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0091] The support plate SPT may extend in a first direction DR1 and be arranged in a second direction DR2. The support plate SPT may be disposed below the folding area FA to support the folding area FA. The support plate SPT may be disposed between the first body BD1 and the second body BD2 to be connected to the first body BD1 and the second body BD2.

[0092] The hinge module HGM may be disposed between the first body BD1 and the second body BD2 under the support frame SPT. The hinge module HGM may be coupled to both sides of the first body BD1 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1 and to both sides of the second body BD2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1. This configuration will be described in detail later. The hinge module HGM may provide the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 with two rotation axes RX1 and RX2.

[0093] The two-axis rotation axis RX1, RX2 may extend in a first direction DR1. The two-axis rotation axis RX1, RX2 may include a first rotation axis RX1 and a second rotation axis RX2 extending in the first direction DR1 and spaced apart in a second direction DR2.

[0094] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the folding set shown in FIG.

[0095] 11, an upper surface of the first body BD1 adjacent to one side OS1 of the first body BD1 may have a first inclined surface SLP1. The height of the first inclined surface SLP1 may decrease toward the one side OS1 of the first body BD1. The first inclined surface SLP1 may have a step with the upper surface of the first body BD1 adjacent to the first inclined surface SLP1.

[0096] An upper surface of the second body BD2 adjacent to one side OS2 of the second body BD2 may have a second inclined surface SLP2. The one side OS2 of the second body BD2 may face one side OS1 of the first body BD1. The height of the second inclined surface SLP2 may decrease toward the one side OS2 of the second body BD2. The second inclined surface SLP2 may have a step with the upper surface of the second body BD2 around the second inclined surface SLP2.

[0097] For example, some of the support plates SPT are illustrated connected to the first body BD1, and other support plates SPT are illustrated connected to the second body BD2. The support plates SPT may include a first support plate SPT1 adjacent to the first body BD1 and a first support plate SPT1' adjacent to the second body BS2. The first support plates SPT1, SPT1' may be rotatably coupled to the first and second bodies BD1, BD2, respectively.

[0098] The first support plate SPT1 may be disposed on the first body BD1 and coupled to the first body BD1. The first support plate SPT1 may be disposed on the first inclined surface SLP1. The first support plate SPT1 may be coupled to rotate on the upper side of the first inclined surface SLP1 that is furthest from one side OS1 of the first body BD1.

[0099] The upper side of the first inclined surface SLP1 may be defined as a first boundary BA1 between the first inclined surface SLP1 and an upper surface of the first body BD1 adjacent to the first inclined surface SLP1. The first surface of rotation RTS1 may have a concave shape at the first boundary BA1. The first surface of rotation RTS1 may be arranged in a first direction DR1 along the upper side of the first inclined surface SLP1.

[0100] The first support plate SPT1 may include a plurality of first coupling parts CUP1 protruding from one side of the first support plate SPT1 facing the first body BD1 toward the first body BD1. The first coupling parts CUP1 may be arranged in a first direction DR1. The first coupling parts CUP1 may be disposed on a first rotation plane RTS1.

[0101] The first coupling part CUP1 is coupled to the first rotation plane RTS1 and can rotate about a rotation axis extending in the first direction DR1. The first support plate SPT1 can be rotatably coupled to the first body BD1 by the first coupling part CUP1.

[0102] The first support plate SPT1' may be disposed on the second body BD2 and coupled to the second body BD2. The first support plate SPT1' may be disposed on the second inclined surface SLP2. The first support plate SPT1' may be coupled to rotate on the upper side of the second inclined surface SLP2 that is furthest from one side OS2 of the second body BD2.

[0103] The upper side of the second inclined surface SLP2 may be defined as a second boundary BS2 between the second inclined surface SLP2 and the upper surface of the second body BD2 adjacent to the second inclined surface SLP2. The second surface of rotation RTS2 may be a second boundary BA2 and may have a concave shape. The second surface of rotation RTS2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 along the upper side of the second inclined surface SLP2.

[0104] The first support plate SPT1' may include a plurality of second coupling parts CUP2 protruding from one side of the first support plate SPT1' facing the second body BD2. The second coupling parts CUP2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The second coupling parts CUP2 may be disposed on the second rotation plane RTS2.

[0105] The second coupling part CUP is coupled to the second plane of rotation RTS2 and can rotate about a rotation axis extending in the first direction DR1. The first support plate SPT1' can be rotatably coupled to the second body BD2 by the second coupling part CUP2.

[0106] The hinge module HGM may include a first hinge HIG1, a second hinge HIG2, a central frame CFM, and a hinge cover HGC. The first hinge HIG1 and the second hinge HIG2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1. The first hinge HIG1 and the second hinge HIG2 may have shapes symmetrical to each other in the first direction DR1. The first hinge HIG1 and the second hinge HIG2 may be connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 to provide the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 with first and second rotation axes RX1 and RX2.

[0107] The first hinge HIG1 may be disposed between the first body BD1 and the second body BD2. The first hinge HIG1 may be connected to one side of the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0108] The second hinge HIG2 may be disposed between the first body BD1 and the second body BD2. The second hinge HIG2 may be connected to the other side of the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 among the two sides of the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0109] A plurality of first holes H1 may be defined in the first hinge HIG1 and the second hinge HIG2. A plurality of first fastening grooves CG1 may be defined in the first body BD1 and the second body BD2. A plurality of screws may be inserted into the first fastening grooves CG1 through the first holes H1 to connect the first and second hinges HIG1 and HIG2 to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2.

[0110] The central frame CFM extends in a first direction DR1 and may be disposed between the first hinge HIG1 and the second hinge HIG2. The central frame CFM may be disposed between the first body BD1 and the second body BD2. The central frame CFM may be disposed between the first support plate SPT1 and the first support plate SPT1′.

[0111] The hinge cover HGC may be disposed below the first hinge HIG1, the second hinge HIG2, and the central frame CFM. The first hinge HIG1, the second hinge HIG2, and the central frame CFM may be coupled to the hinge cover HGC.

[0112] For example, a plurality of second holes H2 may be defined in the first hinge HIG1, the second hinge HIG2, and the central frame CFM. A plurality of second fastening grooves CG2 may be defined in the hinge cover HGC. A plurality of screws may be inserted through the second grooves H2 into the second fastening grooves CG2 to connect the first hinge HIG1, the second hinge HIG2, and the central frame CFM to the hinge cover HGC.

[0113] A first groove GV1 may be defined on an upper portion of both sides of the central frame CFM that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The first groove GV1 may extend in the first direction DR1. When the hinge module HGM is connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2, one side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1′ that face each other may be disposed in the first groove GV1, respectively.

[0114] 12a and 12b are diagrams showing a connection structure between adjacent support plates among those shown in FIG.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 12a, the h-th support plate SPTh and the (h+1)-th support plate SPTh+1 may be disposed adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 and rotatably coupled to each other.

[0116] A groove G may be defined on one side OSS1 of the h-th support plate SPTh facing the h+1-th support plate SPTh+1. The groove G may be defined on both sides of the h-th support plate SPTh opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0117] A first connection hole CH1 extending in a first direction DR1 may be defined in a portion of the one side OSS1 disposed between the grooves G. The first connection hole CH1 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1.

[0118] The (h+1)th support plate SPTh+1 may include a protrusion portion PTP protruding from one side OSS2 of the (h+1)th support plate SPTh+1 facing the hth support plate SPTh. The protrusion portions PTP may be spaced apart in a first direction DR1. A second connection hole CH2 extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined in the protrusion portion PTP. The second connection hole CH2 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1.

[0119] The protrusions PTP may be disposed in the grooves G. The pin units PIU may be inserted into the first and second connection holes CH1 and CH2, and the fastening units CTU may be coupled to the ends of the pin units PIU. With this structure, the h-th support plate SPTh and the (h+1)-th support plate SPTh+1 may be rotatably coupled to each other.

[0120] The connection relationship between two support plates SPTh and SPTh+1 is shown by way of example. The support plates SPT can be rotatably connected to each other in the structure shown in FIG.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 12b, the pin unit PIU and the fastening unit CTU shown in FIG. 12a may not be used, and the h-th support plate SPTh and the (h+1)-th support plate SPTh+1 may be rotatably coupled to each other.

[0122] The h-th support plate SPTh may include a protrusion portion PTP' protruding from one side OSS1' of the h-th support plate SPTh. The protrusion portions PTP' may be disposed on both sides of the h-th support plate SPTh that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1. A third connection hole CH3 extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined in the protrusion portion PTP'. The third connection hole CH3 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1.

[0123] A groove G' may be defined on one side OSS2' of the (h+1)th support plate SPTh+1. The groove G' may be defined on both sides of the (h+1)th support plate SPTh+1 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0124] A coupling pin CPN may protrude from both ends of one side OSS2' disposed between the grooves G'. The coupling pin CPN may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DR1. By inserting the coupling pin CPN into the third connecting hole CH2, the h-th support plate SPTh and the (h+1)-th support plate SPTh+1 may be rotatably coupled to each other.

[0125] In the following, the support plate SPT will be described with the structure shown in FIG. 12a.

[0126] FIG. 13 is a side view of the support plate shown in FIG. 11 when viewed from a first direction.

[0127] By way of example, the support plate SPT shown in FIG. 13 is shown coupled with the pin unit PIU shown in FIG. 12a.

[0128] 13, the support plates SPT may be arranged in a second direction DR2 and rotatably coupled to each other by the pin units PIU. A rotation axis PRX may be defined on both sides of each of the support plates SPT that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The rotation axis PRX may be defined at a center point of the pin unit PIU. The support plates SPT may rotate around the rotation axis PRX.

[0129] The support plate SPT may include a first support plate SPT1, SPT1' arranged on the left and rightmost sides, a second support plate SLP2 arranged in the center, a third support plate SPT3 arranged between the second support plate SPT2 and the first support plate SPT1, SPT1', and a fourth support plate SPT4 arranged between the third support plate SPT3 and the first support plate SPT1, SPT1'.

[0130] The second support plate SPT2, the first support plate SPT1 disposed on the left side of the second support plate SPT2, the third support plate SPT3, and the fourth support plate SPT4 may have different lengths in the second direction DR2. Also, the second support plate SPT2, the first support plate SPT1' disposed on the right side of the second support plate SPT2, the third support plate SPT3, and the fourth support plate SPT4 may have different lengths in the second direction DR2. The reason for this will be described in detail below.

[0131] For example, the first, third, and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT3, and SPT4 disposed on the left side of the second support plate SPT2 and the first, third, and fourth plates SPT1', SPT3, and SPT4 disposed on the right side of the second support plate SPT2 may be symmetrical to each other. Thus, the lengths of the first, third, and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT3, and SPT4 disposed on the left side of the second support plate SPT2 may be the same as the lengths of the first, third, and fourth plates SPT1', SPT3, and SPT4 disposed on the right side of the second support plate SPT2.

[0132] However, this is not necessarily limited thereto, and the first, third, and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT3, SPT4 disposed on the left side of the second support plate SPT2 and the first, third, and fourth plates SPT1', SPT3, SPT4 disposed on the right side of the second support plate SPT2 may not be symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the lengths of the first, third, and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT3, SPT4 disposed on the left side of the second support plate SPT2 may be different from the lengths of the first, third, and fourth plates SPT1', SPT3, SPT4 disposed on the right side of the second support plate SPT2.

[0133] Hereinafter, the first, third, and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT3, and SPT4 arranged on the left side of the second support plate SPT2, and the first, third, and fourth plates SPT1', SPT3, and SPT4 arranged on the right side of the second support plate SPT2 will be described as having a symmetrical structure.

[0134] Each of the first support plates SPT1, SPT1' may have a first length L1 in the second direction DR2. The second support plate SPT2 may have a second length L2 in the second direction DR2 that is smaller than the first length L1. Each of the third support plates SPT3 may have a third length L3 in the second direction DR2 that is smaller than the second length L2. Each of the fourth support plates SPT4 may have a fourth length L4 in the second direction DR2 that is smaller than the third length L3.

[0135] Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the first hinge shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 15 is a front view of the first frame shown in Fig. 14 when the first frame is seen from a first direction. Fig. 16 is a see-through perspective view of the inside of the second frame shown in Fig. 14.

[0136] Since the second hinge HIG2 has the same configuration as the first hinge HIG1, the configuration of the first hinge HIG1 will be described in detail below, and a description of the configuration of the second hinge HIG2 will be omitted, but the structure may be similar to the corresponding structure described in this specification. For illustrative purposes, a part of the central frame CFM is shown in FIG. 14.

[0137] 11 and 14, the first hinge HIG1 may include a plurality of bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2, a plurality of rotation pin units RPN1, RPN2, a plurality of bracket cams BCM1, BCM2, a first frame FM1, a plurality of gears GR1, GR2, a plurality of cams CAM1, CAM2, a plurality of springs SPR1, SPR2, a second frame FM2, and a plurality of ring units RG. Some of the gears GR1, GR2, the gears GR1, the cams CAM1, CAM2, and the springs SPR1, SPR2 may be defined as a torque control unit TQC.

[0138] The bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 may be connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 and the rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2. The rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 via the bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2.

[0139] The bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 may include a first bracket body BBD1 connected to the first body BD1 and a second bracket body BBD2 connected to the second body BD2. The first bracket body BBD1 and the second bracket body BBD2 may be arranged in a second direction DR2 and may have shapes symmetrical to each other in the second direction. A first hole H1 may be defined in the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2.

[0140] The rotating pin units RPN1, RPN2 may include a first rotating pin unit RPN1 coupled to the first bracket body BBD1 and a second rotating pin unit RPN2 coupled to the second bracket body BBD2. The first rotating pin unit RPN1 and the second rotating pin unit RPN2 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2 and extend in the first direction DR1. The first rotating pin unit RPN1 and the second rotating pin unit RPN2 may define a first rotation axis RX1 and a second rotation axis RX2, respectively.

[0141] The first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be connected to one side of the first bracket body BBD1 and one side of the second bracket body BBD2 facing each other in the second direction DR2, respectively. The first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be manufactured separately and connected to the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2. However, this is not necessarily limited thereto, and the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be formed integrally with the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 and extend from the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2.

[0142] The first frame FM1, the second frame FM2, and the central frame CFM may be arranged in a first direction DR1. The second frame FM2 may be disposed between the first frame FM1 and the central frame CFM. The first frame FM1 may be disposed between the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 and the second frame FM2. The central frame CFM and the second frame FM2 may be defined as a central body. The central bodies CFM, FM2 may be disposed under the folding area FA shown in FIG. 9.

[0143] 14 and 15, the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be inserted into the first frame FM1 and coupled to the first frame FM1. For example, a third hole H3 extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined in a portion of the first frame FM1 adjacent to the upper side of the first frame FM1. The first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be inserted into the third hole H3 and coupled to the first frame FM1.

[0144] The gears GR1 and GR2 may extend in a first direction DR1. The gears GR1 and GR2 may include a plurality of first gears GR1 and a plurality of second gears GR2. Although two first gears GR1 and two second gears GR2 are shown as an example, the number of the first and second gears GR1 and GR2 is not limited thereto. The first gears GR1 extend in the first direction DR1 and may rotate in mesh with each other in the second direction DR2.

[0145] The second gear GR2 may extend in the first direction DR1 and be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The first gear GR1 may be disposed between the second gear GR2. The second gear GR2 may rotate in mesh with the first gear GR1 in the second direction DR2. The first and second gears GR1 and GR2 may rotate about a gear rotation axis parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0146] The first gear GR1 may include a plurality of first protrusions PT1 disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the first gear GR1 adjacent to one side of the first gear GR1 among both sides of the first gear GR1 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1 and defining a gear shape. The first protrusions PT1 of the first gear GR1 may mesh with each other and move, so that the first gear GR1 may rotate together.

[0147] One side of the second gear GR2 among both sides of the second gear GR2 that are opposite to each other in the first direction DR1 may be adjacent to one side of the first gear GR1. The second gear GR2 may include a plurality of second protrusions P2 disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the second gear GR2 adjacent to the other side of the second gear GR2 among both sides of the second gear GR2 and defining a gear shape. The second gear GR2 may rotate together with the first gear GR1 as the second protrusions PT2 and the first protrusions PT1 move while meshing with each other.

[0148] The first gear GR1 may be inserted into the cams CAM1, CAM2 and the springs SPR1, SPR2, so that the cams CAM1, CAM2 and the springs SPR1, SPR2 are disposed in the first gear GR1. The other side of the first gear GR1 may be inserted into the cams CAM1, CAM2 and the springs SPR1, SPR2. The cams CAM1, CAM2 and the springs SPR1, SPR2 may be disposed between the first protrusion PT1 and the other side of the second gear GR1.

[0149] One side of the first and second gears GR1, GR2 may face the first frame FM1, and the other side of the first and second gears GR1, GR2 may face the second frame FM2. One side of the first and second gears GR1, GR2 may be inserted into the first frame FM1, and the other side of the first and second gears GR1, GR2 may be inserted into the second frame FM2.

[0150] A plurality of fourth and fifth holes H4, H5 extending in the first direction DR1 may be defined in a portion of the first frame FM1 adjacent to the lower side of the first frame FM1. The fourth and fifth holes H4, H5 may be disposed below the third hole H3. The fourth hole H4 may correspond to the first gear GR1. The fifth hole H5 may correspond to the second gear GR2.

[0151] One side of the first gear GR1 is inserted into the fourth hole H4, so that the first gear GR1 can be coupled to the first frame FM1, and one side of the second gear GR2 is inserted into the fifth hole H5, so that the second gear GR2 can be coupled to the first frame FM1.

[0152] A portion of the first frame FM1 between the third hole H3 and the fourth hole H4 is defined as a flat portion PP, and may have a flat plate shape defined by the first and second directions DR1, DR2.

[0153] A seating groove SGV may be defined in the upper portion of both sides of the second frame FM2 facing each other in the first direction DR1. An end of the flat portion PP may be disposed in the seating groove SGV of the second frame FM2 facing the first frame FM1. An upper portion of one side of the central frame CFM may be disposed in the seating groove SGV of the second frame FM2 facing the central frame CFM.

[0154] 14 and 16, an internal space SPC and a plurality of insertion grooves IGV may be defined in the second frame FM2. The internal space SPC may be defined to correspond to the first gear GR1. The insertion grooves IGV may be defined to correspond to the second gear GR2. The other side of the first gear GR1 may be inserted into the internal space SPC. The other side of the second gear GR2 may be inserted into the insertion grooves IGV.

[0155] Two holes are defined at the tip of the internal space SPC, and the other sides of the first gear GR1 can be disposed in the two holes, respectively. The first and second cams CAM1, CAM2 and the first and second springs SPR1, SPR2 can be disposed in the internal space SPC to be disposed inside the second frame FM2.

[0156] 14, the bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 may include a first bracket cam BCM1 coupled to the first bracket body BBD1 and a second bracket cam BCM2 coupled to the second bracket body BBD2. The first bracket cam BCM1 and the second bracket cam BCM2 may be arranged in the second direction DR2 and may have shapes symmetrical to each other in the second direction.

[0157] A groove GV may be defined on both sides of the first frame FM1 that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 may be disposed in the groove GV. One side of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 that face each other in the second direction DR2 may be disposed in the groove GV.

[0158] One side of the second gear GR2 may be inserted into one side of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2. Thus, one side of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 may be coupled to the second gear GR2. One side of the second gear GR2 may be inserted into a groove H defined on one side of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2, so that the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 may be coupled to the second gear GR2.

[0159] The other sides of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 protrude in the first direction DR1 and may be disposed in guide grooves GG defined in the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2, respectively. A ring unit RG may be disposed on the other sides of the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 protruding in the first direction DR1.

[0160] The guide groove GG may be defined on one surface of the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 facing the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2. The guide groove GG may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0161] When the first and second rotating pin units RPN1, RPN2 rotate, the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may rotate together with the second gear GR2 and move along the guide groove GG, which will be described in detail below.

[0162] A second groove GV2 may be defined on both upper sides of the second frame FM2 that are opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The second groove GV2 may extend in the first direction DR1. When the hinge module HGM is connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2, one side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1' that face each other may be disposed in the second groove GV2.

[0163] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the torque control unit shown in FIG.

[0164] Hereinafter, FIG. 14 will be described together as necessary.

[0165] 14 and 17, the torque control unit TQC may include a plurality of first gears GR1, a plurality of cams CAM1, CAM2, and a plurality of springs SPR1, SPR2. The cams CAM1, CAM2 may include a first cam CAM1 and a second cam CAM2 spaced apart in a first direction DR1.

[0166] The first cam CAM1 may include a first moving cam MVC1 and a first rotating cam RCM1. The second cam CAM2 may include a second moving cam MVC2 and a second rotating cam RCM2. The springs SPR1 and SPR2 may include a first spring SPR1 and a second spring SPR2 that extend in the first direction DR1, respectively.

[0167] A first gear GR1 may be inserted into the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2. A first gear GR1 may be commonly inserted into each of the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2. The first gear GR1 may be inserted into holes defined in the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2 so as to penetrate in a first direction DR1. One side of the first gear GR1 may be inserted into holes defined in the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2, and the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of a portion of the first gear GR1.

[0168] A first gear GR1 may be inserted into the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2. The first gear GR1 may be inserted into the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2 such that the first gear GR1 corresponds to the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2 in a one-to-one relationship.

[0169] The first gears GR1 may be inserted into holes defined in the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2 so as to penetrate in a first direction DR1. One side of the first gear GR1 may be inserted into holes defined in the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2, and the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of a portion of the first gear GR1.

[0170] A first gear GR1 may be inserted into the first and second springs SPR1 and SPR2. The first gear GR1 may be inserted into the first and second springs SPR1 and SPR2 such that the first gear GR1 corresponds to the first and second springs SPR1 and SPR2 in a one-to-one relationship.

[0171] The first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2 may be disposed between a corresponding pair of rotating cams and springs among the first and second rotating cams RCM1 and RCM2 and the first and second springs SPR1 and SPR2. The corresponding pair of rotating cams and springs may be disposed on the same first gear GR1. Thus, the first and second moving cams MVC1 and MVC2 may be disposed between a pair of rotating cams and springs disposed on the corresponding first gear GR1 among the first gears GR1.

[0172] The first moving cam MVC1 may be disposed between a first rotating cam RCM1 disposed on one of the first gears GR1 and a first spring SPR1. The second moving cam MVC2 may be disposed between a second rotating cam RCM2 disposed on the other of the first gears GR1 and a second spring SPR2.

[0173] One surface of the moving cam and one surface of the rotating cam arranged on the same first gear GR1 and facing each other may include a protrusion. The protrusion on the one surface of the moving cam and the protrusion on the one surface of the rotating cam arranged on the same first gear GR1 may be offset from each other.

[0174] For example, one surface of the first moving cam MVC1 and one surface of the first rotating cam RCM1, which are disposed on one first gear GR1 and face each other, may include a protrusion. The protrusion on one surface of the first moving cam MVC1 and the protrusion on one surface of the first rotating cam RCM1 may be offset from each other.

[0175] One surface of the second moving cam MVC2 and one surface of the second rotating cam RCM2, which are disposed on another one of the first gears GR1 and face each other, may include a protrusion. The protrusion on one surface of the second moving cam MVC2 and the protrusion on one surface of the second rotating cam RCM2 may be offset from each other.

[0176] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a state in which the first hinge shown in Fig. 11 and Fig. 14 is coupled to the first and second bodies, and Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration disposed within the first and second frames shown in Fig. 18.

[0177] For example, the second, third and fourth support plates SPT1, SPT2 and SPT3 are omitted in Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, and the first and second frames FM1 and FM2 are omitted in Fig. 19. Hereinafter, Fig. 14 will be described together as needed.

[0178] 14, 18 and 19, the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 may be connected to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 via screws inserted into the first holes H1.

[0179] The first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 may be inserted into the first frame FM1 and rotatably coupled to the first frame FM1. The first rotating pin unit RPN1 may define a first rotation axis RX1, and the second rotating pin unit RPN2 may define a second rotation axis RX2.

[0180] The first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may be coupled to the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2. The first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may be disposed on the first frame FM1, and the second gear GR2 may be inserted into the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2, so that the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may be coupled to the first frame FM1. The first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may be coupled to the second gear GR2 so as to rotate together with the second gear GR2.

[0181] An end of the flat portion PP is disposed in a seating groove SGV defined on one side of the second frame FM2, and the first and second frames FM1 and FM2 may be connected to each other by a fastening unit such as a screw.

[0182] The first and second gears GR1, GR2 may be inserted into the first and second frames FM1, FM2 and coupled to the first and second frames FM1, FM2. The first and second protrusions PT1, PT2 may be disposed to mesh with each other and coupled to rotate with each other.

[0183] The first and second moving cams MVC1, MVC2, the first and second rotating cams RCM1, RCM2, and the first and second springs SPT1, SPR2 may be coupled to the first gear GR1 and disposed inside the second frame FM2. The first and second rotating cams RCM1, RCM2 may be coupled to the first gear GR1 so as to rotate together with the first gear GR1.

[0184] One side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1' may be disposed in the first groove GV1 and the first groove GV2. The first and second coupling parts CUP1 and CUP2 of the first support plates SPT1 and SPT1' may be rotatably coupled to the first and second rotation planes RTS1 and RTS2 defined in the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2.

[0185] 20a and 20b are diagrams for explaining the operation of the first rotating cam and the first moving cam shown in FIG.

[0186] By way of example, the operation of the first rotating cam RCM1 and the first moving cam MVC1 will be described, but the operation of the second rotating cam RCM2 and the second moving cam MVC2 may also be substantially the same as the operation of the first rotating cam RCM1 and the first moving cam MVC1.

[0187] Referring to Fig. 20a, the first protrusion PRT1 of the first rotating cam RCM1 may be disposed between the second protrusion PRT2 of the first moving cam MVC1. The first protrusion PRT1 may be maintained in a state disposed between the second protrusion PRT2 by an elastic force applied by the first spring SPR1. Exemplarily, Fig. 20a may show a state in which the display device DD is not folded. By maintaining a state in which the first protrusion PRT1 is disposed between the second protrusion PRT2, the display device DD may be more easily maintained in an unfolded state.

[0188] 20b, the display device DD may be folded by an external force (e.g., a user's force). When the first rotating cam RCM1 rotates due to the external force, the first protrusion PRT1 may move counterclockwise through the protruding upper surface of the second protrusion PRT2. When the user's force becomes greater than the force for maintaining the first protrusion PRT1 between the second protrusions PRT2, the first protrusion PRT1 may move through the upper surface of the second protrusion PRT2, and the display device DD may be folded.

[0189] By such an operation, when the user unfolds the display device DD, the unfolded state can be easily maintained (e.g., can be sustained), and when the user wants to fold the display device DD, the display device DD can be folded by applying a predetermined force to the display device DD. For such an operation, a torque control unit TQC including first and second cams CAM1 and CAM2 can be provided in the hinge module HGM.

[0190] Figure 21a is a diagram showing the unfolded state of the folding set shown in Figure 10. Figure 21b is a diagram showing the folded state of the folding set shown in Figure 21a.

[0191] 21a and 21b, the folding set FST can be folded by rotating around the first and second rotation axes RX1, RX2 defined by the first and second rotating pin units RPN1, RPN2. The support plates SPT can be rotated relative to each other as the folding set FST is folded. The display module DM disposed on the folding set FST can be folded as the folding set FST is folded. The folded state of the display module DM is shown in Figs. 23a, 23b, and 23c below.

[0192] Fig. 22a is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' in Fig. 18. Figs. 22b and 22c are cross-sectional views for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in Fig. 22a.

[0193] Hereinafter, FIG. 18 will be described together as necessary for explanation.

[0194] 18, 22a, 22b, and 2c, the first and second rotating pin units RPN1, RPN2 may rotate about the first and second rotating shafts RX1, RX2 to fold the folding set FST. As the first and second rotating pin units RPN1, RPN2 rotate, the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 may rotate and move about the first and second rotating shafts RX1, RX2.

[0195] As the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 rotate, the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 connected to the first and second bracket bodies BBD1 and BBD2 may rotate and move around the first and second rotation axes RX1 and RX2. For example, the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and PRT2 may provide the first and second rotation axes RX1 and RX2 to the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2, and the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 may rotate around the first and second rotation axes RX1 and RX2. The folding set FST is folded inward so that the first body BD1 and the second body BD2 face each other.

[0196] The first and second gears GR1 and GR2 may be disposed below the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2. The first and second gears GR1 and GR2 may rotate in conjunction with the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 when the first and second rotating pin units RPN1 and RPN2 rotate.

[0197] For example, the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2, which rotate together with the first and second rotating pin units RPN1, RPN, move, so that the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 coupled to the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 move. The first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 move, so that the second gear GR2 coupled to the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 rotates.

[0198] As the second gear GR2 rotates, the first gear GR1 meshed with the second gear GR2 may rotate. For example, as the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2 rotate and move, the first and second gears GR1 and GR2 may rotate together with the first and second bracket cams BCM1 and BCM2. The first and second gears GR1 and GR2 are parallel to the first direction DR1 and may each rotate around a gear rotation axis GRX defined at the center of the first and second gears GR1 and GR2 as viewed from the first direction DR1.

[0199] When the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 rotate, one ends of the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 may move along the guide grooves GG defined in the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2. When the folding set RST is folded, the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 and the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 may move relatively apart. As the first and second bracket cams BCM1, BCM2 move along the guide grooves GG, the first and second bracket bodies BBD1, BBD2 may move more easily.

[0200] Figure 23a is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in Figure 18. Figures 23b and 23c are cross-sectional views for explaining the folded state of the folding set shown in Figure 23a.

[0201] Exemplarily, Figures 23a, 23b, and 23c show the display module DM together with the folding set FST to explain the folding state of the display module DM, and Figure 18 shows the cross sections of Figures 23a, 23b, and 23c with the second, third, and fourth support plates SPT2, SPT3, and SPT4 further arranged.

[0202] 23a, the display module DM may be arranged on the folding set FST. The folding area FA may include a curved portion CSP and an inverse curvature portion ICV. The inverse curvature portion ICV may be arranged between the curved portion CSP and the first non-folding area NFA1, and between the curved portion CSP and the second non-folding area NFA2.

[0203] The first body BD1 may be disposed below the first non-folding area NFA1, and the second body BD2 may be disposed below the second non-folding area NFA2. In plan view, the first and second rotation axes RX1, RX2 may overlap the folding area FA. The first and second rotation axes RX1, RX2 may be disposed below the top surface of the display module DM.

[0204] The central frame CFM may be disposed below the folding area FA. First and second frames FM1 and FM2 arranged in a first direction DR1 with the central frame CFM may also be disposed below the folding area FA.

[0205] The first body BD1 and the second body BD2 may extend below the reverse curvature portion ICB and the curved surface portion CSP. The first body BD1 and the second body BD2 may be adjacent in the second direction DR2 below the curved surface portion CSP.

[0206] The upper surfaces of the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 facing the reverse curvature portion ICV may be defined as a first inclined surface SLP1 and a second inclined surface SLP2, respectively. The upper surface of the first body BD1 below the first support plate SPT1 may be formed as the first inclined surface SPL1. The upper surface of the second body BD2 below the first support plate SPT1' may be formed as the second inclined surface SPL2. The first inclined surface SLP1 and the second inclined surface SLP2 may have a step with the upper surfaces of the first and second bodies BD1 and BD2 disposed below the first and second non-folding areas NFA1 and NFA2.

[0207] The support plate SPT may be disposed between the central frame CFM and the folding area FA. The first support plate SPT1, SPT1' may be disposed between the first and second inclined surfaces SLP1, SLP2 and the reverse curvature portion ICV. The first support plate SPT1, SPT1' may be adjacent to the first boundary BA1 and the second boundary BA2, respectively.

[0208] One side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1' facing each other may be disposed on both sides of the central frame CFM. One side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1' facing each other may be disposed on a first groove GV1 defined on both sides of the central frame CFM. A fourth support plate SPT4 may also be disposed on the first groove GV1.

[0209] One side of the first support plate SPT1 and one side of the first support plate SPT1' may be disposed on a second groove GV2 defined in the second frame FM2, and the fourth support plate SPT4 may also be disposed on the second groove GV2.

[0210] 23b and 23c, the folding set FST may be folded around the first and second rotation axes RX1 and RX2 to fold the display module DM. The folding area FA may be bent to fold the display module DD. The display module DM may be folded inward such that the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other.

[0211] The curved portion CSP may be curved when the display module DM is folded. The curved portion CSP may be curved to have a predetermined curvature. The reverse curvature portion ICV may be curved opposite to the curved portion CSP. The reverse curvature portions ICV may be curved symmetrically to each other. The curvature of the reverse curvature portion ICV may be different from the curvature of the curved portion CSP.

[0212] Due to the above-mentioned folding structure, when the display module DM is folded, the distance GP1 between the first non-folding area NFA1 and the second non-folding area NFA2 may be smaller than the second distance GP2 between the boundary defined between the curved surface portion CSP and the reverse curvature portion ICV, so that when the display module DM is folded, the display module DM may be folded into a dumbbell shape.

[0213] When the folding area FA is not folded, the support plates SPT may be arranged in the second direction DR2 to support the folding area FA. When the folding area FA is folded, the support plates SPT may rotate relative to each other and be arranged along the folding area FA. The support plates SPT may be arranged in a dumbbell shape like the folding area FA.

[0214] When the display module DM is folded, the stress in the folding region FA may cause the first support plate SPT1 to move toward the first inclined surface SLP1 and contact the first inclined surface SLP1, and the stress in the folding region FA may cause the first support plate SPT1' to move toward the second inclined surface SLP2 and contact the second inclined surface SLP2.

[0215] When the folding region FA is folded, the support plate SPT may at least partially surround the lower surface of the folding region FA facing the support plate SPT. Since the support plate SPT surrounds and protects the folding region FA, the curved portion CSP may not contact the central frame CFM. The support plate SPT may be embodied as a film containing a non-metallic material and a plastic material. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the support plate SPT may contain a metallic material.

[0216] FIG. 24 is a close-up view of the folded display module shown in FIG. 23c.

[0217] 23c and 24, the curvature of the folding area FA bent along the support plate SPT may be partially different. For example, the first curvature CV1 of each of the reverse curvature portions ICV may be smaller than the curvature of the curved surface portion CSP.

[0218] Curvature indicates the degree of bending, and the radius of curvature may be defined as the radius of the circle defined by the curvature. The curvature and the radius of curvature may be inversely proportional. For example, the greater the curvature, the greater the bending, and in such a case, the radius of curvature may be relatively small. Furthermore, the smaller the curvature, the more slowly the bending, and in such a case, the radius of curvature may be relatively large.

[0219] The curvature of the curved portion CSP may vary in parts. The curvature of the curved portion CSP may increase from the center of the curved portion CSP toward the boundary between the inverse curvature portion ICV and the curved portion CSP. The center of the curved portion CSP may be defined as the center point CP of the curved portion CSP based on the second direction DR2 when the curved portion CSP is expanded.

[0220] The curved surface portion CSP may include a first curved surface portion CSP1, a second curved surface portion CSP2, and a third curved surface portion CSP3 having different curvatures. The first curved surface portion CSP1 may be defined as a central portion of the curved surface portion CSP. The center point of the first curved surface portion CSP1 may be defined as the above-mentioned center point CP. The second curved surface portion CSP2 may be disposed between the reverse curvature portion ICV and the first curved surface portion CSP1. The third curved surface portion CSP3 may be disposed between the reverse curvature portion ICV and the second curved surface portion CSP2.

[0221] A first radius of curvature CR1 may be defined by the first curvature CV1. The first radius of curvature CV1 may be smaller than a second radius of curvature CV2 of the first curved surface portion CSP1. The first radius of curvature CR1 may be larger than a second radius of curvature CR2 defined by the second curvature CV2.

[0222] The second radius of curvature CV2 may be smaller than the third radius of curvature CV3 of each of the second curved surface portions CSP2. The second radius of curvature CR2 may be larger than the third radius of curvature CR3 defined by the third radius of curvature CV3.

[0223] The third radius of curvature CV3 may be smaller than the fourth radius of curvature CV4 of each of the third curved surface portions CSP3. The third radius of curvature CR3 may be larger than the fourth radius of curvature CR4 defined by the fourth radius of curvature CV4.

[0224] FIG. 25 is an enlarged view of the display module and support plate shown in FIG. 23c.

[0225] Hereinafter, as necessary, FIG. 13 and FIG. 24 will be described together with FIG.

[0226] 13, 24, and 25, the first support plate SPT1, SPT1' may be adjacent to the reverse curvature portion ICV. The second, third, and fourth support plates SPT2, SPT3, SPT4 may be adjacent to the curved portion CSP. The second support plate SPT2 may be adjacent to the first curved portion CSP1. The third support plate SPT3 may be adjacent to the second curved portion CSP2. The fourth support plate SPT4 may be adjacent to the third curved portion CSP3.

[0227] Hereinafter, lengths L1 to L4 of the support plate SPT referred to in FIGS. 24 and 25 refer to the length of the support plate SPT in FIG. 13 in the second direction DR2.

[0228] The lengths L1 to L4 of the support plates SPT may be greater as the curvature of the folding region FA is smaller. For example, the first curvature CV1 may be smaller than the second, third, and fourth curvatures CV2, CV3, and CV4. Thus, the first length L1 of the first support plates SPT1, SPT1' adjacent to the reverse curvature portion ICV may be greater than the second, third, and fourth lengths L2, L3, and L4 of the second, third, and fourth support plates SPT2, SPT3, and SPT4 adjacent to the curved surface portion CSP.

[0229] The second, third, and fourth curvatures CV2, CV3, CV4 of the curved portion CSP may cause the length of the support plate SPT to decrease from the center of the curved portion CSP toward the boundary between the inverse curvature portion ICV and the curvature portion CSP.

[0230] For example, the second curvature CV2 may be smaller than the third curvature CV3, and the third curvature CV3 may be smaller than the fourth curvature CV4. Thus, the second length L2 of the second support plate SPT2 adjacent to the first curved surface portion CSP1 may be larger than the third length L3 of each of the third support plates SPT3 adjacent to the second curved surface portion CSP2. The third length L3 of each of the third support plates SPT3 adjacent to the second curved surface portion CSP2 may be larger than the fourth length L4 of each of the fourth support plates SPT4 adjacent to the fourth curved surface portion CSP4.

[0231] Since the support plate SPT has different lengths depending on the curvatures CV1 to CV4 of the folding region FA, an appropriate support plate SPT can be positioned depending on the degree to which the folding region FA is bent.

[0232] The distance between the rotation axes PRX defined on both sides of each of the support plates SPT may be set to be different depending on the curvature of the folding region FA. For example, the distance between the rotation axes PRX of each of the support plates SPT may be larger as the curvature of the folding region FA is smaller.

[0233] The distance between the rotation axes PRX of the first support plates SPT1, SPT1' may be greater than the distance between the rotation axes PRX of the second support plates SPT2. The distance between the rotation axes PRX of the second support plates SPT2 may be greater than the distance between the rotation axes PRX of the third support plates SPT3. The distance between the rotation axes PRX of the third support plates SPT3 may be greater than the distance between the rotation axes PRX of the fourth support plates SPT4.

[0234] In the embodiment of the present invention, when the folding area FA is folded, the length of the support plate SPT is set to be different according to the curvature of the folding area FA, so that the support plate SPT can surround the lower surface of the folding area FA, and thus the support plate SPT can be easily folded together with the folding area FA to protect the folding area FA.

[0235] Figure 26a is an enlarged view of the first region A1 of Figure 23c, and Figure 26b is an enlarged view of the reverse curvature portion shown in Figure 26a in an unfolded state.

[0236] For illustrative purposes, Figures 26a and 26b show the peripheral configuration of one of the reverse curvature portions ICV, but the peripheral configurations of other reverse curvature portions ICV may also be substantially the same as the peripheral configurations of the reverse curvature portions ICV shown in Figures 26a and 26b.

[0237] 26a and 26b, the upper surface of the second body BD2 and the upper surface of the first support plate SPT1' adjacent to each other may have a curved surface. For example, the first upper surface US1 of the first support plate SPT1' adjacent to the second boundary BA2 and the second upper surface US2 of the second body BD2 disposed under the second non-folding area NFA2 and adjacent to the second boundary BA2 may have a curved surface. The second boundary BA2 and one side WOS of the second wing plate WPT2 adjacent to the second boundary BA2 may be disposed to be adjacent to the center of the second reverse curvature portion ICV.

[0238] As shown in Fig. 26a, when the display module DM is folded, the second reverse curvature portion ICV may be bent in contact with the first and second top surfaces US1, US2. The curved surface of the first top surface US1 and the curved surface of the second top surface US2 may have a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface of the reverse curvature portion ICV. Since the first and second top surfaces US1, US2 have curved surfaces, the second reverse curvature portion ICV may be more easily bent along the first and second top surfaces US1, US2.

[0239] 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 their equivalents should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0240] 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 an improved service life.

Claims

1. a display module including a folding region folded about a folding axis extending in a first direction and first and second non-folding regions extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the folding region being disposed between the first non-folding region and the second non-folding region; a first body disposed beneath the first non-folding region; a second body disposed beneath the second non-folding region; a central body disposed below the folding region; a plurality of support plates each extending in the first direction, arranged in the second direction, and disposed between the central body and the folding region and rotatably coupled to each other; The length of the plurality of support plates in the second direction is increased as the curvature of the folding region is decreased.

2. when the folding region is folded, the plurality of support plates at least partially surround a lower surface of the folding region opposite the plurality of support plates; The display device according to claim 1 .

3. Among the plurality of support plates, the support plates closest to the first and second bodies are rotatably coupled to the first and second bodies. The display device according to claim 1 .

4. a distance between rotation axes defined on both sides of each of the plurality of support plates opposite to each other in the second direction and extending in the first direction is greater as the curvature of the folding region is smaller; The display device according to claim 3 .

5. The folding region is A curved surface portion that bends in a curved shape; Reverse curvature portions are disposed between the first non-folding region and the curved portion, and between the second non-folding region and the curved portion, and are bent symmetrically to each other and in a direction opposite to that of the curved portion; The display device according to claim 1 .

6. a distance between the first and second non-folding regions is less than a distance between boundary points defined between the curved portion and the reverse curvature portion; The display device according to claim 5 .

7. The curvature of each of the reverse curvature portions is smaller than the curvature of the curved surface portion; The display device according to claim 5 .

8. a length of each of the plurality of support plates that is closest to the reverse curvature portion is greater than a length of each of the plurality of support plates that is closest to the curved portion; The display device according to claim 5 .

9. The curvature of the curved surface portion increases from the center of the curved surface portion toward the boundary between the reverse curvature portion and the curved surface portion. The display device according to claim 5 .

10. a length of the support plate closest to the curved surface portion among the plurality of support plates becomes smaller from the center of the curved surface portion toward the boundary between the reverse curvature portion and the curved surface portion; The display device according to claim 5 .

11. The curved surface portion is A first curved surface portion disposed at a center portion of the curved surface portion; A second curved surface portion disposed between the reverse curvature portion and the first curved surface portion, and a third curved surface portion disposed between the reverse curvature portion and the second curved surface portion. The display device according to claim 5 .

12. a first curvature of each of the reverse curvature portions is smaller than a second curvature of each of the first curved portions, the second curvature is smaller than a third curvature of each of the second curved portions, and the third curvature is smaller than a fourth curvature of each of the third curved portions; The display device according to claim 11.

13. Each of the plurality of support plates comprises: a first support plate closest to the reverse curvature and having a first length in the second direction; a second support plate closest to the first curved surface portion and having a second length in the second direction that is smaller than the first length; a third support plate closest to the second curved surface portion and having a third length in the second direction that is smaller than the second length; a fourth support plate closest to the third curved surface portion and having a fourth length in the second direction that is smaller than the third length; The display device according to claim 11.

14. the first and second bodies each extend below the reverse curvature portion; upper surfaces of the first and second bodies facing the reverse curvature portions have inclined surfaces, and the inclined surfaces have a step with the upper surfaces of the first and second bodies disposed under the first and second non-folding regions; The height of the inclined surface is gradually decreased toward one side of the first body and one side of the second body facing each other. The display device according to claim 13.

15. the first support plate is disposed on the inclined surface; The display device according to claim 14.

16. the first support plate is rotatably coupled to a plane of rotation defined at an interface between the inclined surface and the top surface of the first and second bodies; The display device according to claim 14.

17. the central body further includes a central frame disposed between the first support plates in the second direction; the first support plate and the fourth support plate facing each other are disposed in grooves defined in upper portions of opposite sides of the central frame in the second direction; The display device according to claim 14.

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