Display Module

Abstract

The display module includes: (1) a display unit including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region, and a folding region between the first region and the second region; (2) a first support member disposed below the display unit and supporting the display unit in the first region, the second region, and the folding region; (3) a second support member disposed below the first support member and including a first sub-support member supporting the first region of the display unit and a second sub-support member supporting the second region of the display unit and spaced apart from the first sub-support member; and (4) an elastic member disposed between the first sub-support member and the second sub-support member and supporting the folding region of the display unit by being compressed by each of the first sub-support member and the second sub-support member when the display unit is in an unfolded state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display module for displaying an image. [Background technology]

[0002] A foldable display device is a display device that can be repeatedly folded or unfolded. The foldable display device includes a display module that has a flexible property in some areas (e.g., folding areas) so that it can be repeatedly folded or unfolded, and a housing (or case) that houses the display module.

[0003] The display module is relatively vulnerable to external impact in the folding region. For example, if a user of the foldable display device applies pressure, such as a touch input, to the folding region while the display module is unfolded, the display module may be damaged (e.g., pressed) in the folding region. This may result in display defects in the folding region of the display module. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a display module for preventing display defects in the bending region.

[0005] However, the object of the present invention is not limited to the above object, and can be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the object of the present invention, a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by including: (1) a display unit including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region, and a folding region between the first region and the second region; (2) a first support member disposed below the display unit and supporting the display unit in the first region, the second region, and the folding region; (3) a second support member disposed below the first support member and including a first sub-support member supporting the first region of the display unit and a second sub-support member supporting the second region of the display unit and spaced apart from the first sub-support member; and (4) an elastic member disposed between the first sub-support member and the second sub-support member and supporting the folding region of the display unit by being compressed by each of the first sub-support member and the second sub-support member when the display unit is in an unfolded state.

[0007] When the display unit is in the folded state, each of the first sub-support and the second sub-support is spaced apart from the elastic portion.

[0008] The elastic portion includes a first adhesive portion that is arranged between the first sub-support portion and the first support portion and adheres the first sub-support portion and the first support portion to each other, a second adhesive portion that is arranged between the second sub-support portion and the first support portion and adheres the second sub-support portion and the first support portion to each other, and a third adhesive portion that is arranged between the first adhesive portion and the second adhesive portion and adheres the first support portion and the elastic portion to each other.

[0009] The third adhesive portion includes: (1) a first adhesive layer that is arranged below the first support portion and includes an adhesive member that overlaps the entire bending region, and a barrier layer that is arranged below the adhesive member and overlaps the entire bending region; and (2) a second adhesive layer that is arranged below the barrier layer and adheres the barrier layer and the elastic portion to each other.

[0010] A plurality of grooves are defined in the first support portion so as to overlap the bending region and extend in the thickness direction of the display portion.

[0011] The first sub-support portion further includes a first protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the second sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and applies pressure to the lower surface of the elastic portion, and the second sub-support portion further includes a second protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and applies pressure to the lower surface of the elastic portion.

[0012] When the display unit is in the unfolded state, the separation distance between the first sub-support part and the second sub-support part on the cross section gradually decreases as the distance increases from the bottom surface of the display unit.

[0013] When the display unit is in an unfolded state, the first sub-support part overlaps the entire first area of ​​the display unit, and when the display unit is in an unfolded state, the second sub-support part overlaps the entire second area of ​​the display unit.

[0014] The density of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is greater than the density of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

[0015] The volume of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is 80% or less of the volume of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

[0016] In order to achieve the object of the present invention, a display module according to another aspect of the present invention includes: (1) a display unit including a first region, a second region separated from the first region, and a folding region between the first region and the second region; (2) a first support member disposed below the display unit and supporting the display unit in the first region, the second region, and the folding region; and (3) a first sub-support member disposed below the first support member and supporting the first region of the display unit, and a second sub-support member supporting the second region of the display unit and separated from the first sub-support member. and (4) an elastic portion including: (4-1) a first fixed portion that is bonded to the first support portion between the first sub-support portion and the first support portion; (4-2) a second fixed portion that is bonded to the first support portion between the second sub-support portion and the first support portion; and (4-3) an elastic portion that connects the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion, and that is compressed by each of the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion when the display unit is in an unfolded state, thereby supporting the bending region of the display unit.

[0017] The first support portion has a plurality of grooves defined therein, the grooves being formed in the thickness direction of the display portion so as to overlap the bending region.

[0018] The first sub-support portion further includes a first protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the second sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and applies pressure to the lower surface of the elastic portion, and the second sub-support portion further includes a second protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and applies pressure to the lower surface of the elastic portion.

[0019] In the unfolded state of the display unit, the separation distance between the first sub-support part and the second sub-support part on the cross section gradually decreases as it goes farther away from the bottom surface of the display unit.

[0020] When the display unit is in an unfolded state, the first sub-support part overlaps the entire first area of ​​the display unit, and when the display unit is in an unfolded state, the second sub-support part overlaps the entire second area of ​​the display unit.

[0021] The density of the non-fixed portions when the display unit is in the unfolded state is greater than the density of the non-fixed portions when the display unit is in the folded state.

[0022] The volume of the non-fixed portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is 80% or less of the volume of the non-fixed portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

[0023] The first fixing portion is in direct contact with an upper surface of the first sub-support portion, and the second fixing portion is in direct contact with an upper surface of the second sub-support portion.

[0024] When the display unit is in the folded state, the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion are each spaced apart from the non-fixed portion.

[0025] (1) a first adhesive layer disposed below the first support portion and overlapping the entire folding region; (2) a barrier layer disposed below the first adhesive layer and overlapping the entire folding region; and (3) a second adhesive layer disposed below the barrier layer, including a first sub-adhesive layer that adheres the barrier layer and the first fixing portion to each other, and a second sub-adhesive layer that adheres the barrier layer and the second fixing portion to each other and is spaced apart from the first sub-adhesive layer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The display module of the present invention includes an elastic portion that is compressed by each of a first sub-support portion and a second sub-support portion when the display unit is in an unfolded state to support the folding region of the display unit. In this case, the folding region of the display unit is supported by the elastic portion, so that the folding region of the display unit is not damaged (e.g., pressed) by an external impact.

[0027] Another display module of the present invention includes an elastic part including a non-fixed part that is compressed by each of a first sub-support part and a second sub-support part when the display part is in an unfolded state to support a bending region of the display part. In this case, the bending region of the display part is supported by the non-fixed part of the elastic part, so that failure (e.g., pressure) due to external impact does not occur in the bending region of the display part.

[0028] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and can be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module included in the display device of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module included in the display device of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 2 according to various embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 2 according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 2 according to various embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 2 according to various embodiments. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module included in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module included in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B of FIG. 8 according to various embodiments. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B of FIG. 8 according to various embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B according to various embodiments of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B according to various embodiments of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Hereinafter, a display module according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals are used to refer to the same components throughout the drawings.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the display device 1000 includes a display area (DA) and a surrounding area (SA).

[0033] The display area (DA) is an area where an image is displayed. More specifically, the display device 1000 includes a plurality of pixels arranged in the display area (DA), each of which emits light. The display device 1000 displays an image by combining the light emitted from the plurality of pixels.

[0034] The peripheral area (SA) is adjacent to at least one side of the display area (DA). For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the peripheral area (SA) surrounds the display area (DA) (e.g., surrounds it in a planar manner or extends along the periphery of the display area (DA)). The display device 1000 includes a driving circuit disposed in the peripheral area (SA), which provides driving signals to the plurality of pixels.

[0035] In one embodiment, the display area (DA) includes (or is partitioned into) a first display area (DA1), a second display area (DA2), and a third display area (DA3). Each of the first display area (DA1), the second display area (DA2), and the third display area (DA3) is an area for displaying an image.

[0036] The first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) are spaced apart from each other. The display device 1000 has a substantially flat surface in the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) (e.g., the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) are substantially flat).

[0037] The third display area (DA3) is located between the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2). In this embodiment, the display device 1000 is repeatedly folded or unfolded at the third display area (DA3). For example, when the display device 1000 is folded, the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) face each other, and the third display area (DA3) is bent to have a curvature (e.g., a constant curvature). When the display device 1000 is unfolded, the display device 1000 has substantially flat surfaces in each of the first display area (DA1), the second display area (DA2), and the third display area (DA3). (For example, when the display device (DD) is unfolded, the third display area (DA3) may be substantially flat and coplanar with the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2).)

[0038] Figures 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views illustrating a display module included in the display device of Figure 1. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the display module in an unfolded state, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the display module in a folded state.

[0039] 2 and 3, the display device 1000 includes a display module (DM). The display module (DM) is housed in a housing (not shown) that includes a case for housing the display module (DM), a hinge member (e.g., a hinge) for guiding the folding and unfolding of the display module (DM), etc. In such an embodiment, the housing and the display module (DM) constitute the display device 1000 in FIG.

[0040] The display module (DM) includes a display part 100, a first supporting part 200, an adhesive part 300, a second supporting part 400, and an elastic part 500.

[0041] The display unit 100 includes a display panel including a plurality of pixels, thereby displaying an image on the display unit 100. In one embodiment, the display unit 100 further includes various functional layers disposed above (or below) the display panel. For example, the display unit 100 further includes a polarizing layer, a touch-sensing layer, a cover glass, etc., disposed above the display panel. In some embodiments, the display unit 100 further includes a protective film disposed below the display panel.

[0042] The display unit 100 includes a first region (A1), a second region (A2) spaced apart from the first region (A1), and a folding region (FA) between the first region (A1) and the second region (A2) (or is partitioned into the first region (A1), the second region (A2) spaced apart from the first region (A1), and the folding region (FA) between the first region (A1) and the second region (A2)). The plurality of pixels are arranged in each of the first region (A1), the second region (A2), and the folding region (FA), thereby displaying an image in each of the first region (A1), the second region (A2), and the folding region (FA).

[0043] The first region (A1) corresponds to the first display region (DA1) of the display device 1000, the second region (A2) corresponds to the second display region (DA2) of the display device 1000, and the folding region (FA) corresponds to the third display region (DA3) of the display device 1000. For example, the display unit 100 has a substantially flat surface in each of the first region (A1) and the second region (A2), and can be repeatedly folded or unfolded in the folding region (FA) with reference to a virtual folding axis (FX) extending in the folding direction (DRF).

[0044] The first support part 200 is disposed below the display part 100. The first support part 200 supports the display part 100 as a whole. That is, the first support part 200 can support the display part 100 in the first area (A1), the second area (A2), and the folding area (FA). In order to efficiently support the display part 100, the first support part 200 includes a material with relatively high rigidity. For example, the first support part 200 includes a metal material.

[0045] When the display unit 100 is repeatedly folded or unfolded in the folding region (FA), the first support unit 200 overlapping the folding region (FA) is also repeatedly folded or unfolded. In such an embodiment, in order to improve the flexibility of the first support unit 200 overlapping the folding region (FA), the rigidity of the first support unit 200 overlapping the folding region (FA) is lower than the rigidity of the first support unit 200 overlapping the first region (A1) and the second region (A2). For example, the first support unit 200 overlaps the folding region (FA) and includes a plurality of grooves (e.g., GR in FIG. 4) formed in a first direction (DR1) that is the thickness direction of the display unit 100 and perpendicular to the folding direction (DRF).

[0046] The adhesive portion 300 is disposed below the first support portion 200. The adhesive portion 300 includes an adhesive substance. For example, the adhesive portion 300 includes an adhesive such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). The adhesive portion 300 provides adhesive force to components disposed below the first support portion 200 (e.g., the second support portion 400 and the elastic portion 500), thereby allowing the components disposed below the first support portion 200 to be attached below the first support portion 200.

[0047] The adhesive portion 300 includes a first adhesive portion 310 , a second adhesive portion 320 , and a third adhesive portion 330 .

[0048] The first adhesive region 310 overlaps at least a portion of the first region (A1). The second adhesive region 320 overlaps at least a portion of the second region (A2), and the second adhesive region 320 and the first adhesive region 310 are spaced apart from each other. In such an embodiment, the first adhesive region 310 and the second adhesive region 320 do not overlap the folding region (FA).

[0049] The third adhesive portion 330 is disposed between the first adhesive portion 310 and the second adhesive portion 320. The third adhesive portion 330 includes a first adhesive layer 331 and a second adhesive layer 332.

[0050] The first adhesive layer 331 overlaps the entire folding area (FA). In one embodiment, the first adhesive layer 331 overlaps the entire folding area (FA), as well as a portion of the first area (A1) adjacent to the folding area (FA) and a portion of the second area (A2) adjacent to the folding area (FA) (e.g., the first adhesive layer 331 is slightly longer than the folding area (FA) and extends into the first area (A1) and the second area (A2)).

[0051] The second adhesive layer 332 is disposed below the first adhesive layer 331. The second adhesive layer 332 overlaps a portion of the folding area (FA).

[0052] The second support part 400 includes a first sub-support part 410 and a second sub-support part 420. The second support part 400 includes a material having a relatively high rigidity, for example, a metal material.

[0053] The first sub-support 410 is adhered to the underside of the first support 200 by the first adhesive 310. The first sub-support 410 has a substantially flat surface and overlaps the entire first area (A1). As described above, the first sub-support 410 includes a material with relatively high rigidity. As a result, the first area (A1) of the display unit 100 is supported by the first sub-support 410, and even when the display module (DM) is unfolded (see FIG. 2) or folded (see, for example, FIG. 3), the first area (A1) of the display unit 100 supported by the first sub-support 410 can have a substantially flat surface.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first sub-support 410 also overlaps a portion of the folding region (FA) adjacent to the first region (A1). As a result, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2), the portion of the folding region (FA) adjacent to the first region (A1) of the display unit 100 is supported by the first sub-support 410. For example, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2), the first sub-support 410 allows the portion of the folding region (FA) of the display unit 100 adjacent to the first region (A1) of the display unit 100 to have a substantially flat surface.

[0055] The second sub-support 420 is adhered to the underside of the first support 200 by the second adhesive 320. The second sub-support 420 has a substantially flat surface and overlaps the entire second region (A2). As described above, the second sub-support 420 includes a material with relatively high rigidity. As a result, the second region (A2) of the display unit 100 is supported by the second sub-support 420, and even when the display module (DM) is unfolded (see, for example, FIG. 2) or folded (see, for example, FIG. 3), the second region (A2) of the display unit 100 supported by the second sub-support 420 can have a substantially flat surface.

[0056] In one embodiment, the second sub-support 420 also overlaps a portion of the folding region (FA) adjacent to the second region (A2). As a result, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2), the portion of the folding region (FA) adjacent to the second region (A2) of the display unit 100 is supported by the second sub-support 420. That is, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2), the second sub-support 420 allows the portion of the folding region (FA) of the display unit 100 adjacent to the second region (A2) of the display unit 100 to have a substantially flat surface.

[0057] The first sub-support 410 and the second sub-support 420 are spaced apart from each other. For example, as shown in Figure 2, in the unfolded state of the display module (DM), the second sub-support 420 is spaced apart from the first sub-support 410 in a second direction (DR2) perpendicular to both the first direction (DR1) and the folding direction (DRF). In such an embodiment, the space between the first sub-support 410 and the second sub-support 420 in the unfolded state of the display module (DM) is referred to as a gap (GP).

[0058] The gap (GP) overlaps at least a portion of the folding region (FA). In this embodiment, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2 ), the area of ​​the folding region (FA) of the display unit 100 that overlaps the gap (GP) is not supported by the second support part 400. This makes the area of ​​the folding region (FA) of the display unit 100 that overlaps the gap (GP) vulnerable to external impact. For example, when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state, a user of the display device 1000 may apply pressure, such as a touch input, to the area of ​​the folding region (FA) of the display unit 100 that overlaps the gap (GP). In this case, damage (e.g., pressing) due to the pressure may occur in the area.

[0059] To prevent such damage, an elastic member 500 including an elastic material (e.g., rubber, PET, etc.) may be attached to the first support member 200 by a third adhesive member 330. For example, in one embodiment, the elastic member 500 is adhered to the first adhesive layer 331 by a second adhesive layer 332. The elastic member 500 is disposed between the first sub-support member 410 and the second sub-support member 420. In such an embodiment, when the display module (DM) is in the unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 2 ), the elastic member 500 is pressed in the direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) by the first sub-support member 410 and is pressed in the second direction (DR2) by the second sub-support member 420.

[0060] In this way, the elastic member 500 is compressed by being pressed by the first sub-support member 410 and the second sub-support member 420, thereby increasing the rigidity of the elastic member 500. As a result, when the display module (DM) is in the unfolded state, the elastic member 500 plays a role in supporting the area that overlaps with the gap (GP) in the folding area (FA) of the display unit 100, and the elastic member 500 can prevent or mitigate damage to the folding area (FA).

[0061] In the folded state of the display module (DM) (see, for example, FIG. 3), each of the first sub-support 410 and the second sub-support 420 may be separated from the elastic member 500. For example, when the display module (DM) is in the folded state, the elastic member 500 may not be pressed by the first sub-support 410 and the second sub-support 420.

[0062] In this way, the elastic part 500 can have a relatively flexible property because it is not pressurized by the first sub-support part 410 and the second sub-support part 420. As a result, when the display module (DM) is in a folded state, the elastic part 500 can bend to have a curvature (for example, a constant curvature) in a part of the folding area (FA).

[0063] As described above, the density of the elastic part 500 pressed by each of the first sub-support part 410 and the second sub-support part 420 when the display module (DM) is in the unfolded state may be greater than the density of the elastic part 500 when the display module (DM) is in the folded state. This allows the elastic part 500 to have relatively high rigidity so as to efficiently support the display unit 100 when the display module (DM) is in the unfolded state, and at the same time, the elastic part 500 may have flexible properties when the display module (DM) is in the folded state.

[0064] In one embodiment, in order to efficiently support the display unit 100 when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state, the volume of the elastic part 500 when the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state is approximately 80% or less of the volume of the elastic part 500 when the display module (DM) is in a folded state.

[0065] Figures 4 to 7 are enlarged cross-sectional views of region A according to various embodiments of Figure 2. Figures 4 to 7 are cross-sectional views for explaining the second support portion 400 according to various embodiments.

[0066] 1 to 4, in one embodiment, in order to improve the flexibility of the first support portion 200 overlapping the folding region (FA), the first support portion 200 defines a plurality of grooves (GR) that overlap the folding region (FA) and are formed in a first direction (DR1). While FIG. 4 shows an embodiment in which each of the plurality of grooves (GR) penetrates (or penetrates entirely through) the first support portion 200, the shape of the plurality of grooves (GR) is not limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of grooves (GR) may penetrate only a portion of the first support portion 200 rather than completely penetrating the first support portion 200.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first adhesive layer 331 covers a plurality of grooves (GR) defined in the first support 200. Thus, the first adhesive layer 331 serves to protect the display unit 100 from foreign matter entering the display unit 100 through the plurality of grooves (GR).

[0068] In one embodiment, the first adhesive layer 331 includes an adhesive member 331U and a barrier layer 331L.

[0069] The adhesive member 331U includes an adhesive material and covers a plurality of grooves (GR) defined in the first support part 200. In this embodiment, the adhesive member 331U including the adhesive material may be relatively vulnerable to the inflow of the foreign matter. That is, the foreign matter may flow into the display part 100 through the adhesive member 331U and the plurality of grooves (GR).

[0070] To prevent this, a barrier layer 331L is adhered below the adhesive member 331U. In this embodiment, the barrier layer 331L covers the entire lower surface of the adhesive member 331U, thereby preventing or substantially preventing the inflow of the foreign matter. The barrier layer 331L may include an inorganic insulating material having flexible properties.

[0071] 4, the second support portion 400a includes a first sub-support portion 410a and a second sub-support portion 420a, each of which has a rectangular cross section, such that the first sub-support portion 410a presses the elastic portion 500 in the direction opposite to the second direction (DR2), and the second sub-support portion 420a presses the elastic portion 500 in the second direction (DR2).

[0072] When the display module (DM) is in an unfolded state, the width of the elastic part 500 in the second direction (DR2) may decrease, and the thickness of the elastic part 500 in the first direction (DR1) may increase in proportion to the decrease in the width of the elastic part 500 in the second direction (DR2). This allows the elastic part 500 to press (e.g., support) the lower surface of the display unit 100 overlapping the elastic part 500 in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0073] As shown in Fig. 5, unlike the second support 400a described in Fig. 4, the first sub-support 410b and the second sub-support 420b included in the second support 400b in Fig. 5 each have a tapered shape (tapered end or edge) in cross section. For example, the separation distance between the first sub-support 410b and the second sub-support 420b gradually decreases in the first direction (DR1).

[0074] Since the first sub-support 410b has a tapered cross section, the first sub-support 410b can apply pressure to the elastic portion 500 in the direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) and also in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1). Similarly, the second sub-support 420b can apply pressure to the elastic portion 500 in the second direction (DR2) and also in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0075] As a result, unlike the elastic part 500 that is pressurized by the second support part 400a described in Figure 4, the elastic part 500 that is pressurized by the second support part (400b) in Figure 5 can support the display part 100 more efficiently.

[0076] 6, unlike the second support 400a described in Fig. 4, each of the first sub-support 410c and the second sub-support 420c included in the second support 400c in Fig. 6 further includes a protrusion. For example, the first sub-support 410c further includes a first protrusion that protrudes in a direction toward the second sub-support 420c (e.g., a direction opposite to the second direction (DR2)), and the second sub-support 420c further includes a second protrusion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support 410c (e.g., the second direction (DR2)).

[0077] Since the first sub-support 410c further includes the first protrusion, the first protrusion further presses the elastic portion 500 in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1). Similarly, since the second sub-support 420c further includes the second protrusion, the second protrusion further presses the elastic portion 500 in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0078] As a result, compared to the elastic part 500 pressurized by the second support part 400a described in Figure 4, the elastic part 500 pressurized by the second support part 400c in Figure 6 can support the display part 100 more efficiently.

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, unlike the second support portion 400a described in Figure 4, each of the first sub-support portion 410b and the second sub-support portion 420b included in the second support portion 400d in Figure 7 has a tapered shape in cross section and further includes a protrusion.

[0080] For example, the separation distance between the top of the first sub-support 410d and the top of the second sub-support 420d gradually decreases as one moves in the first direction (DR1), and a first protrusion protruding in a direction toward the second sub-support 420d is formed on the bottom of the first sub-support 410d, located below the top of the first sub-support 410d, and a second protrusion protruding in a direction toward the first sub-support 410d is formed on the bottom of the second sub-support 420d, located below the top of the second sub-support 420d.

[0081] As a result, compared to the elastic part 500 pressurized by the second support part 400a described in FIG. 4, the elastic part 500 pressurized by the second support part 400d in FIG. 7 can support the display part 100 more efficiently.

[0082] 8 and 9 are diagrams illustrating a display module included in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, where Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the display module in an unfolded state, and Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the display module in a folded state.

[0083] 8 and 9, the display device 1000 includes a display module (DM'). The display module (DM') may be housed in a housing (not shown) including a case for housing the display module (DM'), a hinge member (e.g., a hinge) for guiding the folding and unfolding of the display module (DM'), and the like. In such an embodiment, the housing and the display module (DM') constitute the display device 1000 described in FIG. 1.

[0084] The display module (DM) includes a display part 100', a first supporting part 200', an adhesive part 300', a second supporting part 400', and an elastic part 500'.

[0085] 2 and 3. For example, the display unit 100′ may include a first region (A1′) corresponding to the first display region (DA1) of the display device 1000, a second region (A2′) corresponding to the second display region (DA2) of the display device 1000, and a folding region (FA′) corresponding to the third display region (DA3) of the display device 1000 (or may be partitioned into the first region (A1′) corresponding to the first display region (DA1), the second region (A2′) corresponding to the second display region (DA2) of the display device 1000, and the folding region (FA′) corresponding to the third display region (DA3) of the display device 1000), and the folding region (FA′) may be repeatedly folded or unfolded around a virtual folding axis (FX′) extending in the folding direction (DRF).

[0086] The first support part 200' is disposed below the display part 100'. The first support part 200' is substantially the same as the first support part 200 described in FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, the first support part 200' supports the display part 100' in the first region (A1'), the second region (A2'), and the folding region (FA'). The first support part 200' overlaps the folding region (FA') and defines a plurality of grooves (GR' in FIG. 10) formed in the first direction (DR1).

[0087] The adhesive portion 300′ is disposed below the first support portion 200′. The adhesive portion 300′ includes an adhesive substance. For example, the adhesive portion 300′ includes an adhesive such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). The adhesive portion 300′ provides adhesive strength to structures disposed below the first support portion 200′ (e.g., the second support portion 400′ and the elastic portion 500′), thereby attaching the structures disposed below the first support portion 200′ to the first support portion 200′.

[0088] The adhesive portion 300' includes a first adhesive portion 310', a second adhesive portion 320', and a third adhesive portion 330'.

[0089] The first adhesive portion 310' is substantially the same as the first adhesive portion 310 described in Figures 2 and 3. For example, the first adhesive portion 310' overlaps at least a portion of the first region (A1').

[0090] The second adhesive portion 320′ is substantially the same as the second adhesive portion 320 described in Figures 2 and 3. For example, the second adhesive portion 320′ overlaps at least a portion of the second area (A2′), and the second adhesive portion 320′ and the first adhesive portion 310′ are spaced apart from each other.

[0091] The third adhesive portion 330' is disposed between the first adhesive portion 310' and the second adhesive portion 320'. In one embodiment, the third adhesive portion 330' includes multiple layers. The multiple layers included in the third adhesive portion 330' are described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 10.

[0092] The second support 400′ is substantially the same as the second support 400 described in Figures 2 and 3. For example, the second support 400′ includes a first sub-support 410′ that is adhered below the first support 200′ by a first adhesive portion 310′, and a second sub-support 420′ that is adhered below the first support 200′ by a second adhesive portion 320′.

[0093] The first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420' each have a substantially flat surface. The first sub-support 410' overlaps the entire first region (A1'), and the second sub-support 420' overlaps the entire second region (A2'). As a result, the first region (A1') of the display unit 100' is supported by the first sub-support 410', and the second region (A2') of the display unit 100' is supported by the second sub-support 420'. That is, whether the display module (DM') is unfolded (see, for example, Figure 8) or folded (see, for example, Figure 9), the first region (A1') of the display unit 100' and the second region (A2') of the display unit 100' supported by the first sub-support portion 410' and the second sub-support portion 420' can have substantially flat surfaces.

[0094] In one embodiment, the first sub-support 410′ also overlaps a portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the first region (A1′) (e.g., extends over a portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the first region (A1′)). This allows the portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the first region (A1′) of the display unit 100′ to be supported by the first sub-support 410′ when the display module (DM′) is in the unfolded state (e.g., see FIG. 8 ).

[0095] In one embodiment, the second sub-support 420′ also overlaps a portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the second region (A2′) (e.g., extends over a portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the second region (A2′)). This allows the portion of the folding region (FA′) adjacent to the second region (A2′) of the display unit 100′ to be supported by the second sub-support 420′ when the display module (DM′) is in the unfolded state (e.g., see FIG. 8).

[0096] The first sub-support 410′ and the second sub-support 420′ are spaced apart from each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, in the unfolded state of the display module (DM′), the second sub-support 420′ is spaced apart from the first sub-support 410′ in the second direction (DR2). In this embodiment, in the unfolded state of the display module (DM′), the space between the first sub-support 410′ and the second sub-support 420′ is referred to as a gap (GP′).

[0097] The gap (GP') overlaps at least a portion of the folding region (FA'). When the display module (DM') is in an unfolded state (see, for example, FIG. 8 ), the area of ​​the folding region (FA') of the display unit 100' that overlaps the gap (GP') is not supported by the second support part 400'. As a result, the area of ​​the folding region (FA') that overlaps the gap (GP') may be vulnerable to external impact. For example, when the display module (DM') is in an unfolded state, a user of the display device 1000 may apply pressure, such as a touch input, to the area of ​​the folding region (FA') of the display unit 100' that overlaps the gap (GP'). In this case, damage (e.g., pressing) due to the pressure may occur in the area.

[0098] To prevent or mitigate such damage, an elastic portion 500′ containing an elastic material (e.g., rubber, PET, etc.) is attached to the first support portion 200′ by a third adhesive portion 330′. For example, the elastic portion 500′ includes a first fixing portion 510′ that is adhered to the first support portion 200′ by the third adhesive portion 330′ between the first sub-support portion 410′ and the first support portion 200′, and a second fixing portion 520′ that is adhered to the first support portion 200′ by the third adhesive portion 330′ between the second sub-support portion 420′ and the first support portion 200′ and is spaced apart from the first fixing portion 510′.

[0099] 8, in the unfolded state of the display module (DM'), the elastic portion 500' is compressed by the first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420'. For example, the elastic portion 500' includes a non-fixed portion 530' connecting the first fixed portion 510' and the second fixed portion 520' between the first fixed portion 510' and the second fixed portion 520'. In this embodiment, the non-fixed portion 530' is defined as a portion of the elastic portion 500' that is not adhered to the third adhesive portion 330' between the first fixed portion 510' and the second fixed portion 520'. As a result, in the unfolded state of the display module (DM'), the non-fixed portion 530' is compressed in the opposite direction to the second direction (DR2) by the first sub-support 410' and is compressed in the second direction (DR2) by the second sub-support 420'.

[0100] In this way, the non-fixed portion 530' is compressed by the first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420', and the rigidity of the non-fixed portion 530' is increased. As a result, when the display module DM' is in the unfolded state, the non-fixed portion 530' plays a role in supporting the area of ​​the folding area FA' of the display unit 100' that overlaps with the gap GP'.

[0101] When the display module (DM') is in a folded state (see, for example, FIG. 9), the first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420' are each spaced apart from the non-fixed portion 530'. That is, when the display module (DM') is in a folded state, the non-fixed portion 530' is not pressed by the first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420'.

[0102] In this way, since the non-fixed portion 530' is not pressurized by the first sub-support 410' and the second sub-support 420', the non-fixed portion 530' can have a relatively flexible property. When the display module (DM') is in a folded state (see, for example, FIG. 9), a part of the non-fixed portion 530' is separated from the third adhesive portion 330' and has a bent shape.

[0103] As described above, when the display module (DM') is in the unfolded state, the density of the non-fixed portion 530' pressed by each of the first sub-support portion 410' and the second sub-support portion 420' is greater than the density of the non-fixed portion 530' when the display module (DM') is in the folded state. As a result, when the display module (DM') is in the unfolded state, the non-fixed portion 530' has a relatively high rigidity to efficiently support the display unit 100', and at the same time, when the display module (DM') is in the folded state, the non-fixed portion 530' has a flexible property.

[0104] In one embodiment, in order to efficiently support the display unit 100' when the display module (DM') is in the unfolded state, the volume of the non-fixed portion 530' in the unfolded state of the display module (DM') is less than approximately 80% of the volume of the non-fixed portion 530' in the folded state of the display module (DM').

[0105] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, even when the display module (DM') is folded or unfolded, the first fixing portion 510' is in direct contact with the upper surface of the first sub-support 410', and the second fixing portion 520' is in direct contact with the upper surface of the second sub-support 420'.

[0106] Figures 10 to 13 are enlarged cross-sectional views of region B according to various embodiments of Figure 8. Figures 10 to 13 are cross-sectional views illustrating a second support portion 400' according to various embodiments.

[0107] 1, 8, 9, and 10, in one embodiment, in order to improve the flexibility of the first support portion 200' overlapping the folding region (FA'), the first support portion 200' defines a plurality of grooves (GR') formed in the first direction (DR1) so as to overlap the folding region (FA'). In this case, while FIG. 10 shows an embodiment in which each of the plurality of grooves (GR') penetrates (e.g., penetrates entirely) the first support portion 200', the shape of the plurality of grooves (GR') is not limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of grooves (GR') may not penetrate completely through the first support portion 200', but may penetrate only a portion of the first support portion 200'.

[0108] In one embodiment, the third adhesive portion 330' includes a first adhesive layer 331', a barrier layer 332', a first sub-adhesive layer 333', and a second sub-adhesive layer 334'.

[0109] The first adhesive layer 331′ covers the grooves GR′ defined by the first support part 200′ and includes an adhesive material. In this embodiment, the first adhesive layer 331′ including the adhesive material is relatively vulnerable to the inflow of foreign matter. That is, the foreign matter may pass through the first adhesive layer 331′ and enter the display part 100′ through the grooves GR′.

[0110] To prevent this, a barrier layer 332' is adhered below the first adhesive layer 331' and covers the entire lower surface of the first adhesive layer 331'. Thus, the barrier layer 332' serves to prevent the inflow of the foreign matter. The barrier layer 332' may include an inorganic insulating material having flexible properties.

[0111] The first sub-adhesive layer 333′ is adhered below the barrier layer 332′. The first sub-adhesive layer 333′ serves to adhere the first fixing portion 510′ to the barrier layer 332′. In this embodiment, the first sub-adhesive layer 333′ is disposed between the first sub-support portion 410a′ and the display portion 100′ when the display module (DMa′) in FIG. 10 is in the unfolded state.

[0112] The second sub-adhesive layer 334′ is adhered below the barrier layer 332′ and spaced apart from the first sub-adhesive layer 333′. The second sub-adhesive layer 334′ serves to adhere the second fixing portion 520′ to the barrier layer 332′. In this case, the second sub-adhesive layer 334′ is disposed between the second sub-support portion 420a′ and the display portion 100′ when the display module (DMa′) is in the unfolded state, as shown in FIG. 10 .

[0113] 10, the second support portion 400a' includes a first sub-support portion 410a' and a second sub-support portion 420a', and each of the first sub-support portion 410a' and the second sub-support portion 420a' has a rectangular cross section. As a result, the first sub-support portion 410a' presses the non-fixed portion 530' in the direction opposite to the second direction (DR2), and the second sub-support portion 420a' presses the non-fixed portion 530' in the second direction (DR2). As a result, the non-fixed portion 530' is compressed by the first sub-support portion 410a' and the second sub-support portion 420a', and by applying pressure to the underside of the barrier layer 332' between the first sub-adhesive layer 333' and the second sub-adhesive layer 334', the underside of the display portion 100' can be pressed (e.g., supported) in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0114] 11, unlike the second support portion 400a' described in Fig. 10, the first sub-support portion 410b' and the second sub-support portion 420b' included in the second support portion 400b' in Fig. 10 each have a tapered cross section. For example, the separation distance between the first sub-support portion 410b' and the second sub-support portion 420b' gradually decreases in the first direction (DR1).

[0115] Because the first sub-support 410b' has a tapered cross section, the first sub-support 410b' can pressurize the non-fixed portion 530' in the direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) and also in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1). Similarly, the second sub-support 420b' can pressurize the non-fixed portion 530' in the second direction (DR2) and also in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0116] As a result, compared to the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400a' described in Figure 10, the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400b' in Figure 11 can support the display portion 100' more efficiently.

[0117] 12, unlike the second support portion 400a' described in FIG. 10, each of the first sub-support portion 410c' and the second sub-support portion 420c' included in the second support portion 400c' in FIG. 12 further includes a protrusion. More specifically, the first sub-support portion 410c' further includes a first protrusion that protrudes in a direction toward the second sub-support portion 420c' (e.g., the opposite direction to the second direction (DR2)). For example, the second sub-support portion 420c' further includes a second protrusion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support portion 410c' (e.g., the second direction (DR2)).

[0118] Since the first sub-support 410c' further includes the first protrusion, the first protrusion further presses the non-fixed portion 530' in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1). Similarly, since the second sub-support 420c' further includes the second protrusion, the second protrusion further presses the non-fixed portion 530' in the direction opposite to the first direction (DR1).

[0119] As a result, compared to the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400a' described in Figure 10, the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400c' in Figure 12 can support the display portion 100' more efficiently.

[0120] As shown in Figure 13, unlike the second support portion 400a' described in Figure 10, each of the first sub-support portion 410d' and the second sub-support portion 420d' included in the second support portion 400d' in Figure 13 has a tapered shape in cross section and further includes a protrusion.

[0121] For example, the separation distance between the top of the first sub-support 410d' and the top of the second sub-support 420d' gradually decreases as one moves in the first direction (DR1), and a first protrusion protruding in a direction toward the second sub-support 420d' is formed on the bottom of the first sub-support 410d' located below the top of the first sub-support 410d', and a second protrusion protruding in a direction toward the first sub-support 410d' is formed on the bottom of the second sub-support 420d' located below the top of the second sub-support 420d'.

[0122] As a result, compared to the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400a' described in Figure 10, the non-fixed portion 530' pressurized by the second support portion 400d' in Figure 13 can support the display portion 100' more efficiently.

[0123] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0124] The present invention can be applied to display modules and electronic devices including the same, such as smartphones, smart pads, smart watches, tablet PCs, vehicle navigation systems, televisions, and computer monitors. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1000: Display device DM, DM′: Display module A1, A1′: First area A2, A2′: Second area FA, FA ′: folding region 100, 100′: Display section 200, 200′: First support 300, 300′: Adhesive part 400, 400′: Second support 500, 500′: Elastic section

Claims

1. a display unit including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region, and a folding region between the first region and the second region; a first support portion disposed below the display portion and supporting the display portion in the first region, the second region, and the bending region; a second support portion including a first sub-support portion disposed below the first support portion and supporting the first region of the display portion, and a second sub-support portion supporting the second region of the display portion and spaced apart from the first sub-support portion; a display module including an elastic portion disposed between the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion, and which supports the bending region of the display portion by being compressed by each of the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state.

2. The display module according to claim 1 , wherein when the display unit is in a folded state, the first sub-support and the second sub-support are each spaced apart from the elastic portion.

3. a first adhesive portion disposed between the first sub-support portion and the first support portion and adhesively connecting the first sub-support portion and the first support portion; a second adhesive portion disposed between the second sub-support portion and the first support portion and adhesively connecting the second sub-support portion and the first support portion; The display module according to claim 1 , further comprising a third adhesive portion disposed between the first adhesive portion and the second adhesive portion, and bonding the first support portion and the elastic portion to each other.

4. The third adhesive portion is a first adhesive layer including an adhesive member disposed below the first support and overlapping the entire bend region, and a barrier layer disposed below the adhesive member and overlapping the entire bend region; 4. The display module according to claim 3, further comprising a second adhesive layer disposed below the barrier layer and adhering the barrier layer and the elastic portion to each other.

5. The display module according to claim 1 , wherein the first support portion is formed with a plurality of grooves extending in a thickness direction of the display portion so as to overlap the bending region.

6. the first sub-support portion further includes a first protrusion portion that protrudes toward the second sub-support portion and presses a lower surface of the elastic portion when the display portion is in the unfolded state, The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that the second sub-support portion further includes a second protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and presses against the lower surface of the elastic portion.

7. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the unfolded state of the display unit, the separation distance between the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion in the cross section gradually decreases as the distance increases from the bottom surface of the display unit.

8. When the display unit is in an unfolded state, the first sub-support portion overlaps the entire first region of the display unit, The display module according to claim 1 , wherein the second sub-supporting portion overlaps the entire second region of the display unit when the display unit is in an unfolded state.

9. 2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein the density of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is greater than the density of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

10. 2. The display module according to claim 1, wherein the volume of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is 80% or less of the volume of the elastic portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

11. a display unit including a first region, a second region spaced apart from the first region, and a folding region between the first region and the second region; a first support portion disposed below the display portion and supporting the display portion in the first region, the second region, and the bending region; a second support portion including a first sub-support portion disposed below the first support portion and supporting the first region of the display portion, and a second sub-support portion supporting the second region of the display portion and spaced apart from the first sub-support portion; A display module characterized by comprising: a first fixed portion adhered to the first support portion between the first sub-support portion and the first support portion; a second fixed portion adhered to the first support portion between the second sub-support portion and the first support portion; and an elastic portion that connects the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion and includes a non-fixed portion that is compressed by each of the first sub-support portion and the second sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state, thereby supporting the folding region of the display portion.

12. The display module according to claim 11 , wherein the first support portion has a plurality of grooves formed therein, the grooves overlapping the bending region and extending in a thickness direction of the display portion.

13. the first sub-support portion further includes a first protrusion portion that protrudes toward the second sub-support portion and presses a lower surface of the elastic portion when the display portion is in the unfolded state, The display module according to claim 11, wherein the second sub-support portion further includes a second protrusion portion that protrudes in a direction toward the first sub-support portion when the display portion is in an unfolded state and presses against the lower surface of the elastic portion.

14. 12. The display module of claim 11, wherein, in the unfolded state of the display unit, a separation distance between the first sub-support and the second sub-support in a cross section gradually decreases as the distance increases from the bottom surface of the display unit.

15. When the display unit is in an unfolded state, the first sub-support portion overlaps the entire first region of the display unit, The display module according to claim 11 , wherein the second sub-supporting portion overlaps the entire second region of the display unit when the display unit is in an unfolded state.

16. The display module according to claim 11 , wherein the density of the non-fixed portions when the display unit is in the unfolded state is greater than the density of the non-fixed portions when the display unit is in the folded state.

17. 12. The display module according to claim 11, wherein the volume of the non-fixed portion when the display unit is in the unfolded state is 80% or less of the volume of the non-fixed portion when the display unit is in the folded state.

18. the first fixing portion is in direct contact with an upper surface of the first sub-support portion; The display module according to claim 11 , wherein the second fixing portion is in direct contact with an upper surface of the second sub-support portion.

19. The display module according to claim 11 , wherein when the display unit is in a folded state, the first sub-support and the second sub-support are spaced apart from the non-fixed portion.

20. a first adhesive layer disposed below the first support and overlapping the entire bend region; a barrier layer disposed below the first adhesive layer and overlying the entire bend region; 12. The display module of claim 11, further comprising: a first sub-adhesive layer disposed below the barrier layer and adhering the barrier layer and the first fixing portion to each other; and a second sub-adhesive layer disposed below the barrier layer and adhering the barrier layer and the second fixing portion to each other and spaced apart from the first sub-adhesive layer.

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