Display device

Abstract

To provide a display device.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a display device in which a bending area having a bending axis extending in a first direction and a non-bending area adjacent to the bending area are defined, the display device including a display module having an upper surface which is a display surface and a lower surface which is a non-display surface, a window disposed on the upper surface of the display module, and a housing in which the display module and the window are accommodated, the housing may include a first housing disposed to surround a periphery of the display module, the first housing having a recessed portion recessed inward, an edge of the window being seated in the recessed portion, and a second housing separated from the first housing and disposed along a lower surface of the display module, the second housing being configured to slide relative to the display module as the display module is folded.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to devices, and more particularly to display devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, mobility-based electronic devices have been widely used. As mobile electronic devices, tablet PCs are widely used in addition to small electronic devices such as mobile phones.

[0003] Such mobile electronic devices include display panels to provide users with visual information, such as images or videos, to support various functions. Recently, as other components for driving the display panel have become smaller, the proportion of the display panel in the electronic device has gradually increased. Therefore, structures that can be bent at a predetermined angle from a flat state have also been developed. Such display panels must be flexible so that they can be bent or folded, and flexible display devices are required to be lightweight and thin.

[0004] The above-mentioned background art is technical information that the inventor possessed in order to derive the present invention or that he acquired in the process of deriving the present invention, and it cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known art that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of the present invention. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent Publication No. 2022-0065575 (KR10-2022-0065575A) [Patent Document 2] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 116322174 (CN116322174A) [Patent Document 3] Chinese Patent No. 113589564 (CN113589564B) [Patent Document 4] Korean Patent Publication No. 2020-0074849 (KR10-2020-0074849A) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] When a display device including a foldable display panel disposed inside a housing is folded, the edge of the display panel may slip and change its position. Therefore, the housing must have a clearance space to accommodate the amount of slip of the edge of the display panel, which increases the non-display area of ​​the display panel and reduces the display area.

[0007] In order to solve many problems, including those mentioned above, an object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a display device that further increases the display area of ​​the display panel, is lightweight, and has improved durability.

[0008] However, such a problem is merely an example, and the problem to be solved by the present invention is not limited to this. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display device is disclosed in which a folding region having a folding axis extending in a first direction and a non-folding region adjacent to the folding region are defined, the display device comprising: a display module having an upper surface which is a display surface and a lower surface which is a non-display surface; a window disposed on the upper surface of the display module; and a housing in which the display module and the window are housed; the housing comprising a first housing disposed to surround the display module and having a recessed portion recessed inward, the periphery of the window being placed in the recessed portion; and a second housing separated from the first housing and disposed on the lower surface of the display module, which slides relative to the display module as the display module is folded.

[0010] In one embodiment, a width of the window in a second direction intersecting the first direction may be greater than a width of the display module in the second direction.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first housing may have an open top of a window placed in the recess.

[0012] In one embodiment, the periphery of the window may be adhered and fixed onto the recessed portion of the first housing by an adhesive member, and the neutral folding surface may be located at the window.

[0013] In one embodiment, the adhesive member may be disposed to surround the lower surface and periphery of the window.

[0014] In one embodiment, when the display device is bent, the layer of the display module located below the window may slip toward the bending axis, and the layer of the display module located above the window may slip away from the bending axis.

[0015] In one embodiment, the thickness of the window in the folded region is less than the thickness of the window in the unfolded region.

[0016] In one embodiment, the thickness of the window may gradually increase in the bending region toward the non-bending region.

[0017] In one embodiment, the display device further includes a window flattening layer disposed on the window, and the window flattening layer may have a thickness that makes the sum of the thickness of the window flattening layer and the thickness of the window constant.

[0018] In one embodiment, the thickness of the portion of the window that is placed in the recess may be greater than the thickness of the other portion of the window that is not placed in the recess.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first housing may include a first portion and a second portion protruding from an upper surface of the first portion to form the recess.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a display device having a bending region with a bending axis extending in a first direction and a non-bending region adjacent to the bending region is defined, and includes: a display module that can be bent around the bending axis; a window arranged on an upper surface, which is the display surface of the display module; and a housing that accommodates the display module and the window; wherein the housing may include a first housing arranged to surround the display module and having a groove that opens from bottom to top, and a second housing arranged on the lower surface of the display module and having an elastic portion that protrudes upward to be inserted into the groove.

[0021] In one embodiment, the elastic portion may extend into the groove and bend again in a direction toward the bending region to form an inverted U-shape.

[0022] In one embodiment, the elastic portions may be arranged on both sides of the second housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction in a plan view.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, when the display device is folded and unfolded, the elastic portion may reciprocate elastically in the second direction within the groove, and the second housing may reciprocate in the second direction.

[0024] In an embodiment, the second housing may be adhered and fixed to the lower surface of the display module.

[0025] In one embodiment, the elastic portion can extend in the same direction as the extension direction of the bending axis in a plan view.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the elastic portion may be provided in a plurality of pieces spaced apart from one another along the same direction as the extension direction of the bending axis in a plan view.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the first housing further includes a hook portion protruding within the groove to be bent in a direction opposite to a bending direction of the elastic portion, and the hook portion may be fastened to the elastic portion.

[0028] In one embodiment, the periphery of the window may be placed and glued onto the first housing.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first housing may have an open top for the window placed on the first housing.

[0030] In one embodiment, the elastic portion may include a leaf spring.

[0031] Other aspects, features, and advantages beyond those described above will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, the claims, and the drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a display device that has an increased display area of ​​a display panel, is lighter in weight, and has improved durability.

[0033] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and further effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3]3 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention taken along line III-III' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is an enlarged view of a part of the display device of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a cover window according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 5 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] 5 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] 5 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a plan view schematically illustrating a display panel included in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 2 is an equivalent circuit diagram illustrating a pixel circuit of a display panel and a display element connected to the pixel circuit; FIG. [Figure 10] 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross section taken along line XX' in FIG. 8. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] The present invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The advantages and features of the present invention, and methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and can be embodied in various forms.

[0036] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0037] In the following embodiments, terms such as first and second are used to distinguish one component from another, without any limiting meaning.

[0038] In the following embodiments, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0039] In the following embodiments, terms such as "comprise" or "have" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more different features or components may be added.

[0040] In the following embodiments, when a part such as a film, region, or component is said to be on or above another part, this includes not only the case where it is directly on top of the other part, but also the case where another film, region, component, etc. is interposed between them.

[0041] In the following embodiments, when a film, region, component, etc. is said to be connected, it includes cases where the film, region, component, etc. is directly connected and / or cases where the film, region, component, etc. is indirectly connected by interposing another film, region, component, etc. Furthermore, when a film, region, component, etc. is said to be electrically connected, it includes cases where the film, region, component, etc. is directly electrically connected and / or cases where the film, region, component, etc. is indirectly electrically connected by interposing another film, region, component, etc.

[0042] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for the sake of convenience. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for the sake of convenience, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown in the drawings.

[0043] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" refers to A, B, or A and B. Also, "at least one of A and B" refers to A, B, or A and B.

[0044] In the following embodiments, the term "extending in a first or second direction" means not only extending in a straight line, but also extending in a zigzag or curved line along the first or second direction.

[0045] In the following embodiments, "plan view" means a view of the target portion from the right. In the following embodiments, "cross-sectional view" means a view of the target portion cut vertically from the side. In the following embodiments, when a first component is "overlapping" a second component, it means that the first component is located above or below the second component.

[0046] In the following embodiments, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes on a Cartesian coordinate system, but may be interpreted in a broader sense including this. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may indicate different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0047] If an embodiment can be implemented differently, the order of certain steps may be performed differently than described. For example, two steps described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously or may be performed in the reverse order from that described.

[0048] 1 and 2 are perspective views schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the display device 1 in an unfolded state, and Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the display device 1 in a folded state.

[0049] 1 and 2, the display device 1 is a device for displaying moving images and still images, and can be used as a display screen for a variety of products, including portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), mobile communication terminals, electronic organizers, electronic books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation systems, and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs), as well as televisions, notebook computers, monitors, billboards, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The display device 1 can also be used in wearable devices, such as smart watches, watch phones, eyeglass displays, and head-mounted displays (HMDs). In addition, the display device 1 can be used as a center information display (CID) placed on the dashboard, center fascia, or dashboard of a vehicle, a room mirror display that replaces the side mirror of a vehicle, and a rear seat entertainment display placed on the back of the front seats of a vehicle.

[0050] The display device 1 may include a housing HS, a display panel 10 and a cover window 20 .

[0051] The housing HS may include an inner surface that defines an accommodation space. The housing HS may include a material (substance) having relatively high rigidity. For example, the housing HS may include multiple frames and / or plates including glass, plastic, or metal, or a combination thereof. The housing HS may stably protect the components of the display device 1 accommodated in the internal space from external impact.

[0052] The display panel 10 may display an image. The display panel 10 may include a display area DA, a component area CA, and a peripheral area PA. In one embodiment, the display area DA may be a main display area. A plurality of display elements may be arranged in the display area DA, and the plurality of display elements may emit light. Thus, the display panel 10 may display an image through the light emitted from the plurality of display elements. In one embodiment, the display elements may be organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) including an organic light emitting layer. Alternatively, the display elements may be light emitting diodes (LEDs). The size of the LEDs may be micro- or nano-scale. For example, the LEDs may be micro LEDs. Alternatively, the LEDs may be nanorod LEDs. The nanorod LEDs may include gallium nitride (GaN). In one embodiment, a color conversion layer may be disposed on the nanorod LEDs. The color conversion layer may include quantum dots. Alternatively, the display element may be a quantum dot light emitting diode including a quantum dot light emitting layer, or an inorganic light emitting diode including an inorganic semiconductor.

[0053] The component area CA is an area for displaying an image and may be an area overlapping with components for adding various functions. Multiple display elements may be arranged in the component area CA. The component area CA may be at least partially surrounded by the display area DA. In one embodiment, the component area CA may be entirely surrounded by the display area DA. In one embodiment, the component area CA may include a first component area CA1 and a second component area CA2. In some embodiments, one of the first component area CA1 and the second component area CA2 may be omitted.

[0054] The peripheral area PA may be an area that at least partially surrounds the display area DA. For example, the peripheral area PA may be disposed so as to completely surround the periphery of the display area DA in a plan view. The peripheral area PA may be, for example, an area that does not display an image as a non-display area, and in which various components such as a driver for driving the display panel and a printed circuit board are disposed.

[0055] The cover window 20 may protect the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may be combined with the housing HS to form the exterior of the display device 1. The cover window 20 may include an insulating panel. For example, the cover window 20 may be made of glass, plastic, or a combination thereof. The cover window 20 may define the front surface of the display device 1.

[0056] The cover window 20 may include an optically transparent region. Thus, the display panel 10 may display an image through the optically transparent transparent region of the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the transparent region may be surrounded by a bezel region, and the shape of the transparent region may be defined by the bezel region. The light transmittance of the bezel region may be lower than that of the transparent region. In one embodiment, the bezel region may include an opaque material that blocks light. In one embodiment, the bezel region may have a predetermined color. The bezel region may be formed by a bezel layer provided separately from the transparent substrate that forms the light-transmitting region, or may be formed by an ink layer that is inserted into or colored on the transparent substrate.

[0057] 1 and 2, the display device 1 may include a first surface S1 and a second surface S2 opposite the first surface S1. The display device 1 may display an image on the first surface S1. In one embodiment, the first surface S1 may be the front or top surface of the display device 1. The second surface S2 may be the back or bottom surface of the display device 1. In some embodiments, the display device 1 may also display an image on the second surface S2.

[0058] The display device 1 can be folded around a folding axis FAX that intersects with the first surface S1. In one embodiment, the display device 1 can be folded so that a portion of the first surface S1 and another portion of the first surface S1 face each other. In another embodiment, the display device 1 can be folded so that a portion of the second surface S2 and another portion of the second surface S2 face each other. For convenience of explanation, the following description will focus on the case where the display device 1 is folded so that a portion of the first surface S1 and another portion of the first surface S1 face each other.

[0059] In one embodiment, the bending axis FAX extends along a first direction. In another embodiment, the bending axis FAX extends along a second direction that intersects the first direction. In one embodiment, the first direction and the second direction form an acute angle. In another embodiment, the first direction and the second direction form a right angle or an obtuse angle. The following detailed description focuses on the case where the first direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) and the second direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction) are orthogonal to each other.

[0060] 1 and 2 illustrate only one folding axis FAX, in other embodiments, the display device 1 may include multiple folding axes FAX. Also, although the folding axis FAX is illustrated as extending in a first direction (e.g., the x-direction or x-direction) in FIGS. 1 and 2, in other embodiments, the folding axis FAX extends in a second direction (e.g., the y-direction or y-direction) or in a direction intersecting the first direction (e.g., the x-direction or x-direction) and the second direction (e.g., the y-direction or y-direction).

[0061] The display device 1 may include a housing HS, a display panel 10, and a cover window 20. The display panel 10 may include a display area DA and a component area CA. In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2 arranged on either side of a folding axis FAX. The display panel 10 may include a folding area FA and a non-folding area NFA. The folding area FA may be a portion of the first display area DA1 adjacent to the folding axis FAX and a portion of the second display area DA2 adjacent to the folding axis FAX. The folding area FA may be folded around the folding axis FAX. The folding area FA may be interposed between the non-folding areas NFA. Unlike FIG. 1, there may be one or more folding areas FA. In one embodiment of the present invention, the non-foldable area is referred to as the non-foldable area NFA, but this is for convenience of explanation, and the term "non-foldable" can include not only cases where the area is inflexible and rigid, but also cases where the area is flexible but has less flexibility than the folding area, and cases where the area is flexible but does not fold.

[0062] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and may correspond to a cross section taken along line III-III' in FIG.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 3, the display device 1 may include a housing HS, a display panel 10, a cover window 20, a film layer 30, a support layer 40, a plate 50, a cushion layer 60, an adhesive layer AL, and a component COMP.

[0064] The housing HS may include an inner surface HSIS that defines the storage space AS. The inner surface HSIS of the housing HS is not a surface that forms the exterior of the display device 1. In one embodiment, the housing HS may have a bottom surface HSS1 and an inner side surface HSS2. The bottom surface HSS1 and the inner side surface HSS2 are not surfaces that form the exterior of the display device 1. The display panel 10, the film layer 30, the support layer 40, the plate 50, the cushion layer 60, the adhesive layer AL, and the component COMP may face the inner surface HSIS of the housing HS.

[0065] Components of the display device 1 may be disposed in the accommodation space AS. In one embodiment, the display panel 10, the film layer 30, the support layer 40, the plate 50, the cushion layer 60, the adhesive layer AL, and the component COMP may be disposed in the accommodation space AS. In one embodiment, the housing HS may include a hinge region HG that overlaps with the folding axis FAX. Thus, the housing HS may be folded around the folding axis FAX.

[0066] The display panel 10 may be disposed below the cover window 20. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may be disposed in the accommodation space AS. Thus, the housing HS may cover the display panel 10. The display panel 10 may include a display area DA and a component area CA. In one embodiment, the component area CA may overlap the component COMP. In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2 disposed on either side of a folding axis FAX. The display panel 10 may also include a folding area FA and a non-folding area NFA. The folding area FA may be a portion of the first display area DA1 adjacent to the folding axis FAX and a portion of the second display area DA2 adjacent to the folding axis FAX. The folding area FA may be interposed between the non-folding areas NFA.

[0067] The cover window 20 may be disposed on the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the cover window 20 may be disposed on top of the housing HS. Although not shown, in one embodiment, the cover window 20 may be connected to the housing HS. The cover window 20 may include a window (a plate forming the main body of the cover window) 21, a window planarization layer 22, a window adhesive layer 23, an opaque layer 24, a window protection layer 25, and a hard coating layer 26.

[0068] In one embodiment, window 21 may include Ultra Thin Glass.

[0069] The window planarization layer 22 may be disposed on the window 21 to planarize a surface, for example, an upper surface, of the window 21. The window planarization layer 22 may be disposed between the window 21 and the window protection layer 25. In one embodiment, the window planarization layer 22 may include a polymer resin. In other embodiments, the window planarization layer 22 may be omitted.

[0070] The window protection layer 25 protects the window 21 and may prevent or reduce scratches on the upper surface of the window 21. The window protection layer 25 may be disposed on the window 21. In one embodiment, the window protection layer 25 may include a polymer resin. In another embodiment, the window protection layer 25 may include an inorganic material.

[0071] The window adhesive layer 23 may be disposed between the window protection layer 25 and the window planarization layer 22. The window adhesive layer 23 may adhere the window protection layer 25 onto the window planarization layer 22. In one embodiment, the window adhesive layer 23 may be a pressure sensitive adhesive. In another embodiment, the window adhesive layer 23 may be an optically clear adhesive.

[0072] The opaque layer 24 may be disposed between the window adhesive layer 23 and the window protection layer 25. In some embodiments, the opaque layer 24 may be part of the window protection layer 25. The opaque layer 24 may include an opaque material so that the wiring, circuits, etc. of the display panel 10 cannot be seen from the outside. Thus, the opaque layer 24 may form a bezel region of the cover window 20.

[0073] The hard coating layer 26 may be disposed on the window protection layer 25. The hard coating layer 26 may be the outermost layer of the cover window 20. The hard coating layer 26 may be the outermost layer of the display device 1. The hard coating layer 26 is the layer that a user directly touches and may provide a smooth and soft touch. In one embodiment, the hard coating layer 26 may include a polymer resin. In another embodiment, the hard coating layer 26 may include an inorganic material.

[0074] The film layer 30 may be disposed below the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may be disposed between the cover window 20 and the film layer 30. The film layer 30 may protect the display panel 10 from external impact. In one embodiment, the film layer 30 may include a polymeric material. For example, the film layer 30 may include at least one of polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, and cellulose acetate propionate. In another embodiment, the film layer 30 may include an inorganic material.

[0075] The support layer 40 may be disposed below the film layer 30. In one embodiment, the film layer 30 may be disposed between the display panel 10 and the support layer 40. The support layer 40 may be disposed below the display panel 10 to support the display panel 10. The support layer 40 may include a polymer material. The support layer 40 may be provided as a layer of a polymer resin such as polyethylene terephthalate or polyimide.

[0076] The plate 50 may be disposed below the support layer 40. In one embodiment, the support layer 40 may be disposed between the film layer 30 and the plate 50. The plate 50 may be disposed below the support layer 40 to support the display panel 10. This reduces the degree to which the center of the display panel 10 sags in the -z direction due to its weight, making it less likely to be damaged even when an external impact is applied.

[0077] The plate 50 may include a folding pattern 50P. The folding pattern 50P may change in shape or length when the display device 1 is folded. For example, the folding pattern 50P may be an opening provided in the plate 50. In another embodiment, the folding pattern 50P may have a concave and convex shape. In yet another embodiment, the folding pattern 50P may include links rotatably connected to each other.

[0078] In one embodiment, when the display device 1 is folded, the folding pattern 50P may be folded around the folding axis FAX. In one embodiment, the folding pattern 50P may be provided symmetrically on both sides around the folding axis FAX. In one embodiment, the plate 50 may have a flat upper surface in an area not provided with the folding pattern 50P.

[0079] Plate 50 may include at least one of metal, glass, and plastic. In one embodiment, plate 50 may include polyurethane. In another embodiment, plate 50 may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).

[0080] Although not shown in FIG. 3 , a digitizer (not shown) may be interposed between the plate 50 and the cushion layer 60. The digitizer may include a body layer and / or a pattern layer. The digitizer may sense a signal input from an external electronic pen or the like through the pattern layer. In particular, the digitizer may sense the strength, direction, etc. of the signal input from the electronic pen or the like. In such a case, the digitizer may include a first digitizer and a second digitizer spaced apart from each other based on the folding axis FAX. Therefore, damage to the digitizer when the display device 1 is folded may be prevented or reduced.

[0081] The cushioning layer 60 may be disposed below the plate 50. The cushioning layer 60 may prevent or reduce damage to the display device 1 from an external impact. Specifically, in order for the display device 1 to be folded around the folding axis FAX, the thickness (in the z-axis direction) of the components included in the display device 1 must be thin. That is, the thickness (in the z-axis direction) of the display panel 10 must be thin. However, if the thickness (in the z-axis direction) of the display panel 10 is thin, the display panel 10 may be easily damaged by an external impact. The cushioning layer 60 may prevent or reduce damage to the display panel 10 from an external impact by absorbing the external impact applied to the display panel 10.

[0082] In one embodiment, the cushioning layer 60 may include a viscoelastic material. Specifically, the cushioning layer 60 may include at least one of polyurethane, polyacrylate, and polyethylene. For example, the cushioning layer 60 may include at least one of a urethane-based resin, an acrylate-based resin, and an ethylene-based resin. The cushioning layer 60 may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure and may be made of a foam material similar to sponge. In one embodiment, the cushioning layer 60 may further include a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In one embodiment, the cushioning layer 60 may include a first portion 60A and a second portion 60B spaced apart from each other based on the folding axis FAX.

[0083] The adhesive layer AL may be disposed between the first and second components of the display device 1. The adhesive layer AL may bond the first and second components to each other. In one embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In another embodiment, the adhesive layer AL may be an optically clear adhesive, such as an optically clear pressure-sensitive adhesive. The adhesive layer AL may be disposed between the cover window 20 and the display panel 10 to bond the cover window 20 and the display panel 10 together. Although not shown, it will be understood that another adhesive layer may be interposed between the other two layers to bond the two layers together.

[0084] The support layer 40, the plate 50, and the cushion layer 60 may each have a through-hole overlapping the component area CA. In such a case, the acoustic transmittance and / or light transmittance from the outside to the component COMP may be increased. In another embodiment, at least one of the support layer 40, the plate 50, and the cushion layer 60 does not have a through-hole overlapping the component area CA. In one embodiment, the film layer 30 may be disposed continuously across the display area DA and the component area CA. In such a case, the film layer 30 can protect the display panel 10 over the entire area. In another embodiment, the film layer 30 may have a through-hole at least partially overlapping the component area CA.

[0085] The component COMP may be disposed between the housing HS and the display panel 10. In one embodiment, the component COMP may be attached to the housing HS. In another embodiment, the component COMP may be disposed in the accommodation space AS. The component COMP may include an electronic module. For example, the electronic module may include (1) a sensor that receives and uses light, such as an infrared sensor; (2) a camera that receives light and captures an image; (3) a sensor that outputs and senses light or sound to measure distance or recognize fingerprints, etc.; (4) a small lamp that outputs light; and / or (5) a speaker that outputs sound. In the case of an electronic module that uses light, light in various wavelength bands, such as visible light, infrared light, and / or ultraviolet light, may be used.

[0086] In one embodiment, the component COMP may include a light emitting module and a light receiving module, which may be an integrated structure or may be physically separated structures, with the pair of light emitting module and light receiving module constituting one component COMP.

[0087] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is an enlarged view of a portion of the display device of Figure 3. Specifically, Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a portion on the right side of Figure 3, e.g., the +y direction side.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, as described above, the housing HS may accommodate the cover window 20, the display panel 10, the film layer 30, the support layer 40, the plate 50, and the cushion layer 60.

[0089] The cover window 20 can protect the display panel 10. The cover window 20 can be disposed so as to cover not only the display area DA but also the peripheral area PA.

[0090] In one embodiment, the display panel 10, the film layer 30, the support layer 40, the plate 50, and the cushion layer 60 may be defined as a display module DM. In other words, the display module DM may include the display panel 10, the film layer 30, the support layer 40, the plate 50, and the cushion layer 60. The display module DM may have a first surface (e.g., a surface in the +z direction) that is a display surface, and a second surface (e.g., a surface in the -z direction) that faces the first surface. In the drawings, the first surface of the display module DM may correspond to the top surface, and the second surface may correspond to the bottom surface.

[0091] The display panel 10 may be disposed below the cover window 20. In one embodiment, a portion of the display panel 10 may be bent. For example, the display panel 10 may be bent at one of both sides based on the bending axis FAX. FIG. 4 illustrates the display panel 10 bent at the right side (+y direction) based on the bending axis FAX. Here, the display panel 10 may be bent at the peripheral region PA, and the bent portion of the display panel 10 may be defined as the bending region. The display panel 10 may be bent at the bending region, and one portion of the display panel 10 may be disposed opposite another portion, and the other portion of the display panel 10 may be disposed below the other portion of the display panel 10. In such a case, a plate 50 and a cushion layer 60 may be disposed between one portion of the display panel 10 and the other portion. A pad portion may be disposed on the other portion of the display panel 10, and the pad portion may be connected to a printed circuit board.

[0092] A bending protection layer BPL may be disposed in a bending region where the display panel 10 is bent to prevent cracks in the display panel 10. The bending protection layer BPL may include a polymer resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyimide (PI). The bending protection layer BPL may be disposed to cover the bending region of the display panel 10.

[0093] A film layer 30 may be disposed below the display panel 10. The film layer 30 is not disposed in the bending region of the display panel 10. That is, the film layer 30 has openings that correspond to the bending regions of the display panel 10. As a result, the film layer 30 may be disposed on one part of the display panel 10 and on the other part thereof, with the plate 50 and the cushion layer 60 positioned therebetween.

[0094] The housing HS can accommodate the cover window 20 and the display module DM. The housing HS can be connected and fixed to another module, such as a case (not shown). In one embodiment, the housing HS can include a first housing HS1 and a second housing HS2.

[0095] The first housing HS1 may be disposed around the display module DM. In one embodiment, the first housing HS1 extends along the periphery of the display module DM and may shield the sides of the display module DM. That is, the first housing HS1 may be disposed so as to surround the peripheral portion along the entire periphery of the display module DM in a plan view.

[0096] In this regard, in one embodiment, the first housing HS1 may have a recessed portion RP recessed inward. The recessed portion RP may be recessed inwardly in the first housing HS1. Meanwhile, the first housing HS1 may include a first portion HS11 and a second portion HS12. The first portion HS11 may be disposed along the periphery of the display module DM. For example, the first portion HS11 may be disposed to surround the side of the display module DM, particularly the display panel 10. The second portion HS12 may protrude from an upper surface of the first portion HS11. The second portion HS12 may protrude upward from an outer portion of the upper surface of the first portion HS11, thereby forming a recessed portion RP in an inner portion of the upper surface of the first portion HS11.

[0097] The peripheral portion of the cover window 20, for example, the peripheral portion of the window 21, may be placed and attached to the recessed portion RP. That is, the peripheral portion of the cover window 20, for example, the peripheral portion of the window 21, may be placed on the upper surface of the first portion HS11, and the recessed portion RP may open the upper portion of the placed cover window 20. Here, the cover window 20 may be formed larger than the display module DM. For example, the width of the cover window 20, for example, the width of the window 21 in the second direction (y direction), may be larger than the width of the display module DM in the second direction. In one embodiment, the peripheral portion of the cover window 20, for example, the peripheral portion of the window 21, may be adhered and fixed to the recessed portion RP by an adhesive member AD. The adhesive member AD may be disposed between the lower surface of the window 21 and the upper surface of the first portion HS11.

[0098] Since the peripheral edge of the window 21 is fixed on the recessed portion RP, the neutral folding plane, which is a plane that does not slip when the display device 1 is folded, can be located on the window 21.

[0099] The second housing HS2 may be disposed on the lower surface of the display module DM. The second housing HS2 may be disposed to cover the lower surface of the display module DM and may be connected and fixed to another module such as a case (not shown). In one embodiment, the second housing HS2 may be provided as a separate member separated from the first housing HS1. This allows the second housing HS2 to slide relative to the lower surface of the display module DM as the display device 1 is folded.

[0100] Specifically, as described above, since the periphery of the window 21 is fixed on the recess RP, the folding neutral plane may be located at the window 21. When the display device 1 is folded around the folding axis FAX so that the display surfaces face each other, the layer located below the window 21, which is the folding neutral plane, may slip in the direction toward the folding axis FAX (-y direction), and the layer located above the window 21, which is the folding neutral plane, may slip in the direction opposite to the direction toward the folding axis FAX (+y direction). In this case, the degree of slip of each layer may depend on the distance of each layer from the folding neutral plane. For example, the cushion layer 60, which is further away from the folding neutral plane, may slip more than the display panel 10, which is further away. In this case, because the second housing HS2 is fixed to the other modules, slipping of the display module DM may cause the display module DM and the second housing HS2 to slide relative to each other.

[0101] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, because the window 21 is adhered and fixed to the recess RP, the window 21 may be located on the mid-plane of bending and may not slip. As a result, the second portion HS12 of the first housing HS1 may be disposed closer to the periphery of the window 21, thereby reducing the area of ​​the non-display area. As a comparative example, if the mid-plane of bending is not the window 21, for example, if the bottom surface of the display module DM is set as the mid-plane of bending, the window 21 may slip in a direction away from the bending axis FAX (e.g., in the +y direction), and therefore the second portion HS12 must be disposed at a predetermined margin distance from the periphery of the window 21. This may increase the area of ​​the non-display area.

[0102] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the window 21 is set as the neutral plane for bending, a lower layer of the display module DM, for example, the cushion layer 60, may slip, but since the second housing HS2 is not attached to the display module DM, the display module DM may slide on the second housing HS2 without any constraint. Therefore, even if the display module DM slips when the display device 1 is bent, defects such as creases may be prevented.

[0103] 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a cover window according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing an enlarged view of the cover window 20 of FIG.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 5 , in one embodiment, the thickness of the window 21 may vary. In one embodiment, the thickness of the window 21 in the folding region FA is smaller than the thickness of the window 21 in the non-folding region NFA. For example, the window 21 in the folding region FA has a constant first thickness, and the window 21 in the non-folding region NFA has a constant second thickness, the first thickness being smaller than the second thickness. Here, the non-folding region NFA adjacent to the folding region FA is an inflection region (a region where the height increases or decreases so that the top surface forms a smooth curve with an inflection point in the laminate cross section), and the thickness of the window 21 may gradually increase from the first thickness to the second thickness. In this way, since the thickness of the window 21 in the folding region FA is smaller than the thickness of the window 21 in the non-folding region NFA, folding of the window 21 may be facilitated.

[0105] A window flattening layer 22 may be disposed on the top of the window 21. In one embodiment, the window flattening layer 22 may have a thickness that varies so that the sum of the thickness of the window flattening layer 22 and the thickness of the window 21 is constant. That is, the thickness of the window flattening layer 22 in the folding region FA may be greater than the thickness of the window flattening layer 22 in the non-folding region NFA. For example, the window flattening layer 22 in the folding region FA may have a constant third thickness, and the window flattening layer 22 in the non-folding region NFA may have a constant fourth thickness, with the third thickness being greater than the fourth thickness. Here, the non-folding region NFA adjacent to the folding region FA is an inflection region, and the thickness of the window flattening layer 22 may gradually decrease from the third thickness to the fourth thickness. By varying the thickness of the window flattening layer 22 in this way, the top of the window 21 may be flattened, preventing the optical path from varying even when the thickness of the window 21 varies.

[0106] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is a view similar to Figure 4. Since the display device according to this embodiment is similar to the display device described above, only the differences will be described below.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 6 , in one embodiment, the thickness of a portion of the window 21 that fits into the recessed portion RP is greater than the thickness of another portion of the window 21 that does not fit into the recessed portion RP. Specifically, as described above, the window 21 may have a second thickness in the non-folding region NFA. Here, the window 21 may fit into the recessed portion RP of the first housing HS1 in the peripheral region PA, as described above. In one embodiment, the portion of the window 21 that fits into the recessed portion RP may have a fifth thickness, which may be greater than the second thickness. The portion of the window 21 that has the fifth thickness may be a peripheral portion of the window 21. Furthermore, the portion of the window 21 that fits into the recessed portion RP may protrude downward, and may have a fifth thickness that is greater than the second thickness. That is, in the peripheral region PA, the upper surface of the window 21 may have a uniform flat surface, and the lower surface of the window 21 may have a protruding surface. In this way, the thickness of the window 21 at the portion that rests on the recess RP is greater than the thickness of the portion that does not rest on the recess RP, thereby increasing the strength of the outer periphery of the display device 1.

[0108] In one embodiment, the thickness of the window 21, for example, the second thickness which is the thickness of the non-folding area NFA, may be about 90 μm to 110 μm. Here, the window protection layer 25 may be omitted, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the display device 1.

[0109] Meanwhile, in one embodiment, the adhesive member AD that adheres and fixes the window 21 to the first housing HS1 may include a resin material. The adhesive member AD may be arranged to surround the lower surface and peripheral surface (side end surface) of the window 21 that is placed in the recessed portion RP. The adhesive member AD may be arranged in a substantially L-shape to surround the window 21 in a cross-sectional view. This allows the window 21 to be more firmly adhered and fixed to the first housing HS1, and may prevent defects such as creases from occurring due to the window 21 coming off the adhesive member AD.

[0110] 7A and 7B are cross-sectional views schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and are similar to Fig. 4. Since the display device according to this embodiment is similar to the display device described above, the following description will focus on the differences.

[0111] 7A, the shape and characteristics of the cover window 20 are similar to those of FIG. 6, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it goes without saying that the cover window 20 can be provided as shown in FIG.

[0112] The housing HS may be connected and fixed to another module such as a case (not shown). In one embodiment, the housing HS may include a first housing HS1 and a second housing HS2.

[0113] The first housing HS1 may be disposed around the display module DM. In one embodiment, the first housing HS1 may extend along the periphery of the display module DM and shield the sides of the display module DM. That is, the first housing HS1 may be disposed so as to surround the entire periphery of the display module DM in a plan view.

[0114] Here, in one embodiment, the first housing HS1 may have a recessed portion RP recessed inward. The recessed portion RP may be recessed inwardly in the first housing HS1. Meanwhile, the first housing HS1 may include a first portion HS11 and a second portion HS12. The first portion HS11 may be arranged along the periphery of the display module DM. For example, the first portion HS11 may be arranged to surround a side portion of the display module DM, particularly a side portion of the display panel 10. The second portion HS12 may protrude from an upper surface of the first portion HS11. The second portion HS12 may protrude upward from an outer portion of the upper surface of the first portion HS11, thereby forming a recessed portion RP in an inner portion of the upper surface of the first portion HS11. A peripheral portion of a cover window 20, for example, a window 21, may be placed in the recessed portion RP. That is, the peripheral portion of the cover window 20, for example, the peripheral portion of the window 21, is placed on the upper surface of the first portion HS11, and the recessed portion RP may open the top of the placed cover window 20. The peripheral portion of the cover window 20, for example, the peripheral portion of the window 21, may be adhered and fixed onto the recessed portion RP via an adhesive member AD.

[0115] The first housing HS1, particularly the first portion HS11, may include a groove GV that opens upward. The groove GV may open upward from the lower surface of the first portion HS11. In one embodiment, both side surfaces of the groove GV may be disposed on both sides of the first housing HS1 in the second direction (y direction). The groove GV may also extend in the first direction (x direction) on both sides of the first housing HS1 in the second direction. That is, the groove GV extends in a direction parallel to the bending axis FAX that extends in the first direction. In one embodiment, the groove GV may include a portion that opens so that its width, for example, its width in the second direction, gradually narrows upward from the lower surface of the first portion HS11.

[0116] The second housing HS2 may be disposed on the lower surface of the display module DM. The second housing HS2 may be disposed to cover the lower surface of the display module DM and may be connected and fixed to another module such as a case (not shown). In one embodiment, the second housing HS2 may be provided as a separate member separate from the first housing HS1.

[0117] The second housing HS2 can include a bottom plate BP and an elastic part EP that protrudes upward from the bottom plate BP so as to be inserted into the groove GV.

[0118] The elastic member EP extends upward from the second housing HS2, particularly from its lower plate BP, into the groove GV. The elastic member EP extends inward toward the bending axis FAX, i.e., tilted inward. The elastic member EP may be formed in an inverted U shape by first extending vertically upward into the groove GV and then bending toward the bending axis FAX. The outer end of the inverted U-shaped elastic member EP may be connected to the lower plate BP. In one embodiment, the elastic member EP may include a leaf spring having elastic force.

[0119] In one embodiment, the elastic members EP may be disposed at both ends of the second housing HS2 in the second direction (y direction). The elastic members EP extend in the first direction (x direction) at both ends of the second housing HS2 in the second direction. That is, the elastic members EP extend in a direction parallel to the bending axis FAX extending in the first direction. In another embodiment, a plurality of elastic members EP may be provided, and the plurality of elastic members EP may be disposed spaced apart along the first direction at both ends of the second housing HS2 in the second direction.

[0120] The lower plate BP covers the lower surface of the display module DM and may be at least partially bonded and fixed to the lower surface of the display module BM. As described above, when the display device 1 is folded around the folding axis FAX so that the display surfaces face each other, the layer located below the window 21, which is the neutral folding surface, may slip in a direction toward the folding axis FAX, and the layer located above the window 21, which is the neutral folding surface, may slip in a direction opposite to the direction toward the folding axis FAX. For example, the lower layer of the display module DM may slip in a direction toward the folding axis FAX, and because the lower plate BP is bonded and fixed to the lower surface of the display module DM, the lower plate BP may also move toward the folding axis FAX together with the lower layer of the display module DM. At this time, the elastic part EP connected to the lower plate BP and inserted into the groove GV may elastically move in the second direction (y direction) within the groove GV. That is, when the display device 1 is folded and unfolded, the elastic part EP reciprocates elastically in the second direction within the groove GV, whereby the second housing HS2, for example, its lower plate BP, can reciprocate in the second direction.

[0121] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the window 21 is adhered and fixed to the recess RP, so that the window 21 does not slip as a bending neutral plane. As a result, the second portion HS12 of the first housing HS1 is disposed more closely around the window 21, thereby reducing the area of ​​the non-display area. As a comparison example, if the bending neutral plane is not the window 21, for example, if the bottom surface of the display module DM is set as the bending neutral plane, the window 21 will slip in a direction away from the bending axis FAX (e.g., in the +y direction), and the second portion HS12 must be disposed at a predetermined margin distance from the peripheral edge of the window 21. This may increase the area of ​​the non-display area.

[0122] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the window 21 is set at the bending neutral plane, the lower layer of the display module DM, for example, the cushion layer 60, can slip, but even if the bottom plate BP is adhered and fixed to the display module DM, the elastic part EP can reciprocate elastically within the groove GV, so the bottom plate BP can move due to slip of the display module DM. This can prevent damage to the display module DM due to the second housing HS2 adhered to the display module DM being separated due to slip of the display module DM, or defects such as wrinkles due to slip of the display module DM.

[0123] 7B , in one embodiment, the first housing HS1 may further include a hook portion HP. The hook portion HP may protrude within the groove GV so as to be bent in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the elastic portion EP. That is, the hook portion HP extends within the groove GV in a direction away from the bending axis FAX and then bent upward to form a substantially U-shape. The U-shaped hook portion HP may be fastened to the inverted U-shaped elastic portion EP, thereby firmly connecting the second housing HS2 to the first housing HS1.

[0124] Figure 8 is a plan view schematically showing a display panel 10 included in a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9 is an equivalent circuit diagram schematically showing one of the pixel circuits PC of the display panel 10 and a display element DPE connected to the pixel circuit PC.

[0125] 8 and 9, the display panel 10 may include a display area DA, a component area CA, and a peripheral area PA. The display panel 10 may include a substrate 100, pixel circuits PC, scan lines SL, data lines DL, driving voltage lines PL, and display elements DPE. In one embodiment, the display area DA, the component area CA, and the peripheral area PA may be defined on the substrate 100. That is, the substrate 100 may include the display area DA, the component area CA, and the peripheral area PA. The following detailed description will focus on the case where the substrate 100 includes the display area DA, the component area CA, and the peripheral area PA.

[0126] The pixel circuit PC and the display element DPE may overlap at least one of the display area DA and the component area CA. The pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin film transistor T1, a switching thin film transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst. The display element may emit red, green, or blue light, or may emit red, green, blue, or white light.

[0127] The switching thin film transistor T2 is connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL and can transmit a scan voltage input from the scan line SL or a data voltage or data signal input from the data line DL according to a scan signal to the driving thin film transistor T1.

[0128] The storage capacitor Cst is connected to the switching thin film transistor T2 and the driving voltage line PL, and can store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage transmitted from the switching thin film transistor T2 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the driving voltage line PL.

[0129] The driving thin film transistor T1 is connected to the driving voltage line PL and the storage capacitor Cst and controls a driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL to the display element DPE in response to the voltage stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The display element DPE emits light having a predetermined brightness in response to the driving current. A counter electrode (e.g., a cathode) of the display element DPE may be supplied with a second power supply voltage ELVSS.

[0130] Although FIG. 9 illustrates that the pixel circuit PC includes two thin film transistors and one storage capacitor, the pixel circuit PC may include three or more thin film transistors.

[0131] The component area CA may be at least partially surrounded by the display area DA. In one embodiment, the component area CA may be entirely surrounded by the display area DA. The component area CA may include a pixel area where the display element DPE is arranged and a transmissive area where the display element DPE is not arranged. Therefore, the light transmittance of the display panel 10 in the component area CA is higher than the light transmittance of the display panel 10 in the display area DA. In one embodiment, the component area CA may include a first component area CA1 and a second component area CA2.

[0132] The peripheral area PA may be disposed outside the display area DA. In one embodiment, the peripheral area PA may surround the display area DA. A scan driver (not shown) that provides scan signals to the pixel circuits PC, a data driver (not shown) that provides data signals, and power supply wiring (not shown) that provides a first power supply voltage ELVDD and / or a second power supply voltage ELVSS may be disposed in the peripheral area PA. The peripheral area PA may include a pad area (PDA). Pads (not shown) may be disposed in the pad area (PDA), and a display circuit board may be connected to the pads.

[0133] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a cross section taken along line X-X' in FIG. 8. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the display panel 10 may include a substrate 100, a display layer 200, an encapsulation layer 300, a touch sensor layer, and an anti-reflection layer. The substrate 100 may be glass or may include a polymer resin such as polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, or cellulose acetate propionate. In one embodiment, the substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure including a base layer and a barrier layer (not shown) including the aforementioned polymer resin. The substrate 100 including the polymer resin may be flexible, rollable, and bendable.

[0134] The display layer 200 may be disposed on the substrate 100. The display layer 200 may include a pixel circuit layer 210 and a display element layer 220.

[0135] The pixel circuit layer 210 may include a first barrier layer BRL1, a first metal layer BML1, a second barrier layer BRL2, a pixel circuit PC, a connecting electrode CM, and a plurality of insulating layers. The pixel circuit PC may include a first thin film transistor TFT1, a second thin film transistor TFT2, and a storage capacitor Cst. The first thin film transistor TFT1 may include a first semiconductor layer Act1, a first gate electrode GE1, a first source electrode SE1, and a first drain electrode DE1. The second thin film transistor TFT2 may include a second semiconductor layer Act2, a second gate electrode GE2, a second source electrode SE2, and a second drain electrode DE2. The storage capacitor Cst may include a first electrode CE1 and a second electrode CE2. The multiple insulating layers may include a buffer layer 211, a first inorganic insulating layer 212, a second inorganic insulating layer 213, an intermediate insulating layer 214, a third inorganic insulating layer 215, a fourth inorganic insulating layer 216, a first organic insulating layer 217, a second organic insulating layer 218, and a third organic insulating layer 219.

[0136] The first barrier layer BRL1 may be disposed on the substrate 100. The first barrier layer BRL1 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ) may contain inorganic substances.

[0137] In some embodiments, the first barrier layer BRL1 can include amorphous silicon a-Si. In one embodiment, the first barrier layer BRL1 is a single layer or multiple layers including the materials described above.

[0138] The first metal layer BML1 may be disposed on the first barrier layer BRL1. The first metal layer BML1 may overlap the first thin film transistor TFT1. The first metal layer BML1 may serve as a lower protective metal to protect layers that overlap it. In one embodiment, the first metal layer BML1 does not overlap the second thin film transistor TFT2. In some embodiments, a constant voltage or signal may be applied to the first metal layer BML1. The first metal layer BML1 may more easily supply charge to the back channel portion of the pixel circuit PC. The first metal layer BML1 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu). In one embodiment, the first metal layer BML1 may include doped amorphous silicon. The first metal layer BML1 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers of the above-mentioned materials.

[0139] The second barrier layer BRL2 may be disposed on the first barrier layer BRL1. The second barrier layer BRL2 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y In some embodiments, the second barrier layer BRL2 may include amorphous silicon (a-Si). In one embodiment, the second barrier layer BRL2 may be a single layer or multiple layers including the aforementioned materials.

[0140] The buffer layer 211 may be disposed on the second barrier layer BRL2. The buffer layer 211 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ) and may be a single layer or multiple layers containing the aforementioned inorganic materials.

[0141] The first semiconductor layer Act1 may be disposed on the buffer layer 211. The first semiconductor layer Act1 may include a silicon semiconductor. In one embodiment, the first semiconductor layer Act1 may include polysilicon. The first semiconductor layer Act1 may include a channel region and a drain region and a source region disposed on either side of the channel region. In another embodiment, the first semiconductor layer Act1 may include an organic semiconductor or an oxide semiconductor.

[0142] The first inorganic insulating layer 212 can be disposed on the first semiconductor layer Act1. The first inorganic insulating layer 212 can be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y That is, the first inorganic insulating layer 212 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y In one embodiment, the first inorganic insulating layer 212 may include at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0143] The first gate electrode GE1 may be disposed on the first inorganic insulating layer 212. The first gate electrode GE1 may overlap the first semiconductor layer Act1. The first gate electrode GE1 may include molybdenum (Mo). The first gate electrode GE1 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and may be a single layer or multiple layers of the aforementioned materials.

[0144] The second inorganic insulating layer 213 may be disposed on the first gate electrode GE1. The second inorganic insulating layer 213 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiOX ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y That is, the second inorganic insulating layer 213 may contain an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y In one embodiment, the second inorganic insulating layer 213 may include at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0145] The second electrode CE2 may be disposed on the second inorganic insulating layer 213. In one embodiment, the second electrode CE2 may overlap the first gate electrode GE1. The second electrode CE2 may include the first gate electrode GE1 and a storage capacitor Cst that overlap with the second inorganic insulating layer 213 sandwiched therebetween. That is, the first gate electrode GE1 may function as the first electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst. In this manner, the storage capacitor Cst may overlap with the first thin film transistor TFT1. In another embodiment, the storage capacitor Cst does not overlap with the first thin film transistor TFT1. The second electrode CE2 may be a single layer or multiple layers of any of the foregoing materials, including aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu).

[0146] The intermediate insulating layer 214 may be disposed on the second electrode CE2. The intermediate insulating layer 214 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N YThat is, the intermediate insulating layer 214 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y In one embodiment, the intermediate insulating layer 214 may include at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0147] The second semiconductor layer Act2 may be disposed on the intermediate insulating layer 214. That is, the second semiconductor layer Act2 may be disposed on the second inorganic insulating layer 213. The second semiconductor layer Act2 may include a channel region and source and drain regions disposed on both sides of the channel region. The second semiconductor layer Act2 may include an oxide semiconductor. For example, the second semiconductor layer Act2 may be made of a Zn-oxide-based material such as Zn oxide, In-Zn oxide, or Ga-In-Zn oxide. Alternatively, the second semiconductor layer Act2 may be formed as an IGZO (In-Ga-Zn-O), ITZO (In-Sn-Zn-O), or IGTZO (In-Ga-Sn-Zn-O) semiconductor, in which zinc oxide (ZnO) contains metals such as indium (In), gallium (Ga), or tin (Sn).

[0148] The source and drain regions of the second semiconductor layer Act2 may be formed by adjusting the carrier concentration of an oxide semiconductor to make it conductive. For example, the source and drain regions of the second semiconductor layer Act2 may be formed by increasing the carrier concentration of the oxide semiconductor through plasma treatment using a hydrogen-based gas, a fluorine-based gas, or a combination thereof.

[0149] The third inorganic insulating layer 215 can be disposed on the second semiconductor layer Act2. The third inorganic insulating layer 215 can be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N YThat is, the third inorganic insulating layer 215 may contain an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y In one embodiment, the third inorganic insulating layer 215 may include at least one of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0150] The second gate electrode GE2 may be disposed on the third inorganic insulating layer 215. The second gate electrode GE2 may overlap the second semiconductor layer Act2. The second gate electrode GE2 may overlap a channel region of the second semiconductor layer Act2. The second gate electrode GE2 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and may be a single layer or multiple layers of the aforementioned materials.

[0151] The fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may be disposed on the second gate electrode GE2. The fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) or silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y That is, the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X ) and silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y) In one embodiment, the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may include aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO). The fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may be a single layer or multiple layers including the aforementioned inorganic insulators.

[0152] The first source electrode SE1 and the first drain electrode DE1 may be disposed on the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216. The first source electrode SE1 and the first drain electrode DE1 may be connected to the first semiconductor layer Act1. In one embodiment, the first source electrode SE1 and the first drain electrode DE1 may be connected to the first semiconductor layer Act1 through contact holes in the insulating layers. For example, the first source electrode SE1 and the first drain electrode DE1 may be connected to the first semiconductor layer Act1 through the contact holes in the first inorganic insulating layer 212, the second inorganic insulating layer 213, the intermediate insulating layer 214, the third inorganic insulating layer 215, and the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216, respectively. The contact holes in the first inorganic insulating layer 212, the second inorganic insulating layer 213, the intermediate insulating layer 214, the third inorganic insulating layer 215, and the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216 may overlap each other.

[0153] The second source electrode SE2 and the second drain electrode DE2 may be disposed on the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216. The second source electrode SE2 and the second drain electrode DE2 may be connected to the second semiconductor layer Act2 through contact holes in the third inorganic insulating layer 215 and the fourth inorganic insulating layer 216, respectively.

[0154] The first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2 may include a material with excellent conductivity. The first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2 may include a conductive material such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer containing the above materials. In one embodiment, the first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2 may have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0155] The first thin film transistor TFT1 having the first semiconductor layer Act1 including a silicon semiconductor has high reliability, and can be used as a driving thin film transistor to realize a high-quality display panel 10.

[0156] Oxide semiconductors have high carrier mobility and low leakage current, so they do not experience a significant voltage drop even over long drive periods. That is, even during low-frequency drive, the image hue does not change significantly due to the voltage drop, making low-frequency drive possible. Because oxide semiconductors have the advantage of low leakage current, using an oxide semiconductor for at least one of the thin film transistors other than the driving thin film transistor can prevent leakage current and reduce power consumption. For example, the second thin film transistor TFT2 may include a second semiconductor layer Act2 including an oxide semiconductor.

[0157] The first organic insulating layer 217 may be disposed to cover the first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2. The first organic insulating layer 217 may include an organic material. For example, the first organic insulating layer 217 may include organic insulators such as general-purpose polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives having phenolic groups, acrylic polymers, imide polymers, aryl ether polymers, amide polymers, fluorine-based polymers, p-xylene-based polymers, vinyl alcohol-based polymers, and blends thereof.

[0158] The connecting electrode CM may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer 217. The connecting electrode CM may be connected to the first drain electrode DE1 or the first source electrode SE1 through a contact hole in the first organic insulating layer 217. The connecting electrode CM may include a material with excellent conductivity. The connecting electrode CM may include a conductive material such as molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed of a single layer or multilayer containing the above materials. In one embodiment, the connecting electrode CM may have a Ti / Al / Ti multilayer structure.

[0159] The second organic insulating layer 218 and the third organic insulating layer 219 may be disposed on the connecting electrode CM. The second organic insulating layer 218 and the third organic insulating layer 219 may include an organic material. For example, at least one of the second organic insulating layer 218 and the third organic insulating layer 219 may include an organic insulator such as a general-purpose polymer such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), a polymer derivative having a phenolic group, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, an amide polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, a vinyl alcohol-based polymer, or a blend thereof. Since the second organic insulating layer 218 and the third organic insulating layer 219 are sequentially stacked, the display element layer 220 may be disposed on the flat pixel circuit layer 210. In some embodiments, the third organic insulating layer 219 may be omitted.

[0160] The display element layer 220 may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer 210. The display element layer 220 may include a display element, for example, an organic light emitting diode (OLED). A plurality of organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) may be provided in the display area DA. That is, a plurality of organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) may be disposed in the display area DA. The organic light emitting diode (OLED) may include a pixel electrode 221, an emitting layer 223, a counter electrode 225, and a pixel defining film 227.

[0161] The pixel electrode 221 may be disposed on the third organic insulating layer 219. The pixel electrode 221 may be connected to the connecting electrode CM through a contact hole 218H in the second organic insulating layer 218 and a contact hole 219H in the third organic insulating layer 219. The pixel electrode 221 may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). In another embodiment, the pixel electrode 221 may include a reflective film containing silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or a compound thereof. In yet another embodiment, the pixel electrode 221 may further include a film formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 above or below the reflective film.

[0162] The pixel defining film 227 may have an opening 227OP that exposes at least a portion of the pixel electrode 221. The opening 227OP of the pixel defining film 227 may define an emitting region ER of the organic light emitting diode OLED. The emitting region ER of the organic light emitting diode OLED may refer to a sub-pixel. In one embodiment, the pixel defining film 227 may have a plurality of openings 227OP. The plurality of openings 227OP may define a plurality of emitting regions ER of a plurality of organic light emitting diodes OLED.

[0163] The pixel defining film 227 may comprise an organic insulator. In another embodiment, the pixel defining film 227 may comprise a silicon oxide (SiO X ), silicon nitride (SiN X In some embodiments, the pixel defining layer 227 may include a light-blocking material and be black. The light-blocking material may include carbon black, carbon nanotubes, a resin or paste containing a black dye, metal particles such as nickel, aluminum, molybdenum, and alloys thereof, metal oxide particles (e.g., chromium oxide), or metal nitride particles (e.g., chromium nitride). When the pixel defining layer 227 includes a light-blocking material, it may reduce reflection of external light from metal structures disposed below the pixel defining layer 227.

[0164] The light-emitting layer 223 may be disposed in the opening 227OP of the pixel defining layer 227. The light-emitting layer 223 may include a polymer or small molecule organic material that emits a predetermined color. Although not shown, a first functional layer and a second functional layer may be disposed below and above the light-emitting layer 223, respectively. The first functional layer may include, for example, a hole transport layer (HTL) or a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer is an optional component disposed on the light-emitting layer 223. The second functional layer may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL). The first functional layer and / or the second functional layer are common layers formed to cover the entire substrate 100, similar to the counter electrode 225 described below.

[0165] The counter electrode 225 may be disposed on the light-emitting layer 223. The counter electrode 225 may be made of a conductive material with a low work function. For example, the counter electrode 225 may include a (semi-)transparent layer containing silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or an alloy thereof. Alternatively, the counter electrode 225 may further include a layer such as ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 on the (semi-)transparent layer containing the aforementioned material. In some embodiments, a capping layer (not shown) may be further disposed on the counter electrode 225. The capping layer may include LiF, an inorganic material, and / or an organic material.

[0166] The encapsulation layer 300 may be disposed on the display element layer 220. The encapsulation layer 300 may protect the display element layer 220. In one embodiment, the encapsulation layer 300 may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. The at least one inorganic encapsulation layer may be made of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), zinc oxide (ZnO), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiN X ), silicon oxynitride (SiO X N Y ) may include one or more inorganic materials. At least one organic encapsulation layer may include a polymer-based material. Examples of polymer-based materials include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene. In one embodiment, at least one organic encapsulation layer may include acrylate. In one embodiment, the encapsulation layer 300 may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330, which are stacked in sequence.

[0167] Although the above description has been given of a display device including organic light emitting diodes as display elements for convenience, embodiments of the present invention may be applied to various types of display devices, such as liquid crystal display devices, electrophoretic display devices, and inorganic EL display devices.

[0168] The display device according to the embodiment of the present invention may be embodied as an electronic device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a smart watch, a navigation device, a game console, a TV, a vehicle head unit, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a PMP (Personal Media Player), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), etc. The electronic device may also be a flexible device.

[0169] As described above, the present invention has been described based on the embodiments shown in the drawings, but this is merely an example. Those skilled in the art will fully understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible from the embodiments. Therefore, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined based on the claims.

[0170] According to a preferred specific embodiment, it is as follows:

[0171] The background and issues of this case are as follows (i) to (v).

[0172] (i) In recent years, smartphones and tablet PCs that can be folded in half or in three have become commercially available. The display panels of these mobile devices use light-emitting display elements, such as organic light-emitting display elements (OLEDs), arranged on a flexible substrate. When folding inward, the device is folded around a folding axis (FAX) located on the obverse side (front side) of the folding line (Figure 2 of the present application).

[0173] (ii) Such a flexible display panel (10) generally has a cover window (20) attached to its front side (front face) and a backing plate (50, 30, 40, 60) attached to its rear side (rear face) (Fig. 3 of the present application).

[0174] (iii) In Figure 3b of Patent Document 1 (KR10-2022-0065575A), it is proposed to form a curved recess in the cover window (120, 210) in the folding region (140) that becomes deeper toward the folding line in order to facilitate folding.

[0175] (iv) For example, Figure 2 of Patent Document 2 (CN116322174A) shows that the peripheral portion of the cover window (4) is attached to the housing (8) with adhesive (9). Also, Figure 5 of Patent Document 3 (CN113589564B) and Figure 6 of Patent Document 4 (KR10-2020-0074849A) show that the peripheral portion of a member (32, 300) covering the back side of the display panel is assembled to a member (33, 400) covering the peripheral portion of the display panel.

[0176] (v) In the course of making the above-mentioned improvements, the inventors of the present application noticed that the flexible display panel is folded back at the periphery to the rear side, and that slippage should occur between the flexible display panel and other components when folding and unfolding. As a result of their earnest efforts to provide or improve a structure for this slippage, they were able to make the present invention. (For example, as shown in FIG. 8 of the present application, the peripheral edge of the display panel (10) is folded back near the housing member that covers the peripheral edge.)

[0177] In a specific embodiment of the present application, the following A1 to A4 or A1 to A6 may be used in particular.

[0178] A1 The peripheral edge of the display panel (10) is folded back onto the back side of the backing member (support layer 30, plate 50, cushion layer 60) near the housing member (first housing HS1) that covers the peripheral edge.

[0179] A2 When a mobile device such as a foldable smartphone is unfolded from a folded state, the display panel (10) and backing member (support layer 30, plate 50, cushion layer 60) other than the peripheral portion are pulled inward (toward the folding axis (FAX)) as shown by the arrows in Figure 4 of the present application.

[0180] A3 When the backing member (support layer 30, plate 50, cushion layer 60) is pulled toward the side (toward the folding axis (FAX)), the folded peripheral portion of the display panel (10) is pulled toward the outside (away from the folding axis (FAX)). Therefore, the folded peripheral portion of the display panel (10) slides between the backing member (support layer 30, plate 50, cushion layer 60) and the rear side housing member (second housing HS2) and is pulled outward.

[0181] When the A4 mobile device is unfolded from the folded state, the peripheral edge of the cover window (20) is pushed outward as shown by the arrow in FIG. Correspondingly, the tip of the peripheral edge of the cover window (20) is adhered and fixed to the upper surface of a recess (RP) formed above the inner part of the housing member (first housing HS1) that covers the peripheral edge. In this way, the window (21), which is the main component of the cover window (20), is prevented from creasing.

[0182] A5 The rear housing member (second housing HS2) may be attached to the housing member (first housing HS1) covering the peripheral edge via an "elastic part EP" so that it can be displaced outward and inward (Fig. 7B of the present application).

[0183] A6 The cover window (20) can include a window (21) as a rigid main member and a window flattening layer (22) covering the window (21), as shown in Figure 5 of the present application. Here, the window (21) can be thin in the folding area (FA) and gradually thinner in the non-folding area (NFA) near the folding area (FA). The window flattening layer (22) can make the thickness of the cover window (20) uniform across the entire area. [Explanation of symbols]

[0184] 1 Display device 10 Display panel 20 Cover Window 30 film layers 40 Support layer 50 plates 60 cushion layer AL adhesive layer HS Housing HS1 1st Housing HS11 Part 1 HS12 Part 2 HS2 Second Housing GV groove EP Elastic part BP lower plate

Claims

1. A display device is defined which includes a folding region having a folding axis extending in a first direction and a non-folding region adjacent to the folding region, a display module having an upper surface serving as a display surface and a lower surface serving as a non-display surface; a window disposed on a top surface of the display module; a housing in which the display module and the window are housed; The housing includes: a first housing disposed to surround a peripheral portion of the display module and having a recessed portion recessed inward, the peripheral portion of the window being placed in the recessed portion; a second housing separated from the first housing and disposed on a lower surface of the display module, the second housing sliding relative to the display module as the display module is bent.

2. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein a width of the window in a second direction intersecting the first direction is greater than a width of the display module in the second direction.

3. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first housing has an open upper portion of a window placed in the recess.

4. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein a peripheral portion of the window is adhered and fixed onto the recessed portion of the first housing by an adhesive member, and a neutral folding surface is positioned on the window.

5. The display device according to claim 4 , wherein the adhesive member is disposed so as to surround a lower surface and a peripheral surface of the peripheral edge of the window.

6. 5. The display device of claim 4, wherein when the display device is folded, a layer of the display module located below the window is slipped toward the folding axis, and a layer of the display module located above the window is slipped away from the folding axis.

7. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the window in the folded region is less than the thickness of the window in the unfolded region.

8. The display device of claim 7 , wherein the thickness of the window gradually increases in the folded region in a direction toward the non-folded region.

9. The display device further includes a window planarization layer disposed over the window; The display device according to claim 7 , wherein the window planarization layer has a thickness that makes the sum of the thickness of the window planarization layer and the thickness of the window constant.

10. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the portion of the window that is placed in the recess is greater than a thickness of another portion of the window that is not placed in the recess.

11. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the first housing includes a first portion and a second portion protruding from an upper surface of the first portion to form the recess.

12. 1. A display device including a bending region having a bending axis extending in a first direction and a non-bending region adjacent to the bending region, a display module that is bendable around the bending axis; a window disposed on the upper surface, which is the display surface of the display module; a housing in which the display module and the window are housed; The housing includes: a first housing disposed so as to surround the display module and having a groove that opens from below to above; a second housing disposed along the lower surface of the display module and having an elastic portion protruding upward to be inserted into the groove.

13. The display device according to claim 12 , wherein the elastic portion extends into the groove and is bent again in a direction toward the bending region to have an inverted U shape.

14. In a plan view, the elastic portions are disposed on both sides of the second housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction, The display device of claim 12 , wherein the elastic portion elastically reciprocates in the second direction within the groove, and the second housing reciprocates in the second direction when the display device is bent or unbent.

15. The display device according to claim 14 , wherein the second housing is fixed to the lower surface of the display module by adhesive.

16. The display device of claim 12 , wherein the elastic portion is provided in a plurality of pieces and spaced apart from one another along the same direction as the extension direction of the bending axis in a plan view.

17. The first housing further includes a hook portion protruding to be bent in the groove in a direction opposite to the bending direction of the elastic portion, The display device according to claim 13 , wherein the hook portion is fastened to the elastic portion.

18. The periphery of the window is placed on and adhered to the first housing; The display device according to claim 12 , wherein the first housing has an open top for the window placed on the first housing.

19. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein the elastic portion includes a leaf spring.

20. An electronic device including a display device, the electronic device including a folding region having a folding axis extending in a first direction and a non-folding region adjacent to the folding region, The display device includes: a display module having an upper surface serving as a display surface and a lower surface serving as a non-display surface; a window disposed on a top surface of the display module; a housing in which the display module and the window are housed; The housing includes: a first housing disposed to surround a peripheral portion of the display module and having a recessed portion recessed inward, the peripheral portion of the window being placed in the recessed portion; a second housing separated from the first housing and disposed on a lower surface of the display module, the second housing sliding relative to the display module as the display module is bent.

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