Indication device

Abstract

The present invention provides a display device that allows the curvature of a display module to be adjusted by bending the display module. [Solution] The display device includes a display module and a bending unit for bending the display module, the bending unit may include a cam wheel rotatably positioned on the back of the display module and an actuating arm connected to the display module to bend the display module and moving linearly by the rotation of the cam wheel.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device capable of bending a display module.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, as flat display devices, there are liquid crystal display devices, plasma display devices, field emission display devices, light emitting display devices, etc. Among them, liquid crystal display devices and light emitting display devices are in the spotlight due to advantages such as mass production technology, ease of driving means, and realization of high image quality. [[ID=IS]] [[ID=1A]]

[0003] In recent years, along with research and development in the technical aspects of flat display devices, the need for research and development in the design of products that can appeal to consumers has particularly emerged. As a result, the demand for curved surface display devices or curved display devices with curvature in display devices has been gradually increasing.

[0004] In particular, in recent years, since the size of the panel has been increasingly expanding, a display device that can be innovatively curved while meeting the slimming requirement demanded by consumers has been developed.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] \nThe problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device capable of bending a display module to adjust the curvature of the display module.

[0006] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device capable of partially bending one side portion of the side portions on both sides of the display module.

[0007] The problems addressed by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A display device according to one embodiment of this specification includes a display module and a bending unit for bending the display module, the bending unit may include a cam wheel rotatably positioned on the back of the display module and an actuation arm connected to the display module to bend the display module and which moves linearly by the rotation of the cam wheel.

[0009] Other embodiments of this specification include a display module and a bending unit positioned on the back of the display module for bending the display module, the bending unit including a cam wheel with a first cam rail and a second cam rail, a first actuating arm and a second actuating arm connected to the display module, respectively, a first cam follower connected to the first actuating arm so as to move along the first cam rail and converting the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the first actuating arm, and a second cam follower connected to the second actuating arm so as to move along the second cam rail and converting the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the second actuating arm.

[0010] A display device according to another embodiment of this specification includes a display module and a bending unit disposed on the surface of the display module and configured to bend the display module. The bending unit includes a cam wheel including a first cam rail and a second cam rail, a first cam follower connected to the first cam rail, a second cam follower connected to the second cam rail, a first actuating arm connected to the first cam follower and a first side portion of the display module and configured to apply a force that bends the first side portion of the display module, and a second actuating arm connected to the second cam follower and a second side portion of the display module and configured to apply a force that bends the second side portion of the display module. The display module is bent by the movement of the first actuating arm and the movement of the second actuating arm, which are caused by at least one of the movement of the first cam follower moving along the first cam rail and the movement of the second cam follower moving along the second cam rail, which are generated by the rotational motion of the cam wheel.

[0011] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0012] This invention allows the curvature of a display module to be adjusted by bending it.

[0013] This invention allows for partial bending of one of the side portions of a display module.

[0014] This invention allows for diverse changes in the curvature of the display module, enabling the provision of an optimal viewing experience based on user preferences and viewing environment.

[0015] This invention optimizes the viewing angle by adjusting the curvature of the display module, enabling the provision of high-quality images to all users even when multiple users are viewing simultaneously.

[0016] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and a wide variety of other effects are included within the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a front view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a rear view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a plan view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4a] This shows the display module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention maintaining its basic mode. [Figure 4b] This shows how the display module of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention is deformed into an overall bending mode. [Figure 5a] This shows the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention maintaining its basic mode. [Figure 5b] This shows how the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is deformed into a partial bending mode. [Figure 6] This is a plan view showing how the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is deformed into a partial bending mode. [Figure 7a] This shows the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention maintaining its basic mode. [Figure 7b] This shows how the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is deformed into a first partial bending mode. [Figure 7c] This shows how the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is deformed into a second partial bending mode. [Figure 7d]This shows a state in which the display module of the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention is deformed into the overall bending mode. [Figure 8] This shows a partial part of the bending unit of the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the back. [Figure 10] This shows an enlarged view of a partial part of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] This is an exploded perspective view showing the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] The advantages and features of this specification, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, this specification is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and is embodied in various different shapes. Merely, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this specification becomes complete, and to fully inform those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this specification pertains of the scope of this specification.

[0019] The shapes, areas, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. disclosed in the drawings for explaining the embodiments of this specification are exemplary, so this specification is not limited to the matters illustrated. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Also, in explaining this specification, when it is judged that a detailed explanation of related known technologies may muddy the gist of this specification, that detailed explanation is omitted. When terms such as "including", "having", "being made", etc. mentioned in this specification are used, unless "only" is used, other parts can be added. When a component is expressed in the singular, it includes the case of including a plurality unless there is a particularly explicit description.

[0020] When interpreting the constituent elements, they shall be interpreted as including a margin of error, even if not explicitly stated otherwise.

[0021] When describing a spatial relationship, for example, when describing the positional relationship between two parts using phrases like "on top," "above," "below," or "next to," it is acceptable for one or more other parts to be located between the two parts, as long as "immediately" or "directly" is not used.

[0022] When an element or layer is referred to as "on" another element or layer, this includes cases where another layer or other element is interposed immediately above or between the other element.

[0023] Furthermore, while terms like "first," "second," etc., are used to describe a variety of components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are simply used to distinguish one component from another.

[0024] Throughout the specification, the same reference numeral refers to the same component.

[0025] The area and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only, and this specification is not necessarily limited to the area and thickness of the components shown.

[0026] The features of each of the various embodiments described herein can be combined or combined with one another, either partially or as a whole, enabling a variety of technically diverse interoperability and drive, and each embodiment may be implemented independently of the others or together in relation to one another.

[0027] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a front view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a rear view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a top view showing a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4a shows the display module of the display device according to one embodiment of the present invention maintaining its basic mode. Figure 4b shows the display module of the display device according to one embodiment of the present invention being deformed into the overall bending mode.

[0029] Referring to Figures 1 to 4b, a display device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display module 110, a stand 115, and a bending unit 120.

[0030] The display module 110 can be transformed into basic mode, partial bending mode, and full bending mode by the bending unit 120. In basic mode, the display module 110 is not transformed by the bending unit 120. In this state, the display module 110 can be flat or in an initial state bent at a preset basic curvature. In partial bending mode, only one of the left and right side portions of the display module 110 is bent. For example, only the left side portion may be bent and the right side may not be transformed, or conversely, only the right side portion may be bent and the left side may not be transformed. In full bending mode, both the left and right side portions of the display module 110 are bent.

[0031] The display module 110 is a component for providing video and audio to the user. For this purpose, various components for providing such video and audio may be mounted inside the display module 110. The display module 110 includes a display panel 111.

[0032] The display panel 111 may be any one of the following: a plasma display panel, a liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode display, or a light-emitting diode display.

[0033] The display panel 111 may consist of a curved display or a flexible display, rather than a flat display. The display panel 111 may also consist of a touch-sensitive display.

[0034] The stand 115 supports the display module 110. The stand 115 is positioned behind the display module 110 and can be securely attached to a desk, table, or the like to stably support the display module 110.

[0035] The stand 115 includes a base frame 116 and a pedestal 117.

[0036] The base frame 116 is positioned so that at least a portion of it faces the back of the display module 110 and is connected to the display module 110. Power cables and various interface cables for supplying power to the display module 110 may be attached to the base frame 116. The base frame 116 may be configured to support the display module 110 in a height-adjustable manner.

[0037] The base 117 is positioned at the lower end of the base frame 116 and can be attached to a desk, table, or the like. The base 117 can be detachably connected to the base frame 116. When the base 117 is connected to the base frame 116, the display device 100 can be mounted as a stand. When the base 117 is separated from the base frame 116, the display device 100 can be mounted as a wall-mounted type. The base frame 116 may include components that can be mounted on a wall.

[0038] The bending unit 120 may be configured to deform the display module 110 by applying physical force directly or indirectly to the display module 110. The bending unit 120 can deform the display module 110 into a basic mode or a bending mode.

[0039] When the bending unit 120 does not apply force to the display module 110, the display module 110 can maintain its basic mode. For example, as shown in Figure 4a, if the display module 110 includes a flat display, the display module 110 can maintain a flat shape in basic mode. If the display module 110 includes a curved display, the display module 110 can maintain a curved shape with a preset basic curvature in basic mode.

[0040] When the bending unit 120 applies force to the side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 can be deformed into a bending mode. For example, as shown in Figure 4b, by applying force to either of the side portions of the display module 110, both side portions of the display module 110 can be bent simultaneously.

[0041] The side portion of the display module 110 may refer to the portion including the edge of the display module 110. For example, the left or right side portion of the display module 110 may be the area including the edge within the respective half. Specifically, the left side portion may refer to the area including the left edge of the left half, and the right side portion may refer to the area including the right edge of the right half.

[0042] The bending unit 120 includes a pair of actuating arms 121, 122 connected to the display module 110, cam followers 124, 126 positioned on the pair of actuating arms 121, 122 respectively, a cam wheel 130 including a pair of cam rails 131, 132, and a drive unit 136 that provides rotational force to the cam wheel 130.

[0043] A pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 are connected to the sides of the display module 110, respectively, so as to be able to apply a force to the display module 110 that can be bent. The pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 can be bent along the display module 110 when the display module 110 is bent. The pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 may be positioned facing the back of the display module 110. Alternatively, the pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 may be positioned one on each side of the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130, but are not limited to this arrangement.

[0044] Of the pair of actuating arms 121, 122, the first actuating arm 121 can bend one side portion of the display module 110. For example, the first actuating arm 121 is connected to the left side portion of the display module 110 so as to bend the left side portion of the display module 110. The first actuating arm 121 may be positioned so that one end is fixed to one side portion of the display module 110 and the other end faces the cam wheel 130. For example, one end of the first actuating arm 121 may be fixed to the left edge of the display module 110, or to a portion located at a predetermined distance from the center of the display module 110 toward the left edge.

[0045] A first cam follower 124 is positioned at the other end of the first actuating arm 121. The first actuating arm 121 is connected to the cam wheel 130 through the first cam follower 124 and can perform linear motion by the rotation of the cam wheel 130.

[0046] The first actuation arm 121 may be covered and protected by a cover 140 located on the back of the display module 110. The cover 140 can act as a guide to support the first actuation arm 121 in linear motion. By supporting the first actuation arm 121 in linear motion, the first actuation arm 121 can move stably in linear motion without twisting or bending unevenly when it receives the driving force from the cam wheel 130 through the first cam follower 124.

[0047] Of the pair of actuating arms 121, 122, the second actuating arm 122 can press and bend the other side portion of the display module 110. For example, the second actuating arm 122 is connected to the right side portion of the display module 110 so that it can bend the right side portion of the display module 110. The second actuating arm 122 may be positioned so that one end is fixed to the other side portion of the display module 110 and the other end faces the cam wheel 130. For example, one end of the second actuating arm 122 may be fixed to the right edge of the display module 110, or to a portion located at a predetermined distance from the center of the display module 110 toward the right edge. Another second cam follower 126 is positioned at the other end of the second actuating arm 122, and the second actuating arm 122 is connected to the cam wheel 130 through the second cam follower 126.

[0048] The second actuation arm 122 may be covered, protected, and guided by the cover 140, similar to the first actuation arm 121. The cover 140 supports the second actuation arm 122 in linear motion so that when the second actuation arm 122 receives the driving force from the cam wheel 130 through the second cam follower 126, it can move in a stable linear motion without twisting or bending unevenly.

[0049] The cam followers 124 and 126 are positioned on the pair of actuating arms 121 and 122, respectively, to transmit the driving force of the cam wheel 130 to the pair of actuating arms 121 and 122.

[0050] Specifically, the first cam follower 124 is positioned at the other end of the first actuating arm 121 and connects the first actuating arm 121 to the cam wheel 130. When the cam wheel 130 rotates, the first cam follower 124 can transmit the driving force of the cam wheel 130 to the first actuating arm 121. In other words, the first cam follower 124 can convert the rotational motion of the cam wheel 130 into the linear motion of the first actuating arm 121. The first cam follower 124 is inserted into the first cam rail 131 of the pair of cam rails 131, 132 included in the cam wheel 130. When the cam wheel 130 rotates, the first cam follower 124 moves along the first cam rail 131, thereby causing the first actuating arm 121 to move linearly.

[0051] The first cam follower 124 can be implemented in a variety of forms. For example, the first cam follower 124 may be a roller rotatably positioned relative to the first actuation arm 121, or it may be fixed in a form that does not rotate.

[0052] The second cam follower 126 is positioned at the other end of the second actuating arm 122 and connects the second actuating arm 122 to the cam wheel 130. When the cam wheel 130 rotates, the second cam follower 126 can transmit the driving force of the cam wheel 130 to the second actuating arm 122. In other words, the second cam follower 126 can convert the rotational motion of the cam wheel 130 into the linear motion of the second actuating arm 122. The second cam follower 126 is inserted into the second cam rail 132 of the pair of cam rails 131, 132 included in the cam wheel 130. When the cam wheel 130 rotates, the second cam follower 126 moves along the second cam rail 132, thereby causing the second actuating arm 122 to move linearly.

[0053] The second cam follower 126 can be implemented in a variety of forms. For example, the second cam follower 126 may be a roller rotatably positioned relative to the second actuation arm 122, or it may be fixed in a form that does not rotate.

[0054] The cam wheel 130 is positioned away from the display module 110 so as to face the rear of the display module 110. In the drawing, the cam wheel 130 is shown positioned between the display module 110 and the actuating arms 121 and 122, but this position can be changed. For example, the cam wheel 130 may be positioned further away from the display module 110 than the actuating arms 121 and 122.

[0055] The cam wheel 130 may be rotatably supported on the base frame 116 and connected to the drive unit 136 through a rotating shaft 134. The cam wheel 130 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the rotating shaft 134. The cam wheel 130 may be positioned essentially in the central part of the display module 110, but its position can be adjusted in various ways as needed.

[0056] The first cam rail 131 and the second cam rail 132 may be positioned on either side of the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130. For example, the first cam rail 131 may be positioned off-center from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130 towards the left side portion of the display module 110, and the second cam rail 132 may be positioned off-center from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130 towards the right side portion of the display module 110. However, the form, length, and position of the first cam rail 131 and the second cam rail 132 can be varied in many ways.

[0057] The first cam rail 131 can be made into a curved pattern extending radially from the cam wheel 130. For example, the first cam rail 131 can be embodied in an arch, arc, or parabolic shape. Part of the first cam rail 131 may be located on a virtual first concentric circle C1 that shares a rotation center R with the cam wheel 130, and other parts of the first cam rail 131 may be located on a virtual second concentric circle C2 that is larger than the first concentric circle C1 and shares a rotation center R with the cam wheel 130. Specifically, the first cam rail 131 may include a first end section 131-1 located on the first concentric circle C1, a second end section 131-2 located on the second concentric circle C2, and a first curved section 131-3 connecting the two end sections 131-1 and 131-2.

[0058] The second cam rail 132 may be made into a curved pattern extending radially over the cam wheel 130, similar to the first cam rail 131. For example, the second cam rail 132 may be arched, arc-shaped, or parabolic. The second cam rail 132 is also located across the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2. Specifically, the second cam rail 132 includes a third end section 132-1 on the first concentric circle C1, a fourth end section 132-2 on the second concentric circle C2, and a second curved section 132-3 connecting the two end sections 132-1 and 132-2. Such a configuration of the second cam rail 132 is similar to the first cam rail 131, but the specific form and length of each section may differ.

[0059] The cam wheel 130 can rotate such that the first cam follower 124 moves between the first end section 131-1 and the second end section 131-2, and the second cam follower 126 moves between the third end section 132-1 and the fourth end section 132-2. That is, the cam wheel 130 can rotate such that the first cam follower 124 stops at either the first end section 131-1 or the second end section 131-2, and the second cam follower 126 stops at either the third end section 132-1 or the fourth end section 132-2.

[0060] Since the first cam follower 124 moves between the first end section 131-1 and the second end section 131-2 of the first cam rail 131, the linear motion stroke of the first actuating arm 121 is the same as the difference in radius between the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2. That is, the first actuating arm 121 can perform linear motion equal to the difference in radius between the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2.

[0061] The second cam follower 126 moves between the third end section 132-1 and the fourth end section 132-2 of the second cam rail 132. As a result, the linear motion stroke of the second actuating arm 122 is the same as the radius difference between the second concentric circle C2 and the first concentric circle C1, just as it is for the first actuating arm 121.

[0062] The specific configuration of the cam wheel 130 is not limited to that shown in the illustration. For example, the cam wheel 130 may include cam rails of other configurations besides groove configurations. The configuration of the cam followers 124 and 126 may also be changed depending on the configuration of the cam rails.

[0063] The drive unit 136 is connected to the cam wheel 130 through a rotating shaft 134 and provides rotational force to the cam wheel 130. The drive unit 136 may be mounted on the base frame 116. The drive unit 136 may include a motor or other devices or components that can provide rotational force. The drive unit 136 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) and can rotate the cam wheel 130 clockwise or counterclockwise by a preset angle.

[0064] Furthermore, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 130 when it is not in operation. When the drive unit 136 rotates the cam wheel 130 by a preset angle and the display module 110 is folded, a reaction force is generated in the display module 110 that attempts to restore it to its original shape. As a result, the cam wheel 130 receives torque in the opposite direction. At this time, the drive unit 136 can fix the cam wheel 130, thereby maintaining the folded state of the display module 110.

[0065] If necessary, the drive unit 136 may be omitted. If the drive unit 136 is omitted, the cam wheel 130 may be configured to be rotated manually by the user. For this purpose, components for user operation, such as levers and handles, may be attached to the cam wheel 130. Furthermore, if the drive unit 136 is omitted, a locking mechanism or stopper may be provided to prevent the cam wheel 130 from rotating due to the restoring force of the display module 110.

[0066] In one embodiment of the present invention, the display device 100 allows the display module 110 to be transformed into a basic mode or a bending mode by the action of the bending unit 120.

[0067] As shown in Figure 4a, the display module 110 can maintain its basic mode when the first cam follower 124 is positioned at the first end section 131-1 of the first cam rail 131 and the second cam follower 126 is positioned at the third end section 132-1 of the second cam rail 132. In this state, the first cam follower 124 does not pressurize the first actuating arm 121 away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130, and the second cam follower 126 does not pressurize the second actuating arm 122 away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130. Thus, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat configuration.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4b, when the cam wheel 130 rotates counterclockwise by the drive unit 136, the first cam follower 124 moves to the second end section 131-2 of the first cam rail 131, and the second cam follower 126 moves to the fourth end section 132-2 of the second cam rail 132. At this time, the display module 110 can be deformed into bending mode.

[0069] Specifically, the first actuating arm 121 moves away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130 by a predetermined stroke, and the second actuating arm 122 moves away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 130 by a predetermined stroke.

[0070] Consequently, the left and right side portions of the display module 110 are bent. At this time, the first actuation arm 121 and the second actuation arm 122 may also be bent together with the display module 110. When the first actuation arm 121 bends the left side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 may be gently bent from the center to the left edge. Similarly, when the second actuation arm 122 bends the right side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 may be gently bent from the center to the right edge. Therefore, the display module 110 can be bent as a whole.

[0071] After the display module 110 is folded, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 130, thereby maintaining the display module 110 in the folded state.

[0072] Thus, in the display device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the display module 110 is deformed into a curved shape by the bending unit 120 so as to envelop the user in front of it, thereby providing the user with realistic image quality and a sense of immersion.

[0073] Figure 5a shows the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention maintaining its basic mode. Figure 5b shows the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention being deformed into a partial bending mode. Figure 6 is a plan view showing the display module of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention being deformed into a partial bending mode.

[0074] Referring to Figures 5a and 5b, another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 200, includes a display module 110, a stand 115, and a bending unit 220. The display module 110 and the stand 115 are as previously described.

[0075] The bending unit 220 includes a pair of actuating arms 121, 122 connected to the display module 110, cam followers 124, 126 positioned on the pair of actuating arms 121, 122 respectively, a cam wheel 230 including a pair of cam rails 231, 232, and a drive unit 136 (see Figure 1) that provides rotational force to the cam wheel 230. The pair of actuating arms 121, 122, the pair of cam followers 124, 126, and the drive unit 136 are as described above.

[0076] The cam wheel 230 is connected to the first actuating arm 121 through the first cam follower 124 and to the second actuating arm 122 through the second cam follower 126. The cam wheel 230 includes a first cam rail 231 into which the first cam follower 124 is inserted and a second cam rail 232 into which the second cam follower 126 is inserted.

[0077] The first cam rail 231 and the second cam rail 232 are positioned on either side of the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230. For example, the first cam rail 231 may be positioned offset from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230 towards the left side portion of the display module 110, and the second cam rail 232 may be positioned offset from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230 towards the right side portion of the display module 110. However, the shape, length, and position of the first cam rail 231 and the second cam rail 232 can be varied in many ways.

[0078] The first cam rail 231 can be made to have a curved shape that extends radially around the cam wheel 230. For example, the first cam rail 231 can be arched, arc-shaped, or parabolic. A portion of the first cam rail 231 may be located on a virtual first concentric circle C1 that shares a rotation center R with the cam wheel 230, while another portion may be located on a virtual second concentric circle C2 that is larger than the first concentric circle C1 and shares a rotation center R with the cam wheel 230.

[0079] Specifically, the first cam rail 231 may include a first end section 231-1 located on a first concentric circle C1, a second end section 231-2 located on a second concentric circle C2, and a first curved section 231-3 connecting the first end section 231-1 and the second end section 231-2.

[0080] The second cam rail 232 may be in the shape of an arc positioned on the first concentric circle C1. For example, the second cam rail 232 may include a third end section 232-1 and a fourth end section 232-2 positioned spaced apart from each other on the second concentric circle C2, and a second curved section 232-3 connecting the third end section 232-1 and the fourth end section 232-2.

[0081] The cam wheel 230 can rotate so that the first cam follower 124 moves between the first end section 231-1 and the second end section 231-2. As the first cam follower 124 moves between the first end section 231-1 and the second end section 231-2, the first actuating arm 121 can move a distance equal to the difference in radius between the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2.

[0082] In another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 200 allows the display module 110 to be transformed into a basic mode or a bending mode by the action of a bending unit 220.

[0083] As shown in Figure 5a, the display module 110 can be maintained in its basic mode when the first cam follower 124 is positioned at the first end section 231-1 of the first cam rail 231 and the second cam follower 126 is positioned at the third end section 232-1 of the second cam rail 232. In this state, the first cam follower 124 does not pressurize the first actuating arm 121 away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230, and the second cam follower 126 does not pressurize the second actuating arm 122 away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230. Thus, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat configuration.

[0084] As shown in Figure 5b, when the cam wheel 230 rotates counterclockwise, the first cam follower 124 can move to the second end section 231-2 of the first cam rail 231, and the second cam follower 126 can move to the fourth end section 232-2 of the second cam rail 232. At this time, the display module 110 can be deformed into bending mode.

[0085] That is, the first actuation arm 121 moves away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 230 by a preset stroke. At this time, the second actuation arm 122 does not move. Therefore, only the left side portion of the display module 110 is folded. When the first actuation arm 121 folds the left side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 can be gently folded from the central portion to the left edge.

[0086] After the display module 110 is folded, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 230, thereby maintaining the display module 110 in the folded state.

[0087] As shown in Figure 6, in the display device 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention, the display module 110 is deformed into a curved shape so as to envelop the user in front of it, thereby providing the user with realistic image quality and a sense of immersion.

[0088] Furthermore, in another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 200 has a display module 110 where only one side portion is partially bent, which optimizes the viewing angle and provides good image quality to all users when multiple users view the screen of the display device 200 simultaneously.

[0089] In another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 200 may be configured to include a single operating arm, since the bending unit 220 operates to bend only one side portion of the display module 110.

[0090] For example, if only the left side portion of the display module 110 is to bend, the bending unit 220 may include one actuation arm 121 and one cam follower 124 connected to the left side portion of the display module 110. In this case, the cam wheel 230 may have only one cam rail 231 into which the cam follower 124 is inserted.

[0091] Furthermore, if only the right side portion of the display module 110 is to bend, the bending unit 220 may include one actuation arm 122 and one cam follower 126 connected to the right side portion of the display module 110. In this case, the cam wheel 230 may have only one cam rail into which the cam follower 126 is inserted.

[0092] Figure 7a shows the display module of a display device according to the present invention or another embodiment maintaining the basic mode. Figure 7b shows the display module of a display device according to the present invention or another embodiment being deformed into the first partial bending mode. Figure 7c shows the display module of a display device according to the present invention or another embodiment being deformed into the second partial bending mode. Figure 7d shows the display module of a display device according to the present invention or another embodiment being deformed into the whole bending mode.

[0093] Referring to Figures 7a to 7d, another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 300, includes a display module 110, a stand 115, and a bending unit 320. The display module 110 and the stand 115 are as previously described.

[0094] The bending unit 320 includes a pair of actuating arms 121, 122 connected to the display module 110, cam followers 124, 126 positioned on the pair of actuating arms 121, 122 respectively, a cam wheel 330 on which a pair of cam rails 331, 332 are positioned, and a drive unit 136 (see Figure 1) that provides rotational force to the cam wheel 330. The pair of actuating arms 121, 122, the pair of cam followers 124, 126, and the drive unit 136 are as described above.

[0095] The cam wheel 330 is connected to the first actuating arm 121 through the first cam follower 124 and to the second actuating arm 122 through the second cam follower 126. The cam wheel 330 includes a first cam rail 331 into which the first cam follower 124 is inserted and a second cam rail 332 into which the second cam follower 126 is inserted.

[0096] The first cam rail 331 and the second cam rail 332 are positioned on either side of the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330. For example, the first cam rail 331 may be positioned offset from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330 towards the left side portion of the display module 110, and the second cam rail 332 may be positioned offset from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330 towards the right side portion of the display module 110. However, the shape, length, and position of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam rail 332 can be varied in many ways.

[0097] The patterns of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam rail 332 are different from each other. The first cam rail 331 may be located on a hypothetical first concentric circle C1 in which a portion shares the rotation center R with the cam wheel 330, and on a hypothetical second concentric circle C2 which is larger than the first concentric circle C1 and shares the rotation center R with the cam wheel 330. The second cam rail 332 may also be located on the first concentric circle C1 in which a portion lies, and on the second concentric circle C2 in which a portion lies.

[0098] The first cam rail 331 includes a first end section 331-1 located on a first concentric circle C1, a second end section 331-2 located on a second concentric circle C2, a plurality of curved sections 331-3, 331-4, 331-5 connecting the first end section 331-1 and the second end section 331-2, and a plurality of turning sections 331-6, 331-7 positioned between the plurality of curved sections 331-3, 331-4, 331-5.

[0099] Multiple curved sections 331-3, 331-4, and 331-5 can each be shaped like a bow. The multiple curved sections 331-3, 331-4, and 331-5 include a first curved section 331-3 connected to a first end section 331-1, a second curved section 331-4 connected to a second end section 331-2, and a third curved section 331-5 connecting the first curved section 331-3 and the second curved section 331-4.

[0100] The multiple turning sections 331-6, 331-7 include a first turning section 331-6 located on a second concentric circle C2 and a second turning section 331-7 located on a first concentric circle C1. The first turning section 331-6 connects the first curve section 331-3 and the third curve section 331-5. The second turning section 331-7 connects the second curve section 331-4 and the third curve section 331-5.

[0101] The second cam rail 332 includes a third end section 332-1 and a fourth end section 332-2 positioned spaced apart from each other on a second concentric circle C2, a plurality of curved sections 332-3, 332-4, and 332-5 connecting the third end section 332-1 and the fourth end section 332-2, and a plurality of turning sections 332-6 and 332-7 positioned between the plurality of curved sections 332-3, 332-4, and 332-5.

[0102] Multiple curved sections 332-3, 332-4, and 332-5 can each be shaped like a bow. The multiple curved sections 332-3, 332-4, and 332-5 include a fourth curved section 332-3 connected to a third end section 332-1, a fifth curved section 332-4 connected to a fourth end section 332-2, and a sixth curved section 332-5 connecting the fourth curved section 332-3 and the fifth curved section 332-4.

[0103] The multiple turning sections 332-6, 332-7 include a third turning section 332-6 and a fourth turning section 332-7, which are positioned apart from each other on a first concentric circle C1. The third turning section 332-6 connects the fourth curve section 332-3 and the sixth curve section 332-5. The fourth turning section 332-7 connects the fifth curve section 332-4 and the sixth curve section 332-5.

[0104] The cam wheel 330 can rotate such that the first cam follower 124 moves between the first end section 331-1 and the second end section 331-2, and the second cam follower 126 moves between the third end section 332-1 and the fourth end section 332-2. The cam wheel 330 can also rotate such that the first cam follower 124 stops at any one of the first end section 331-1, the second end section 331-2, the first turning section 331-6, and the second turning section 331-7, and the second cam follower 126 stops at any one of the third end section 332-1, the fourth end section 332-2, the third turning section 332-6, and the fourth turning section 332-7.

[0105] The rotation of the cam wheel 330 allows the first cam follower 124 to stop at the first end section 331-1 or the second turning section 331-7 located on the first concentric circle C1, or at the second end section 331-2 or the first turning section 331-6 located on the second concentric circle C2. Thus, the first actuating arm 121 can move a distance equal to the difference in radius between the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2.

[0106] Furthermore, the rotation of the cam wheel 330 allows the second cam follower 126 to stop at the third turning section 332-6 or the fourth turning section 332-7 located on the first concentric circle C1, or at the third end section 332-1 or the fourth end section 332-2 located on the second concentric circle C2. Therefore, the stroke of the second actuating arm 122, which moves linearly due to the second cam follower 126, is the same as the difference in radii between the first concentric circle C1 and the second concentric circle C2, as is the stroke of the first actuating arm 121.

[0107] The rotation of the cam wheel 330 allows the first cam follower 124 and the second cam follower 126 to stop on either the first concentric circle C1 or the second concentric circle C2. When both the first cam follower 124 and the second cam follower 126 are positioned on the first concentric circle C1, the first actuating arm 121 and the second actuating arm 122 do not move in the direction that would bend the display module 110.

[0108] When the first cam follower 124 is positioned on the second concentric circle C2 and the second cam follower 126 is positioned on the first concentric circle C1, the first actuating arm 121 performs a linear motion that bends the display module 110, while the second actuating arm 122 remains stationary.

[0109] Furthermore, when the second cam follower 126 is located on the second concentric circle C2 and the first cam follower 124 is located on the first concentric circle C1, the second actuating arm 122 moves linearly in the direction of bending the display module 110, while the first actuating arm 121 does not move.

[0110] Furthermore, when the first cam follower 124 and the second cam follower 126 are both located on the second concentric circle C2, the first actuating arm 121 and the second actuating arm 122 both move linearly in the direction of bending the display module 110.

[0111] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 300 can be transformed into a basic mode or a bending mode by the action of a bending unit 320. The bending modes include a first partial bending mode, a second partial bending mode, and a full bending mode.

[0112] As shown in Figure 7a, when the first cam follower 124 is positioned at the second turning section 331-7 of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam follower 126 is positioned at the third turning section 332-6 of the second cam rail 332, the display module 110 can maintain its basic mode. In this state, the first actuating arm 121 and the second actuating arm 122 do not bend the display module 110. Therefore, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat configuration.

[0113] As shown in Figure 7b, the display module 110 can be deformed into a first partial bending mode when the cam wheel 330 rotates counterclockwise by a predetermined angle, causing the first cam follower 124 to move to the first turning section 331-6 of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam follower 126 to move to the fourth turning section 332-7 of the second cam rail 332.

[0114] At this time, the first actuating arm 121 moves away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330 by a preset stroke, while the second actuating arm 122 does not move. Therefore, only the left side portion of the display module 110 is folded. When the first actuating arm 121 folds the left side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 can be gently folded from the central portion to the left edge.

[0115] After the left side portion of the display module 110 is folded, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 330, thereby maintaining the display module 110 in the folded state.

[0116] As shown in Figure 7c, the display module 110 can be deformed into a second partial bending mode when the cam wheel 330 rotates counterclockwise by a predetermined angle, causing the first cam follower 124 to move to the first end section 331-1 of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam follower 126 to move to the fourth end section 332-2 of the second cam rail 332.

[0117] At this time, the second actuation arm 122 moves away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330 by a preset stroke, while the first actuation arm 121 does not move. Therefore, only the right side portion of the display module 110 is folded. When the second actuation arm 122 folds the right side portion of the display module 110, the display module 110 can be gently folded from the central portion to the right edge.

[0118] After the right side portion of the display module 110 is folded, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 330, thereby maintaining the display module 110 in the folded state.

[0119] As shown in Figure 7d, the display module 110 can be deformed into its overall bending mode when the cam wheel 330 rotates clockwise by a predetermined angle, causing the first cam follower 124 to move to the second end section 331-2 of the first cam rail 331 and the second cam follower 126 to move to the third end section 332-1 of the second cam rail 332.

[0120] At this time, the first actuating arm 121 and the second actuating arm 122 move away from the rotation center R of the cam wheel 330 by a predetermined stroke. Consequently, the left and right side portions of the display module 110 are all bent. Thus, the display module 110 can be bent as a whole.

[0121] After the display module 110 is folded, the drive unit 136 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 330, thereby maintaining the display module 110 in the folded state.

[0122] In another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 300 can be transformed by the bending unit 320 into a first partial bending mode in which only one side portion is bent, a second partial bending mode in which only the other side portion is bent, and a full bending mode in which both sides are bent. Therefore, the curvature of the display module 110 can be changed in a variety of ways, and an optimal viewing experience can be provided depending on the user's preferences and viewing environment.

[0123] In another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation direction and rotation angle of the cam wheel 330 can be varied in various ways.

[0124] For example, the cam wheel 330 may rotate at an angle such that the first cam follower 124 stops in the curved sections 331-3, 331-4, and 331-5 of the first cam rail 331. In this case, the left side portion of the display module 110 may be bent with a wider variety of curvatures.

[0125] Furthermore, the cam wheel 330 may rotate at an angle such that the second cam follower 126 stops in the curved sections 332-3, 332-4, and 332-5 of the second cam rail 332. In this case, the right side portion of the display module 110 may be bent with an even wider range of curvatures.

[0126] Furthermore, by rotating the cam wheel 330 clockwise or counterclockwise at a preset angle, the display module 110 can be transformed into basic mode, first partial bending mode, second partial bending mode, and full bending mode.

[0127] Furthermore, the patterns on the first cam rail 331 and the second cam rail 332 can be varied in many ways.

[0128] For example, the first cam rail 331 and the second cam rail 332 may be arranged in such a way that the strokes of the first actuating arm 121 and the second actuating arm 122 are different. In this case, either the left side portion or the right side portion of the display module 110 may be bent more.

[0129] Furthermore, the number and position of the curved sections and turning sections that constitute the first cam rail 331 can be varied in many ways.

[0130] Furthermore, the number and position of the curved sections and turning sections that constitute the second cam rail 332 can be varied in many ways.

[0131] Figure 8 shows a portion of the bending unit of a display device according to the present invention or other embodiments.

[0132] The display device shown in Figure 8 further includes a retainer 450 positioned in a sharply bent portion of the first cam rail 331 to support the cam follower 124. The retainer 450 is positioned in the first turning section 331-6, which is the joint between the first curved section 331-3 and the third curved section 331-5, which are connected at an acute angle. Specifically, at least a portion of the retainer 450 is positioned in the first turning section 331-6 so that it can support the cam follower 124. The retainer 450 has a support surface 451 to which the cam follower 124 can make contact.

[0133] The retainer 450 can support the cam follower 124 in the first turning section 331-6 by contacting the cam follower 124 with its support surface 451, preventing the cam follower 124 from shifting toward the rotation center R side of the cam wheel 330. Therefore, it is possible to prevent vibration phenomena of the display module 110 during the bending process, and to prevent problems such as being unable to bend the display module 110 to the target curvature.

[0134] The retainer 450 can be made into various shapes, such as cylindrical or semi-cylindrical. The support surface 451 can be made into an arc shape or a curved shape.

[0135] The retainer 450 is supported by an elastic member 453. The elastic member 453 is positioned to apply an elastic force to the retainer 450 in a direction that contacts the cam follower 124. The elastic member 453 can be made of various forms that can apply an elastic force to the retainer 450, such as a polymer or a spring.

[0136] The elastic member 453 applies an elastic force to the retainer 450, allowing the retainer 450 to move in the direction pushed by the cam follower 124 when it makes contact. Furthermore, the retainer 450 can return to its original position when the cam follower 124 separates from it.

[0137] The retainer 450 may be configured to be elastically deformable when the cam follower 124 makes contact with it. In this case, the elastic member 453 may be omitted.

[0138] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a retainer 450 positioned in a sharply bent portion of the cam rail 331 can support the cam follower 124. Therefore, when the cam follower 124 passes through the sharply bent portion of the cam rail 331, the problem of the cam follower 124 shaking or shifting can be prevented, and consequently, the shaking phenomenon of the display module 110 and the problem of not being able to bend the display module 110 to the target curvature can be prevented during the bending process of the display module 110.

[0139] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the rear. Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 9. Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Referring to Figures 9 to 11, another embodiment of the present invention, the display device 500, includes a display module 110 and a bending unit 520.

[0141] The bending unit 520 includes a pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 connected to the display module 110, cam followers 124 and 126 positioned on the pair of actuating arms 121 and 122 respectively, a cam wheel 330, and a drive unit 550 that provides rotational force to the cam wheel 330.

[0142] The first actuation arm 121 is fixed to the display module 110 by a bracket 521. The first actuation arm 121 includes a plurality of first actuation arm grooves 121a. The plurality of first actuation arm grooves 121a are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the first actuation arm 121. The first actuation arm grooves 121a are configured to extend parallel to the direction of movement of the first actuation arm 121. A plurality of guides 531, which are located on the back of the display module 110, are inserted into each of the plurality of first actuation arm grooves 121a.

[0143] Guide 531 guides the first actuation arm 121 to move linearly. Guide 531 is in the form of a pin that is inserted into the groove 121a of the first actuation arm. When the first actuation arm 121 receives a moving force from the cam wheel 330, the first actuation arm 121 is guided by the multiple guides 531 and can move linearly and stably. As a result, the first actuation arm 121 can smoothly bend one side portion of the display module 110 without twisting or uneven bending.

[0144] The second actuation arm 122 is fixed to the display module 110 by a bracket 522. The second actuation arm 122 includes a plurality of second actuation arm grooves 122a. The plurality of second actuation arm grooves 122a are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the second actuation arm 122. The second actuation arm grooves 122a are configured to extend parallel to the direction of movement of the second actuation arm 122. A plurality of guides 532, which are located on the back of the display module 110, are inserted into each of the plurality of second actuation arm grooves 122a.

[0145] Guide 532 guides the second actuation arm 122 to move linearly. Guide 532 is in the form of a pin that is inserted into the groove 122a of the second actuation arm. When the second actuation arm 122 receives a moving force from the cam wheel 330, the second actuation arm 122 is guided by the multiple guides 532 and can move linearly in a stable manner. As a result, the other side portion of the display module 110 can be smoothly bent without the second actuation arm 122 twisting or bending unevenly.

[0146] The guide structures for the first actuation arm 121 and the second actuation arm 122 can be modified in various ways. For example, the guides 531 and 532 that guide the first actuation arm 121 and the second actuation arm 122 can be transformed into grooves, rails, or other forms that guide the first actuation arm 121 and the second actuation arm 122. In this case, the first actuation arm 121 and the second actuation arm 122 can be modified accordingly.

[0147] The cam wheel 330 is as described above. The cam wheel 330 includes a first cam rail 331 into which a first cam follower 124 positioned on the first actuating arm 121 is inserted, and a second cam rail 332 into which a second cam follower 126 positioned on the second actuating arm 122 is inserted.

[0148] The cam wheel 330 rotates by receiving rotational force from the drive unit 550.

[0149] The drive unit 550 includes a drive source 551 that generates rotational force and a power transmission unit 552 that transmits the rotational force of the drive source 551 to the cam wheel 330.

[0150] The drive source 551 generates rotational force for the mechanical operation of the bending unit 520. Various types of power generating devices, such as motors, can be used as the drive source 551.

[0151] The power transmission unit 552 plays the role of efficiently transmitting the rotational force of the drive source 551 to the cam wheel 330. The power transmission unit 552 is configured to enable precise power transmission through sequentially connected gears. The power transmission unit 552 includes a drive gear 553 connected to the drive source 551, a driven gear 554 that meshes with the drive gear 553, a worm gear 555 connected to the driven gear 554, a wheel gear 556 that meshes with the worm gear 555, and a rotating member 557 coupled to the wheel gear 556.

[0152] The drive gear 553 is directly connected to the rotating shaft of the drive source 551 and receives rotational force transmission. The gears of the drive gear 553 mesh with the gears of the driven gear 554.

[0153] The driven gear 554 receives rotational force from the drive gear 553 and transmits it to the worm gear 555. The driven gear 554 can adjust rotational speed and torque through the gear ratio with the drive gear 553.

[0154] The worm gear 555 is positioned parallel to the central portion of the display module 110. The rotation axis of the worm gear 555 is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the cam wheel 330. This orthogonal arrangement has the effect of reducing the thickness of the bending unit 520. In other words, the arrangement of the worm gear 555 reduces the overall thickness of the drive unit 550, and as a result the display device 500 can be made even thinner and slimmer.

[0155] The meshing structure of the worm gear 555 and the wheel gear 556 allows for a large reduction ratio. Through this, the high-speed rotation of the drive source 551 can be converted into the precise low-speed rotation of the cam wheel 330. Furthermore, due to the characteristics of the worm gear 555 structure, reverse drive can be prevented, and the bending state of the display module 110 can be stably maintained.

[0156] A gear is formed on the outer surface of the wheel gear 556 that meshes with the worm gear 555. When the worm gear 555 rotates, the wheel gear 556 rotates through the meshing of this gear, and this rotational force is transmitted to the cam wheel 330. The wheel gear 556 protrudes from the outer surface of the cam wheel 330 so as to mesh with the worm gear 555.

[0157] The rotating member 557 is a component that rotates in conjunction with the wheel gear 556 and rotates together with the cam wheel 330. The cam wheel 330 and the rotating member 557 share a center of rotation. A rotation shaft 558 is positioned on the rotating member 557. The rotation shaft 558 connects the rotating member 557 and the cam wheel 330. The cam wheel 330 can rotate around the rotation shaft 558. The rotating member 557 is rotatably coupled to a mounting plate 560 which is fixed to the back of the display module 110.

[0158] The mounting plate 560 can be coupled to the stand 115 (see Figure 1). The stand 115 can be coupled to the display module 110 through the mounting plate 560. A drive source 551 and a worm gear 555 are arranged on the mounting plate 560.

[0159] The drive unit 550 can be controlled by the control unit to rotate the cam wheel 330 clockwise or counterclockwise by a preset angle. By rotating the cam wheel 330, the display module 110 can be folded or restored to its original shape. Furthermore, by adjusting the rotation angle of the cam wheel 330, the curvature of the display module 110 can be varied in various ways.

[0160] Furthermore, the drive unit 550 can restrain the rotation of the cam wheel 330 when it is not in operation. When the drive unit 550 rotates the cam wheel 330 by a preset angle and the display module 110 is folded, the display module 110 will have a force that tries to restore it to its original shape. As a result, the cam wheel 330 will receive torque in the opposite direction. At this time, the drive unit 550 can maintain the display module 110 in the folded state by restraining the rotation of the cam wheel 330.

[0161] The specific configuration of the drive unit 550 is not limited to that shown in the figures. For example, the power transmission unit 552 may be modified to include other gear coupling structures, link coupling structures, etc., that can transmit the rotational force of the drive source 551 to the cam wheel 330, without including the worm gear 555 and the wheel gear 556. Also, gears constituting the wheel gear may be integrally arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member 557.

[0162] Another embodiment of the display device 500 allows switching between a basic mode and a bending mode. Such mode switching can be performed by a bending unit 520.

[0163] The mode switching of the display device 500 begins with the operation of the drive source 551.

[0164] When switching from basic mode to bending mode, the drive source 551 activates, causing the worm gear 555 to rotate, and the rotational force of the worm gear 555 is transmitted to the wheel gear 556. The wheel gear 556 then rotates the cam wheel 330.

[0165] As explained earlier, the rotation of the cam wheel 330 causes the first cam follower 124 to convert the rotational motion of the cam wheel 330 into linear motion of the first actuating arm 121, and the second cam follower 126 to convert the rotational motion of the cam wheel 330 into linear motion of the second actuating arm 122, thereby allowing the display module 110 to be bent.

[0166] Furthermore, the display module 110 can be transformed into a full bending mode, a first partial bending mode, and a second partial bending mode depending on the rotation direction and angle of the cam wheel 330.

[0167] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the curvature of the display module 110 can be further varied by the bending unit 520, providing an optimal viewing experience according to the user's preferences and viewing environment.

[0168] Furthermore, in another embodiment of the present invention, the rotational force of the drive source 551 can be transmitted to the cam wheel 330 through a worm gear 555 that is arranged perpendicular to the rotational axis of the cam wheel 330. Therefore, the display device 500 can be made even thinner and slimmer. Also, due to the characteristics of the worm gear 555 structure, reverse drive can be prevented and the bending state of the display module 110 can be stably maintained.

[0169] Embodiments of the present invention can also be described as follows.

[0170] A display device according to one embodiment of this specification includes a display module and a bending unit for bending the display module, the bending unit may include a cam wheel rotatably positioned on the back of the display module and an actuating arm connected to the display module to bend the display module and moving linearly by the rotation of the cam wheel.

[0171] According to other features of this specification, the display device may further include a drive unit that provides rotational force to the cam wheel.

[0172] According to other features of this specification, the drive unit may include a wheel gear connected to the cam wheel so as to share a center of rotation with the cam wheel, a worm gear meshing with the wheel gear, and a drive source connected to the worm gear.

[0173] According to other features of this specification, the worm gear may be positioned perpendicular to the rotational axis of the cam wheel.

[0174] Other embodiments of this specification include a display module and a bending unit positioned on the back of the display module for bending the display module, the bending unit including a cam wheel with a first cam rail and a second cam rail, a first actuating arm and a second actuating arm connected to the display module, respectively, a first cam follower connected to the first actuating arm so as to move along the first cam rail and converting the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the first actuating arm, and a second cam follower connected to the second actuating arm so as to move along the second cam rail and converting the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the second actuating arm.

[0175] According to other features of this specification, one end of the first cam rail and one end of the second cam rail may be located on a virtual first concentric circle that shares a center of rotation with the cam wheel, and the other end of the first cam rail and the other end of the second cam rail may be located on a virtual second concentric circle that is larger than the first concentric circle and shares a center of rotation with the cam wheel.

[0176] According to other features of this specification, the second cam rail may have an arc shape positioned on the first concentric circle.

[0177] According to other features of this specification, the patterns of the first cam rail and the second cam rail may differ from each other, with a portion of the first cam rail located on a virtual first concentric circle sharing a center of rotation with the cam wheel, another portion of the first cam rail located on a virtual second concentric circle larger than the first concentric circle and sharing a center of rotation with the cam wheel, a portion of the second cam rail located on the first concentric circle, and another portion of the second cam rail located on the second concentric circle.

[0178] According to other features of this specification, the bending unit is configured to switch bending modes for a display module, the bending modes may include a first partial bending mode that bends one side portion of the display module, a second partial bending mode that bends the other side portion of the display module, and a whole bending mode that bends both sides of the display module.

[0179] According to other features of this specification, in a first partial bending mode, the second cam follower is located on a first concentric circle, and the first actuating arm bends one side portion of the display module; in a second partial bending mode, the first cam follower is located on a first concentric circle, and the second cam follower is located on a second concentric circle, and the second actuating arm bends the other side portion of the display module; and in a full bending mode, both the first and second cam followers are located on the second concentric circle, and the first and second actuating arms bend both side portions of the display module.

[0180] According to other features of this specification, the first cam rail may include a first end section located on a first concentric circle, a second end section located on a second concentric circle, a plurality of curved sections connecting the first end section and the second end section, and at least one turning section positioned between the plurality of curved sections.

[0181] According to other features of this specification, the turning section may be positioned on a first concentric circle or a second concentric circle.

[0182] According to other features of this specification, the plurality of curve sections include a first curve section connected to a first end section, a second curve section connected to a second end section, and a third curve section connecting the first curve section and the second curve section, wherein the first curve section and the third curve section are connected through a first turning section located on a second concentric circle, and the second curve section and the third curve section may be connected through a second turning section located on the first concentric circle.

[0183] According to other features of this specification, the second cam rail may include a third end section and a fourth end section spaced apart on a second concentric circle, a fourth curved section connected to the third end section, a fifth curved section connected to the fourth end section, a sixth curved section connecting the fourth and fifth curved sections, a third turning section positioned on a first concentric circle to connect the fourth and sixth curved sections, and a fourth turning section positioned on a first concentric circle to connect the fifth and sixth curved sections.

[0184] According to other features of this specification, the display device may further include a retainer having a support surface positioned in the turning section to support the first cam follower so that the first cam follower does not shift toward the rotation center of the cam wheel in the turning section.

[0185] According to other features of this specification, the display device may further include an elastic member positioned to apply an elastic force to the retainer in a direction that contacts the first cam follower.

[0186] Although embodiments of this specification have been described in more detail above with reference to the attached drawings, this specification is not necessarily limited to these embodiments and can be modified and implemented in various ways within the scope of the technical concept of this specification. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only, not to limit the technical concept of this specification, and the scope of the technical concept of this specification is not limited by such embodiments. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. Display module, and Includes a bending unit for bending the aforementioned display module, The aforementioned bending unit is A cam wheel rotatably positioned on the back of the display module, and A display device including an actuation arm connected to the display module in such a manner as to bend the display module, and which moves linearly by the rotation of the cam wheel.

2. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a drive unit that provides rotational force to the cam wheel.

3. The aforementioned drive unit is A wheel gear connected to the cam wheel so as to share a center of rotation with the cam wheel, A worm gear that meshes with the wheel gear, and The display device according to claim 2, comprising a drive source connected to the worm gear.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the worm gear is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the cam wheel.

5. Display module, and The display module is positioned on the back of the display module and includes a bending unit for bending the display module, The aforementioned bending unit is Cam wheel including first cam rail and second cam rail, A first operating arm and a second operating arm are connected to the display module, respectively. A first cam follower is connected to the first actuating arm so as to move along the first cam rail and converts the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the first actuating arm, and A display device comprising a second cam follower connected to the second actuating arm so as to move along the second cam rail, and which converts the rotational motion of the cam wheel into linear motion of the second actuating arm.

6. The first end of the first cam rail and the first end of the second cam rail are located on a virtual first concentric circle that shares a rotation center with the cam wheel, The second end of the first cam rail and the second end of the second cam rail are located on a virtual second concentric circle. The display device according to claim 5, wherein the virtual second concentric circle shares a center of rotation with the cam wheel and is larger than the virtual first concentric circle.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the second cam rail has an arc shape that is positioned on the virtual first concentric circle.

8. The shapes of the first cam rail and the second cam rail are different from each other. The first portion of the first cam rail is located on a virtual first concentric circle that shares a center of rotation with the cam wheel, and the second portion of the first cam rail is located on a virtual second concentric circle that shares a center of rotation with the cam wheel and is larger than the virtual first concentric circle. The display device according to claim 5, wherein the first portion of the second cam rail is located on the virtual first concentric circle, and the second portion of the second cam rail is located on the virtual second concentric circle.

9. The bending unit is configured to switch the bending mode for the display module, The aforementioned bending mode is, A first partial bending mode in which the first side portion of the display module is folded, A second partial bending mode in which the second side portion of the display module is folded, and The display device according to claim 8, comprising an overall bending mode in which both the first side portion and the second side portion of the display module are bent.

10. In the first partial bending mode, the second cam follower is positioned on the virtual first concentric circle, and the first cam follower is positioned on the virtual second concentric circle, and the first actuation arm bends the first side portion of the display module. In the second partial bending mode, the first cam follower is positioned on the virtual first concentric circle, the second cam follower is positioned on the virtual second concentric circle, and the second actuation arm bends the second side portion of the display module. The display device according to claim 9, wherein in the overall bending mode, both the first cam follower and the second cam follower are located on the virtual second concentric circle, and the first actuating arm and the second actuating arm bend both the first side portion and the second side portion of the display module.

11. The first cam rail is, The first end section located on the aforementioned virtual first concentric circle, The second end section located on the aforementioned virtual second concentric circle, A plurality of curved sections connecting the first end section and the second end section, and The display device according to claim 8, comprising at least one turning section positioned between the plurality of curve sections.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the at least one turning section is arranged on the virtual first concentric circle or the virtual second concentric circle.

13. The aforementioned multiple curve sections are A first curved section connected to the first end section, A second curved section connected to the second end section, and It includes a third curved section connecting the first curved section and the second curved section, The first curved section and the third curved section are connected through a first turning section located on the virtual second concentric circle, The display device according to claim 12, wherein the second curve section and the third curve section are connected through a second turning section located on the virtual first concentric circle.

14. The aforementioned second cam rail is The third and fourth end sections are spaced apart on the aforementioned virtual second concentric circle, A fourth curved section connected to the third end section, A fifth curved section connected to the fourth end section, A sixth curved section connecting the fourth curved section and the fifth curved section, A third turning section is positioned on the virtual first concentric circle so as to connect the fourth curve section and the sixth curve section, and The display device according to claim 13, further comprising a fourth turning section positioned on the virtual first concentric circle so as to connect the fifth curve section and the sixth curve section.

15. The display device according to claim 12, further comprising a retainer having a support surface positioned in the at least one turning section to support the first cam follower so that it does not shift toward the rotation center of the cam wheel.

16. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising an elastic member disposed to apply an elastic force to the retainer in a direction that contacts the first cam follower.

17. Display module, and Includes a bending unit positioned on the surface of the display module and configured to bend the display module, The aforementioned bending unit is Cam wheel including first cam rail and second cam rail, A first cam follower connected to the first cam rail, A second cam follower connected to the second cam rail, A first actuation arm connected to the first cam follower and the first side portion of the display module, configured to apply a force that bends the first side portion of the display module, and The system includes a second actuation arm connected to the second cam follower and the second side portion of the display module, configured to apply a force that bends the second side portion of the display module, The display module is a display device that is bent by the movement of the first actuating arm and the movement of the second actuating arm, which are generated by the rotational motion of the cam wheel, by at least one of the movement of the first cam follower along the first cam rail and the movement of the second cam follower along the second cam rail.

18. As the first rotational motion of the cam wheel causes the first cam follower to move from a virtual first concentric circle to a virtual second concentric circle, and when the second cam follower remains on the virtual first concentric circle, the first side portion of the display module is bent, and the second side portion of the display module is not bent. As the second rotational motion of the cam wheel causes the first cam follower to move from the virtual second concentric circle to the virtual first concentric circle, and when the second cam follower moves from the virtual first concentric circle to the virtual second concentric circle, the first side portion of the display module is not bent, and the second side portion of the display module is bent. The aforementioned virtual second concentric circle is larger than the aforementioned virtual first concentric circle. The display device according to claim 17, wherein the virtual first concentric circle and the virtual second concentric circle share a center of rotation with the cam wheel.

19. As the rotational motion of the cam wheel causes the first cam follower to move from a virtual first concentric circle to a virtual second concentric circle, and as the second cam follower moves from the virtual first concentric circle to the virtual second concentric circle, the first side portion of the display module is bent, and the second side portion of the display module is bent. The aforementioned virtual second concentric circle is larger than the aforementioned virtual first concentric circle. The display device according to claim 17, wherein the virtual first concentric circle and the virtual second concentric circle share a center of rotation with the cam wheel.

20. The display device according to claim 17, wherein, due to the rotational motion of the cam wheel, the first cam follower moves from a first position on the cam wheel to a second position on the cam wheel, and the second cam follower moves from a third position on the cam wheel to a fourth position on the cam wheel, the first side portion of the display module is bent, and the second side portion of the display module is bent.

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