Indication device

Abstract

The display device includes a display panel comprising a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion between the first and second non-folding portions, and a barrier layer disposed beneath the display panel, wherein the barrier layer may include a first barrier layer disposed beneath the first non-folding portion, a second barrier layer disposed beneath the second non-folding portion, and a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first and second barrier layers and projecting downward from the lower surface of the folding portion.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation systems, and smart TVs that provide images to users include a display device for displaying images. The display device generates an image and provides the image to the user through a display screen.

[0003] Recently, with the technological development of display devices, various forms of display devices have been developed. For example, various flexible display devices that can be deformed into a curved shape, folded, or rolled up have been developed. The flexible display device is easy to carry and can improve the convenience of the user.

[0004] Among flexible display devices, a folding (foldable) display device is folded based on a folding axis. A technology that can easily fold the folding display device is required.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device including a folding portion that can be easily folded.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel including a first non-folding portion, a second non-folding portion, and a folding portion between the first and second non-folding portions, and a barrier layer disposed below the display panel, wherein the barrier layer may include a first barrier layer disposed below the first non-folding portion, a second barrier layer disposed below the second non-folding portion, and a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first and second barrier layers and protruding downward from the lower surface of the folding portion.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a display panel, a first barrier layer disposed below the display panel, a second barrier layer disposed below the display panel and spaced apart from the first barrier layer in a first direction horizontal to the plane of the display panel, a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first and second barrier layers and projecting downward from the lower surface of the display panel, and a dummy layer disposed between the plurality of protrusions and the display panel.

[0008] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes (1) a display panel including a folding portion, (2) a support plate disposed below the display panel and including an opening that overlaps with the folding portion in a plan view, (3) a first barrier layer disposed between the display panel and the support plate, (4) a second barrier layer disposed between the display panel and the support plate and separated from the first barrier layer in a first direction horizontal to the plane of the display panel, and (5) a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first and second barrier layers and projecting downward from the lower surface of the display panel, wherein the plurality of protrusions can overlap with the opening in a plan view. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, a highly elastic barrier layer is placed beneath the display panel, and the barrier layer may include protrusions that overlap the folding portion of the display panel. The folding portion can be easily folded by not placing the barrier layer over the entire lower surface of the folding portion, but only partially placing the protrusions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram (1) showing the folding state of the display device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the folding state of the display device. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the display device shown. [Figure 5] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the line I-I' shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic panel shown. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of the display panel shown. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic cross-section of an electronic panel corresponding to any one of the pixels shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the support plate shown. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a schematic enlarged view of the first region A1 shown in the diagram. [Figure 11] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the folding state of the display device. [Figure 12] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the planar configuration of the barrier layer. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a schematic enlarged view of the second region A2 shown in the diagram. [Figure 14]It is a schematic cross-sectional view of line II-II' shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 15] It is a schematic drawing showing an inkjet printing device arranged on the back surface of a display panel to form the barrier layer shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 16] It is a schematic drawing for explaining the step of forming a first barrier layer on the first non-folding portion of a display panel. [Figure 17A] It is a schematic drawing (1) for explaining the step of forming a second barrier layer on the folding portion of a display panel. [Figure 17B] It is a schematic drawing (2) for explaining the step of forming a second barrier layer on the folding portion of a display panel. [Figure 18] When using a barrier layer and a panel protection film having various moduli, it is a schematic drawing showing the deformation rate of a display panel following a pendulum drop. [Figure 19] It is a schematic drawing (1) showing the configuration of a barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 20] It is a schematic drawing (2) showing the configuration of a barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 21] It is a schematic drawing (3) showing the configuration of a barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 22] It is a schematic drawing (4) showing the configuration of a barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 23] It is a schematic drawing (5) showing the configuration of a barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] In this specification, when a predetermined component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is described as being "on", "connected to", or "coupled to" another component, it means that it can be directly arranged / connected / coupled on the other component, or a third component can also be arranged between them.

[0012] The same reference numerals denote the same components. Also, in the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and dimensions of the components are exaggerated for the efficient explanation of the technical content.

[0013] "And / or" includes all combinations of one or more of the associated components that can be defined.

[0014] Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be referred to as the first component. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless clearly expressed differently in context.

[0015] Also, terms such as "below", "beneath", "above", "over", etc. are used to explain the association relationship of the configurations illustrated in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the directions shown in the drawings.

[0016] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Also, terms such as those defined in a dictionary and commonly used should be construed to have a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the related art, and should not be construed in an overly ideal or formal sense unless explicitly defined.

[0017] Terms such as “includes” or “possesses” are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, and should be understood not to preemptively exclude the presence or possibility of adding one or more other features, numbers, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Referring to Figure 1, the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a rectangular shape with a short side extending in a first direction DR1 and a long side extending in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. However, it is not limited to this, and the display device DD may have various shapes such as circles and polygons. The display device DD may be a flexible display device.

[0021] Hereinafter, the direction that intersects substantially perpendicularly with the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as the third direction DR3.

[0022] The display device DD may include a folding section FA and a plurality of non-folding sections NFA1, NFA2 adjacent to the folding section FA. The non-folding sections NFA1, NFA2 may include a first non-folding section NFA1 and a second non-folding section NFA2. The folding section FA may be positioned between the first non-folding section NFA1 and the second non-folding section NFA2. The first non-folding section NFA1, the folding section FA, and the second non-folding section NFA2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0023] Exemplary, one folding section FA and two non-folding sections NFA1 and NFA2 are shown, but the number of folding sections FA and non-folding sections NFA1 and NFA2 is not limited thereto. For example, the display device DD may include two or more non-folding sections and one or more folding sections positioned between the non-folding sections.

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

[0025] The display surface DS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may display an image, while the non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA and define a frame for the display device DD, which is printed in a color (e.g., a predetermined or selectable color).

[0026] Although not shown, the display device DD may include at least one sensor and at least one camera. The sensor is a near-light sensor, but the type of sensor is not limited to this. The camera may capture, record, or photograph external images.

[0027] Figures 2 and 3 are schematic diagrams showing the folded state of the display device shown in Figure 1.

[0028] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the display device DD may be a foldable display device DD that can be folded or unfolded. For example, the display device DD may be folded by bending the folding section FA with respect to a folding axis FX that extends parallel to the second direction DR2. The folding axis FX can be defined as a major axis parallel to the long side of the display device DD.

[0029] When the display device DD is folded, the first non-folding portion NFA1 and the second non-folding portion NFA2 face each other, and the display device DD can be in-folded so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the display device DD may be out-folded around the folding axis FX so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside.

[0030] The folding section FA can be bent to have a radius of curvature R1. As shown in Figure 2, the distance between the first non-folding section NFA1 and the second non-folding section NFA2 may be substantially the same as twice the radius of curvature R1 (e.g., the diameter). The display device DD can be folded into a "U" shape.

[0031] However, it is not limited to this, and as shown in Figure 3, the distance between the first non-folding part NFA1 and the second non-folding part NFA2 may be less than twice the radius of curvature R1. The display device DD can be folded into a dumbbell shape.

[0032] Figure 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the display device shown in Figure 1.

[0033] Referring to Figure 4, the display device DD may include a display module DM, an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and a case EDC. Although not shown separately, the display device DD may further include a fixture structure (e.g., a hinge) for controlling the folding operation of the display module DM.

[0034] The display module DM may include a window WIN and a display panel DP located below the window WIN. The display panel DP can generate images. The display panel DP may include a display area DA (see Figure 1) and a non-display area NDA (see Figure 1) corresponding to the display device DD. It is possible that an image is generated in the display area DA and not in the non-display area NDA.

[0035] The window WIN can define the front of the display device DD. The window WIN can be positioned on the display panel DP to protect the display panel DP. The window WIN can transmit light generated by the display panel DP to the user.

[0036] For illustrative purposes, Figure 4 shows only the window WIN and display panel DP within the stacked structure of the display module DM; however, the display module DM can further include various other components besides the window WIN and display panel DP. The detailed stacked structure of the display module DM is described in detail below.

[0037] The display module DM may include a data drive unit DDV located on the non-display area NDA of the display panel DP. The data drive unit DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the non-display area NDA. However, it is not limited to this, and the data drive unit DDV may be mounted on a flexible circuit board electrically connected to the display panel DP.

[0038] The electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM may be located beneath the display module DM. Although not shown, the electronic module EM and the power supply module PSM can be electrically connected to each other via a separate flexible circuit board. The electronic module EM can control the operation of the display module DM. The power supply module PSM can supply power to the display module DM.

[0039] The case EDC can house the display module DM, the electronic module EM, and the power module PSM. The case EDC may include two first and second cases EDC1 and EDC2 to fold the display module DM. The first and second cases EDC1 and EDC2 may be extended in the second direction DR2 and arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0040] Although not shown in the diagram, the display device DD may further include a hinge structure for connecting the first and second cases EDC1 and EDC2. The case EDC can protect the display module DM, the electronic module EM, and the power module PSM.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the line I-I' shown in Figure 1.

[0042] For illustrative purposes, Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-section of the display module DM as viewed from the second direction DR2. The protruding portion of the display panel DP, where the data drive unit DDV is located, as shown in Figure 4, can be defined as the second region AA2 shown in Figure 7, and is omitted in Figure 5 for the sake of simplicity.

[0043] Referring to Figure 5, the display device DD may include a display module DM and a support plate PLT positioned below the display module DM to support it. The display module DM may be a flexible display module. The display module DM may include a first non-folding section NFA1, a folding section FA, and a second non-folding section NFA2, as in the display device DD.

[0044] The display module DM may include an electronic panel EP, an impact absorption layer ISL, a window WIN, a window protection layer WP, a hard coating layer HC, a barrier layer BRL, and first to fourth adhesive layers AL1 to AL4.

[0045] The electronic panel EP can display images, sense external inputs, and reduce the reflectivity of external light. The configuration of such an electronic panel EP is described in detail in Figure 6 below. The electronic panel EP may include a display panel DP as shown in Figure 4. The electronic panel EP may include a first non-folding section NFA1, a folding section FA, and a second non-folding section NFA2, as in the display device DD.

[0046] The shock-absorbing layer (ISL) can be placed on the electronic panel (EP). The ISL can protect the electronic panel (EP) by absorbing external shocks applied from the display device (DD) towards the electronic panel (EP). The ISL can be manufactured in the form of a stretched film.

[0047] The impact-absorbing layer (ISL) may contain a flexible plastic material. A flexible plastic material can be defined as a synthetic resin film. For example, the impact-absorbing layer (ISL) may contain a flexible plastic material such as polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0048] WindowWIN can be placed on the impact absorption layer ISL. WindowWIN can protect the electronic panel EP from external scratches. WindowWIN can be optically transparent. WindowWIN may include glass, but is not limited to glass; WindowWIN may also include a synthetic resin film.

[0049] WindowWIN can have a multilayer or single-layer structure. For example, WindowWIN may include a synthetic resin film bonded with an adhesive, or it may include a glass substrate bonded with an adhesive and a synthetic resin film.

[0050] The window protection layer WP may be placed on top of the window WIN. The window protection layer WP may contain a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. The hard coating layer HC may be placed on the upper surface of the window protection layer WP.

[0051] The printing layer PIT may be positioned on the underside of the window protection layer WP. The printing layer PIT may be black, but its color is not limited to black. The printing layer PIT may be adjacent to the frame of the window protection layer WP.

[0052] The barrier layer BRL may be placed beneath the electronic panel EP. The barrier layer BRL can increase resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure or impact. For example, the barrier layer BRL can improve the impact resistance of the display module DM. Therefore, the barrier layer BRL can help prevent deformation of the electronic panel EP.

[0053] The barrier layer BRL may contain POSS (Polyheadral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane; cage-type silsesquioxane), but the material of the barrier layer BRL is not limited to this. The barrier layer BRL can have a high modulus. For example, the barrier layer can have a modulus of 1 gigapascal (GPa) to 5 gigapascals (GPa).

[0054] The barrier layer BRL can be coated onto the underside of the electronic panel EP. For example, the barrier layer BRL can be directly placed on the underside of the electronic panel EP. A fluid resin can be applied to the underside of the electronic panel EP and cured to form the barrier layer BRL.

[0055] The barrier layer BRL may include a first barrier layer BRL1, a second barrier layer BRL2, and one or more protrusions PRT. The protrusions PRT may be positioned between the first barrier layer BRL1 and the second barrier layer BRL2 in a first direction DR1. The first barrier layer BRL1, the protrusions PRT, and the second barrier layer BRL2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0056] The first barrier layer BRL1 may be located beneath the first non-folding portion NFA1 of the electronic panel EP. The second barrier layer BRL2 may be located beneath the second non-folding portion NFA2 of the electronic panel EP. The protruding portion PRT may project downward from the lower surface of the folding portion FA of the electronic panel EP in a schematic cross-sectional view. The protruding portion PRT may have a shape that bulges downward in a schematic cross-sectional view.

[0057] The first barrier layer BRL1 can be superimposed on the first non-folding portion NFA1 of the electronic panel EP in the thickness direction and in a plan view. The second barrier layer BRL2 can be superimposed on the second non-folding portion NFA2 of the electronic panel EP in the thickness direction and in a plan view. The protrusions PRT can be superimposed (overlapped) on the folding portion FA of the electronic panel EP in the thickness direction and in a plan view. Exemplarily, three protrusions PRT are shown in the second direction DR2, but substantially more protrusions PRT may be positioned beneath the folding portion FA.

[0058] The support plate PLT may be placed beneath the barrier layer BRL. The support plate PLT can support the electronic panel EP. The support plate PLT may be more rigid than the electronic panel EP. The support plate PLT may contain non-metallic materials.

[0059] The support plate PLT may include a reinforced fiber composite material. This reinforced fiber composite material may be carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP). However, it is not limited to these; the support plate PLT may also include metallic materials such as stainless steel.

[0060] Multiple openings OP may be defined in the portion of the support plate PLT that overlaps the folding portion FA in the thickness direction and in a plan view. The openings OP may be formed penetrating the portion of the support plate PLT in a third direction DR3. The openings OP may overlap the protruding portion PRT in the thickness direction and in a plan view.

[0061] The support plate PLT may include a first non-folding portion NFP1, a folding portion FP, and a second non-folding portion NFP2. The folding portion FP may be positioned between the first non-folding portion NFP1 and the second non-folding portion NFP2. The first non-folding portion NFP1, the folding portion FP, and the second non-folding portion NFP2 may be arranged in a first direction DR1.

[0062] In the thickness direction and in a plan view, the first non-folding portion NFP1 may be superimposed on the first non-folding portion NFA1, the folding portion FP may be superimposed on the folding portion FA, and the second non-folding portion NFP2 may be superimposed on the second non-folding portion NFA2. The opening OP may be partitioned (defined) in the folding portion FP.

[0063] When the display module DM is folded, the folding section FP may be bent to have a curvature (e.g., a predetermined or selectable curvature). The flexibility of the folding section FP may be increased by the partitioning (definition) of the opening OP within the folding section FP. The increased flexibility of the folding section FP allows the support plate PLT to be easily folded as it is easily bent.

[0064] When the display module DM is folded, the highly elastic barrier layer BRL may make the folding operation difficult. In embodiments of the present invention, the material forming the barrier layer BRL is not entirely distributed over the entire lower surface of the folding portion FA of the electronic panel EP, but can be distributed only partially. For example, the protruding portion PRT may be distributed over the folding portion FA. By increasing the flexibility of the barrier layer BRL in the folding portion FA, the display module DM can be folded more easily.

[0065] The first adhesive layer AL1 is positioned and floats between the window protection layer WP and the window WIN. The first adhesive layer AL1 can cause the window protection layer WP and the window WIN to adhere to each other. The first adhesive layer AL1 can cover the printed layer PIT.

[0066] The second adhesive layer AL2 may be placed between the window WIN and the impact absorption layer ISL. The second adhesive layer AL2 may cause the window WIN and the impact absorption layer ISL to bond to each other.

[0067] The third adhesive layer AL3 may be placed between the shock-absorbing layer ISL and the electronic panel EP. The third adhesive layer AL3 may bond the shock-absorbing layer ISL and the electronic panel EP together.

[0068] A fourth adhesive layer AL4 may be placed between the barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT. The barrier layer BRL and the support plate PLT may be bonded together by the fourth adhesive layer AL4. The bottom or lower part of the protruding portion PRT may be in direct contact with the fourth adhesive layer AL4.

[0069] The first to fourth adhesive layers AL1 to AL4 may include, but are not limited to, transparent adhesives such as pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA) or optically clear adhesives (OCA).

[0070] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic panel shown in Figure 5.

[0071] For illustrative purposes, Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-section of the electronic panel EP as viewed from the second direction DR2.

[0072] Referring to Figure 6, the electronic panel EP may include a display panel DP, an input sensing unit ISP disposed on the display panel DP, and an anti-reflective layer RPL disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel DP may include a flexible substrate and one or more elements disposed on the flexible substrate. The display panel DP may include a first non-folding unit NFA1, a folding unit FA, and a second non-folding unit NFA2, as in the display device DD.

[0073] The display panel DP according to one embodiment of the present invention is a light-emitting display panel, but is not limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of an organic light-emitting display panel may contain organic light-emitting materials. The light-emitting layer of an inorganic light-emitting display panel may contain quantum dots and quantum rods, etc. Hereinafter, the display panel DP will be described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0074] The barrier layer BRL may be placed beneath the display panel DP. The barrier layer BRL may be coated onto the underside BS of the display panel DP. The barrier layer BRL may be placed directly on the underside BS of the display panel DP. A fluid resin may be applied to the underside BS of the display panel DP and cured to form the barrier layer BRL. Thus, the first and second barrier layers BRL1, BRL2 and the protrusion PRT may be placed directly on the underside BS of the display panel DP.

[0075] The first barrier layer BRL1 may be positioned in the thickness direction beneath the first non-folding portion NFA1 of the display panel DP, and the second barrier layer BRL2 may be positioned in the thickness direction beneath the second non-folding portion NFA2 of the display panel DP. The protrusion PRT may be positioned in the thickness direction beneath the folding portion FA of the display panel DP. The protrusion PRT may protrude convexly downward from the lower surface of the folding portion FA of the display panel DP.

[0076] The second barrier layer BRL2 may be separated from the first barrier layer BRL1 in a first direction DR1. The first direction DR1 may be defined as the direction horizontal to the plane of the display panel DP.

[0077] In the thickness direction and in a plan view, the first barrier layer BRL1 can be superimposed on the first non-folding portion NFA1 of the display panel DP, and the second barrier layer BRL2 can be superimposed on the second non-folding portion NFA2 of the display panel DP. In the thickness direction and in a plan view, the protruding portion PRT can be superimposed on the folding portion FA of the display panel DP.

[0078] The first barrier layer BRL1 may be placed over the entire lower surface of the first non-folding portion NFA1 (or placed flatly). The second barrier layer BRL2 may be placed over the entire lower surface of the second non-folding portion NFA2 (or placed flatly).

[0079] The input sensing unit (ISP) may include a sensor unit (not shown) for sensing external inputs using a capacitive method. The input sensing unit (ISP) may be formed directly on the display panel (DP) when manufacturing the display module (DM).

[0080] The anti-reflective layer RPL may be placed on the input sensing unit ISP. The anti-reflective layer RPL may be formed directly on the input sensing unit ISP during the manufacturing of the display module DM. The anti-reflective layer RPL may be defined as an external light anti-reflective film. The anti-reflective layer RPL can reduce the reflectivity of incident external light from the display device DD toward the display panel DP.

[0081] Exemplarily, the input sensing unit ISP is formed directly on the display panel DP, and the anti-reflective layer RPL is formed directly on the input sensing unit ISP, but the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the input sensing unit ISP may be manufactured separately and attached to the display panel DP by an adhesive layer, and the anti-reflective layer RPL may be manufactured separately and attached to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer.

[0082] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of the display panel shown in Figure 6.

[0083] Referring to Figure 7, the display module DM can include a display panel DP, a scanning driver SDV, a data driver DDV, and an emission driver EDV.

[0084] The display panel DP may include a first region AA1, a second region AA2, and a bending region BA between the first region AA1 and the second region AA2. The bending region BA may extend in the second direction DR2, and the first region AA1, the bending region BA, and the second region AA2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1.

[0085] The first region AA1 may include a display region DA and a non-display region NDA surrounding the display region DA. The non-display region NDA may enclose the display region DA. The display region DA is the region where the image is displayed, and the non-display region NDA may be the region where the image is not displayed. The second region AA2 and the bending region BA may be non-display regions NDA where the image is not displayed.

[0086] The first region AA1, when viewed in the second direction DR2, may include a first non-folding portion NFA1, a second non-folding portion NFA2, and a folding portion FA between the first non-folding portion NFA1 and the second non-folding portion NFA2.

[0087] The display panel DP may include pixels PX, scan lines SL1-SLm, data lines DL1-DLn, light-emitting lines EL1-ELm, first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2, power line PL, coupling line CNL, and pad PD. Variables m and n are natural numbers. Pixels PX are located in the display area DA and may be coupled to scan lines SL1-SLm, data lines DL1-DLn, and light-emitting lines EL1-ELm.

[0088] The scanning drive unit SDV and the light emission drive unit EDV may be located in the non-display area NDA. The scanning drive unit SDV and the light emission drive unit EDV may be located in the non-display area NDA adjacent to each other on both sides of the first area AA1, which faces each other in the second direction DR2. The data drive unit DDV may be located in the second area AA2. The data drive unit DDV may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the second area AA2.

[0089] The bending region BA can be bent, and the second region AA2 can be positioned below the first region AA1. Therefore, the data drive unit DDV, which is implemented in the second region AA2, can be positioned below the first region AA1. For illustrative purposes, the bending region BA and the second region AA2 of the display panel DP are omitted in Figure 5.

[0090] Scanning lines SL1 to SLm can be extended in the second direction DR2 and electrically connected to the scanning drive unit SDV. Data lines DL1 to DLn can be extended in the first direction DR1 and electrically connected to the data drive unit DDV via the bending region BA. Light emission lines EL1 to ELm can be extended in the second direction DR2 and electrically connected to the light emission drive unit EDV.

[0091] The power line PL may be extended in the first direction DR1 and placed in the non-display area NDA. The power line PL is located between the display area DA and the light-emitting drive unit EDV, but is not limited to this; the power line PL may also be located between the display area DA and the scanning drive unit SDV.

[0092] The power line PL can be extended to the second region AA2 via the bending region BA. In a plan view, the power line PL can be extended toward the lower end of the second region AA2. The power line PL can receive the drive voltage.

[0093] The coupling line CNL may extend in the second direction DR2 and be arranged in the first direction DR1. The coupling line CNL may be electrically connected to the power line PL and the pixel PX. The drive voltage may be applied to the pixel PX through the power line PL and the coupling line CNL, which are electrically connected to each other.

[0094] The first control line CSL1 is electrically connected to the scanning drive unit SDV and may extend through the bending region BA toward the lower end of the second region AA2. The second control line CSL2 is electrically connected to the light emission drive unit EDV and may extend through the bending region BA toward the lower end of the second region AA2. The data drive unit DDV may be positioned between the first control line CSL1 and the second control line CSL2.

[0095] In a plan view, the pad PD may be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the second region AA2. The data drive unit DDV, power line PL, first control line CSL1, and second control line CSL2 may be electrically connected to the pad PD.

[0096] Data lines DL1 to DLn can be electrically connected to the corresponding pads PD via a data drive unit DDV. For example, data lines DL1 to DLn can be electrically connected to the data drive unit DDV, and the data drive unit DDV can be electrically connected to the pads PD corresponding to each of the data lines DL1 to DLn.

[0097] Although not shown in the diagram, a printed circuit board may be electrically connected to the pad PD, and a timing controller and voltage generator may be arranged on the printed circuit board. The timing controller may be manufactured as an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the printed circuit board. The timing controller and voltage generator may be electrically connected to the pad PD through the printed circuit board.

[0098] The timing controller can control the operation of the scanning drive unit SDV, the data drive unit DDV, and the light emission drive unit EDV. The timing controller can generate scanning control signals, data control signals, and light emission control signals in response to control signals received from an external source. The voltage generation unit can generate drive voltages.

[0099] Scanning control signals may be provided to the scanning drive unit SDV via the first control line CSL1. Light emission control signals may be provided to the light emission drive unit EDV via the second control line CSL2. Data control signals may be provided to the data drive unit DDV. The timing controller can receive image signals from an external source, convert the data format of the image signals to match the interface specifications with the data drive unit DDV, and provide them to the data drive unit DDV.

[0100] The scanning drive unit (SDV) can generate scanning signals in response to scanning control signals. These scanning signals can be applied to pixels PX through scanning lines SL1 to SLm. The scanning signals can be applied to pixels PX sequentially.

[0101] The data drive unit DDV can generate a data voltage corresponding to the image signal in response to a data control signal. The data voltage can be applied to the pixel PX through data lines DL1 to DLn. The light emission drive unit EDV can generate a light emission signal in response to a light emission control signal. The light emission signal can be applied to the pixel PX through light emission lines EL1 to ELm.

[0102] A pixel PX may be supplied with a data voltage in response to a scanning signal. The pixel PX can display an image by emitting light with a brightness corresponding to the data voltage in response to a light emission signal. The light emission time of the pixel PX may be controlled by the light emission signal.

[0103] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a general cross-section of an electronic panel corresponding to any one of the pixels shown in Figure 7.

[0104] Referring to Figure 8, the pixel PX may include a transistor TR and a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED may include a first electrode AE ​​(or anode), a second electrode CE (or cathode), a hole control layer HCL, an electron control layer ECL, and a light-emitting layer EML.

[0105] The transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED may be arranged on a substrate SUB. Although one transistor TR is illustrated exemplarily, substantially the pixel PX may include a transistor and at least one capacitor for driving the light-emitting element OLED.

[0106] The display area DA may include an emitting area PA corresponding to each pixel PX and a non-emitting area NPA surrounding the emitting area PA. The light-emitting element OLED may be placed in the emitting area PA.

[0107] The substrate SUB may contain polyimide (PI) as a flexible plastic material. A buffer layer BFL is placed on the substrate SUB, and the buffer layer BFL may be an inorganic layer. The aforementioned barrier layer BRL may be placed directly on the underside of the substrate SUB. For example, the barrier layer BRL may be coated on the underside of the substrate SUB.

[0108] A semiconductor pattern may be placed on a buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or metal oxides. The semiconductor pattern may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern may include high-doping and low-doping regions. The conductivity of the high-doping region is greater than that of the low-doping region and can substantially function as the source and drain electrodes of a transistor TR. The low-doping region can substantially correspond to the active (or channel) of the transistor.

[0109] The source S, active A, and drain D of the transistor TR may be formed from a semiconductor pattern. A first insulating layer INS1 may be placed on the semiconductor pattern. The gate G of the transistor TR may be placed on the first insulating layer INS1. A second insulating layer INS2 may be placed on the gate G. A third insulating layer INS3 may be placed on the second insulating layer INS2.

[0110] The coupling electrode CNE may include a first coupling electrode CNE1 and a second coupling electrode CNE2 to electrically connect the transistor TR and the light-emitting element OLED. The first coupling electrode CNE1 is placed on a third insulating layer INS3 and may be electrically connected to the drain D through a first contact hole CH1 defined in the first to third insulating layers INS1 to INS3.

[0111] A fourth insulating layer INS4 can be placed on the first connecting electrode CNE1. A fifth insulating layer INS5 can be placed on the fourth insulating layer INS4. A second connecting electrode CNE2 can be placed on the fifth insulating layer INS5. The second connecting electrode CNE2 can be electrically connected to the first connecting electrode CNE1 through a second contact hole CH2 defined in the fourth and fifth insulating layers INS4 and INS5.

[0112] A sixth insulating layer INS6 may be placed on the second connecting electrode CNE2. The layers from the buffer layer BFL to the sixth insulating layer INS6 can be defined as circuit element layers DP-CL. The first insulating layer INS1 to the sixth insulating layer INS6 may be inorganic or organic layers.

[0113] A first electrode AE ​​may be placed on a sixth insulating layer INS6. The first electrode AE ​​may be electrically connected to a second connecting electrode CNE2 through a third contact hole CH3 defined in the sixth insulating layer INS6. A pixel delimiting film PDL may be placed on the first electrode AE ​​and the sixth insulating layer INS6, with openings PX_OP defined to expose portions of the first electrode AE ​​(e.g., predetermined or selectable portions).

[0114] The hole control layer (HCL) may be placed on the first electrode (AE) and the pixel definition layer (PDL). The hole control layer (HCL) may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0115] The EML (Emission-Moisture Layer) may be placed on the Hole Control Layer (HCL). The EML may be placed in the region corresponding to the aperture PX_OP. The EML may contain organic and / or inorganic materials. The EML can generate red, green, or blue light.

[0116] The electron control layer (ECL) may be placed on top of the light-emitting layer (EML) and the hole control layer (HCL). The electron control layer (ECL) may include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer. The hole control layer (HCL) and the electron control layer (ECL) may be placed in common in the light-emitting region (PA) and the non-light-emitting region (NPA).

[0117] The second electrode CE can be placed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE can be placed in common with the pixel PX. The layer on which the light-emitting element OLED is placed can be defined as the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0118] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be placed on the second electrode CE to cover the pixel PX. The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include a first encapsulation layer EN1 placed on the second electrode CE, a second encapsulation layer EN2 placed on the first encapsulation layer EN1, and a third encapsulation layer EN3 placed on the second encapsulation layer EN2.

[0119] The first and third sealing layers EN1 and EN3 include an inorganic insulating layer that can protect the pixel PX from moisture / oxygen. The second sealing layer EN2 includes an organic insulating layer that can protect the pixel PX from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0120] A first voltage is applied to the first electrode AE ​​through the transistor TR, and a second voltage having a lower level than the first voltage may be applied to the second electrode CE. Holes injected into the light-emitting layer EML combine with electrons to form excitons, and as the excitons transition to the ground state, the light-emitting element OLED can emit light.

[0121] The input sensing unit ISP can be positioned on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE. The input sensing unit ISP can be manufactured directly on the upper surface of the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0122] Since the base layer BSL is placed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE, the base layer BSL can include an inorganic insulating layer. At least one inorganic insulating layer may be provided as the base layer BSL on the thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0123] The input sensing unit (ISP) may include a first conductive pattern CTL1 and a second conductive pattern CTL2 disposed on the first conductive pattern CTL1. The first conductive pattern CTL1 may be disposed on a base layer BSL. An insulating layer TINS ​​may be disposed on the base layer BSL so as to cover the first conductive pattern CTL1. The insulating layer TINS ​​may include an inorganic insulating layer or an organic insulating layer. The second conductive pattern CTL2 may be disposed on the insulating layer TINS.

[0124] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be superimposed on the non-emitting regions NPA. Although not shown, the first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be arranged on the non-emitting regions NPA between the emitting regions PA and may have a mesh shape.

[0125] The first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can form the sensors of the input sensing unit ISP described above. For example, the mesh-shaped first and second conductive patterns CTL1 and CTL2 can be separated from each other in a predetermined region to form a sensor. A portion of the second conductive pattern CTL2 can be electrically connected to the first conductive pattern CTL1.

[0126] An anti-reflective layer RPL may be placed on the second conductive pattern CTL2. The anti-reflective layer RPL may include a black matrix BM and a color filter CFT. The black matrix BM may be superimposed on the non-emitting region NPA, and the color filter CFT may be superimposed on the emitting region PA.

[0127] The black matrix BM may be placed on the insulating layer TINS ​​so as to cover the second conductive pattern CTL2. The black matrix BM may have an aperture B_OP superimposed on the light-emitting region PA and the aperture PX_OP. The black matrix BM can absorb and block light. The width of aperture B_OP may be greater than the width of aperture PX_OP.

[0128] The color filter CFT may be placed on the first insulating layer TINS ​​and the black matrix BM. The color filter CFT may be placed in the opening B_OP. A planar insulating layer PINS may be placed on the color filter CFT. The planar insulating layer PINS can provide a flat top surface.

[0129] When external light directed toward the display panel DP is reflected by the display panel DP and provided again to the external user, the user can see the external light as if it were a mirror. To prevent this phenomenon, the anti-reflective layer RPL may, for example, include a color filter CFT that displays the same color as the pixels PX of the display panel DP. The color filter CFT can filter the external light to the same color as the pixels PX. Therefore, the external light may not be visible to the user.

[0130] However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the anti-reflective layer RPL may include a polarizing film to reduce the reflectance of external light. The polarizing film may be manufactured separately and attached to the input sensing unit ISP by an adhesive layer. The polarizing film may include a phase delayer and / or a polarizer.

[0131] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the support plate shown in Figure 5. Figure 10 is a schematic enlarged view of the first region A1 shown in Figure 9.

[0132] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the folding section FP can have openings OP defined in a grid pattern. The openings OP can be arranged according to a predetermined rule. When openings OP are defined in the folding section FP, the area of ​​the folding section FP is reduced, and the strength of the folding section FP can be reduced. When openings OP are defined in the folding section FP, the flexibility of the folding section FP can be increased compared to when openings OP are not defined. Therefore, the folding section FP can be bent more easily.

[0133] Referring to Figure 10, the openings OP can be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The openings OP can extend further in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1. Exemplarily, the openings OP arranged in the h-th column and the openings OP arranged in the (h+1)-th column can be arranged alternately. The variable h is a natural number, and the columns can correspond to the second direction DR2.

[0134] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the folding state of the display device shown in Figure 5.

[0135] As an example, in a configuration arranged on a barrier layer BRL, the electronic panel EP to the hard coating layer HC is illustrated as a single layer EP~HC. Although three protrusions PRT are illustrated as an example in Figure 5, the actual number of protrusions PRT is greater, so Figure 11 illustrates a larger number of protrusions PRT as an example.

[0136] Referring to Figure 11, the support plate PLT and the display module DM can be bent and folded around the folding axis FX. The support plate PLT can be folded, and the display module DM can be folded by the support plate PLT.

[0137] The display module DM can be infolded such that the front surface of the first non-folding section NFA1 and the front surface of the second non-folding section NFA2 face each other. The display module DM can be changed from a flat first state as shown in Figure 5 to an infolded second state as shown in Figure 11, or from the second state to the first state.

[0138] When an opening OP is defined in the support plate PLT, the folding portion FP can be easily bent by the opening OP. The folding portion FA can be bent more easily when the barrier layer BRL is not placed entirely on the underside of the folding portion FA of the display module DM, but only partially, forming a protruding portion PRT.

[0139] The protruding portion PRT increases the flexibility of the folding portion FA, and at the same time, the protruding portion PRT can be spaced at a distance that improves impact resistance. Such a configuration is described in detail below.

[0140] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the planar configuration of the barrier layer illustrated in Figure 5.

[0141] For illustrative purposes, Figure 12 shows the back of the electronic panel EP.

[0142] Referring to Figure 12, the protruding parts PRT can be arranged in a dot-like pattern in a plan view. For example, the protruding parts PRT can have a circular shape in a plan view. The protruding parts PRT can be arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2.

[0143] Exemplary, the protrusions PRT may be the same size, but are not limited to this; they may be of different sizes. Also, the protrusions PRT may be arranged at equal intervals in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, but are not limited to this; they may be arranged randomly.

[0144] Figure 13 is a schematic enlarged view of the second region A2 shown in Figure 12. Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the line II-II' shown in Figure 13.

[0145] For example, Figure 14 shows the display panel DP together with the protruding part PRT, illustrating the state in which the protruding part PRT is positioned below the display panel DP.

[0146] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, two adjacent protrusions PRT can be separated by a maximum separation distance of up to the first interval GP1. For example, two adjacent protrusions PRT can be separated by a distance greater than 0, less than the first interval GP1, or the same distance.

[0147] When the protrusions PRT are arranged in the first and second directions DR1 and DR2, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, two adjacent protrusions PRT can be separated most significantly in the first diagonal direction DDR1 (or the second diagonal direction DDR2).

[0148] The first diagonal direction DDR1 can be defined as the direction that intersects the first and second directions DR1 and DR2 in the plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2. The second diagonal direction DDR2 can be defined as the direction that intersects the first diagonal direction DDR1 in the plane defined by the first and second directions DR1 and DR2.

[0149] Two adjacent protrusions PRT in the first diagonal direction DDR1 (or the second diagonal direction DDR2) can be spaced about a first interval GP1. Two adjacent protrusions PRT in the first direction DR1 (or the second direction DR2) can be spaced about a second interval GP2, which is smaller than the first interval GP1.

[0150] During impact resistance testing of the display module DM, a stylus device such as a pen having a predetermined diameter may be dropped or moved toward the display panel DP. When the barrier layer BRL is used to improve the impact resistance of the display module DM, the protrusion PRT may be positioned to overlap with the pen in a plan view in order to provide resistance to the impact of the pen.

[0151] The protrusions PRT must be spaced at intervals smaller than the diameter DIM of the pen PEN, and may be positioned so as to overlap with the pen PEN in a plan view. If the pen PEN is dropped in a third direction DR3, the protrusions PRT may improve the impact resistance of the display module DM by blocking the impact force applied by the pen PEN.

[0152] If the protrusions PRT are positioned at a distance greater than the diameter DIM of the pen PEN, the protrusions PRT may not overlap with the pen PEN. Therefore, when the pen PEN drops, the impact force of the pen PEN applied in the third direction DR3 is not blocked by the protrusions PRT, and the display panel DP may be significantly deformed.

[0153] In embodiments of the present invention, the distance between two adjacent protrusions PRT is less than the diameter DIM of the pen PEN, and the diameter DIM of the pen PEN may be set to 0.7 mm. Therefore, the distance between two adjacent protrusions PRT may be greater than 0 mm and less than 0.7 mm. For example, the first distance GP1, defined as the maximum distance between two adjacent protrusions PRT, may be greater than 0 mm and less than 0.7 mm.

[0154] Table 1 shows experimental results using the barrier layer BRL according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Table 1, P-film refers to the panel protection film used on the underside of the display panel DP when the barrier layer BRL is not used. The panel protection film (P-film) is attached to the underside of the display panel DP by an adhesive layer and may contain polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a flexible plastic material.

[0155] In Test 1, impact resistance tests were conducted while varying the height of the pen relative to the folding section FA. In Test 2, the in-folding operation was repeatedly performed at room temperature with a radius of curvature of 1.5 mm.

[0156] [Table 1]

[0157] In relation to Test 1, when the barrier layer BRL is used instead of the panel protective film (P-film), the impact resistance against pen drops can be improved by △2-3 cm. For example, if the panel protective film (P-film) is used and the pen is dropped from a height of 3 cm towards the folding part FA of the display panel DP, the display panel DP may be damaged to the point of failure. However, when the barrier layer BRL is used, the display panel DP may be damaged to the point of failure even when the pen is dropped from 5-6 cm, which is 2-3 cm higher than 3 cm. When the barrier layer BRL is used instead of the panel protective film (P-film), the impact resistance of the display panel DP can be improved.

[0158] In relation to Test 2, it is possible that the display panel DP will not be damaged until the in-folding operation is performed 200,000 times with a curvature radius of 1.5 mm. Therefore, the durability of the display panel DP may be improved.

[0159] When the panel protective film (P-film) is attached to the display panel DP by an adhesive layer, an additional adhesive layer may be used, potentially increasing the thickness of the display module DM. However, in embodiments of the present invention, the barrier layer BRL may be placed directly on the underside of the display panel DP without the use of a separate adhesive layer. If a separate adhesive layer is not used, the thickness of the display module DM may be reduced.

[0160] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an inkjet printing device positioned on the back of the display panel to form the barrier layer shown in Figure 5.

[0161] Referring to Figure 15, the front FS of the display panel DP is defined as the surface facing the window WIN, and the rear BS of the display panel DP can be defined as the surface opposite the front FS. The rear BS corresponds to the bottom BS shown in Figure 6.

[0162] The inkjet printing device IKP may be positioned on the rear surface BS of the display panel DP. The inkjet printing device IKP may include a head HD and nozzles NZ positioned below the head HD. The head HD may be extended in a second direction DR2. The nozzles NZ may be arranged in the second direction DR2 and connected to the underside of the head HD.

[0163] Although not shown in the diagram, ink is stored within the head HD, and the ink can be ejected through the nozzle NZ. The ink may contain resin to form the aforementioned barrier layer BRL.

[0164] The head HD and nozzle NZ can move in the first direction DR1. Although not shown in the diagram, the distance of nozzle NZ to the second direction DR2 can be adjusted.

[0165] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of forming a first barrier layer on the first non-folding portion of the display panel.

[0166] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the nozzles NZ may be arranged spaced apart from each other with a first spacing GP1' in the second direction DR2. The inkjet printing apparatus IKP can eject ink through the nozzles NZ to the back surface BS of the display panel DP while moving in the first direction DR1. The ink may be supplied to the back surface BS of the first non-folding section NFA1.

[0167] When the nozzles NZ are arranged closely together at a first spacing GP1', the ink INK ejected from the nozzles NZ can come together on the back surface BS of the display panel DP. The fluid ink INK can be flattened and cured to form a first barrier layer BRL1. Thus, a first barrier layer BRL1 can be formed on the first non-folding portion NFA1. Although not shown, a second barrier layer BRL2 on the second non-folding portion NFA2 can also be formed in the same manner.

[0168] Figures 17A and 17B are schematic diagrams illustrating the process of forming a second barrier layer on the folding portion of the display panel.

[0169] Referring to Figures 15 and 17A, the nozzles NZ may be arranged spaced apart from each other such that a second spacing GP2' is placed in the second direction DR2. The second spacing GP2' may be larger than the first spacing GP1'. For example, the nozzles NZ may be more widely spaced in the second spacing GP2'. The inkjet printing apparatus IKP can eject ink INK through the nozzles NZ to the back surface BS of the folding section FA while moving in the first direction DR1.

[0170] When the nozzles NZ are widely spaced at a second interval GP2', the ink ejected from the nozzles NZ may be separated on the back surface BS of the display panel DP without coming together. The ink can harden on the back surface BS of the folding section FA while remaining separated from each other to form a protruding section PRT.

[0171] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the deformation rate of a display panel following a pen drop when using barrier layers and panel protective films with various moduli.

[0172] Referring to Figure 18, the horizontal axis can be shown as the thickness of the barrier layers BR1 to BR4 and the panel protective film (P-film). Barrier layers BR1 to BR4 may be the aforementioned barrier layer BRL.

[0173] The vertical axis can represent the deformation rate (strain) of the circuit element layer DP-CL of the display panel DP mentioned above. The deformation rate (strain) of the circuit element layer DP-CL is illustrated as BP Strain in Figure 18. When an object is subjected to a force, its pattern can change, and the degree of deformation can be defined as the deformation rate.

[0174] The PEN was dropped from a height of 5 cm onto the display panel DP. The thickness of the barrier layers BR1 to BR4 and the panel protective film (P-film) was varied from 10 μm to 30 μm during the test.

[0175] The deformation rate of the display panel DP associated with the panel protective film (P-film) may be lower than the deformation rate of the display panel DP associated with the barrier layer BR1 having a modulus of 1 gigapascal (GPa). The deformation rates of the display panel DP following barrier layers BR2, BR3, and BR4 having modulos of 2 gigapascals (GPa), 3 gigapascals (GPa), and 5 gigapascals (GPa) can be lower than the deformation rate of the display panel DP following the panel protective film (P-film).

[0176] In embodiments of the present invention, the modulus of the barrier layer BR is 1 gigapascal (GPa) to 5 gigapascals (GPa), and may be, for example, 3 gigapascals (GPa) to 5 gigapascals (GPa).

[0177] Figures 19 to 23 are schematic diagrams showing the configuration of the barrier layer according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0178] For illustrative purposes, Figures 19 to 21 are shown in plan view corresponding to Figure 12, and Figures 22 and 23 are shown in schematic cross-section corresponding to Figure 5.

[0179] The configurations of barrier layers BRL-1 to BRL-5 shown in Figures 19 to 23 will be explained below, focusing on the configurations shown in Figures 5 and 12, as well as other configurations.

[0180] Referring to Figure 19, the barrier layer BRL-1 may include a projection PRT-1 positioned between the first and second barrier layers BRL1 and BRL2. The projection PRT-1 may extend in the second direction DR2 and be aligned in the first direction DR1.

[0181] Referring to Figure 20, the barrier layer BRL-2 may include a projection PRT-2 positioned between the first and second barrier layers BRL1 and BRL2. The projection PRT-2 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The projection PRT-2 may extend further in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1.

[0182] Referring to Figure 21, the barrier layer BRL-3 may include a projection PRT-3 positioned between the first and second barrier layers BRL1 and BRL2. The projection PRT-3 may extend in the first direction DR1 and be aligned in the second direction DR2.

[0183] Referring to Figure 22, the barrier layer BRL-4 may include a protrusion PRT-4 positioned between the first and second barrier layers BRL1 and BRL2. The protrusion PRT-4 does not need to be in direct contact with the lower surface of the folding portion FA.

[0184] A first dummy layer DML1 may be placed between the protruding portion PRT-4 and the folding portion FA of the display panel DP. The first dummy layer DML1 may have a modulus smaller than that of the barrier layer BRL. For example, the first dummy layer DML1 may have a modulus of 1 megapascal (MPa) to 100 megapascals (MPa). The first dummy layer DML1 may contain thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or polyurethane (PU).

[0185] When a barrier layer BRL with high modulus is formed, the shrinkage force generated when the ink INK used to form the protrusion PRT-4 hardens can be transmitted to the folding portion FA of the display panel DP. Therefore, the folding portion FA of the display panel DP can be deformed into a pattern similar to that of the protrusion PRT-4 by the shrinkage force.

[0186] In embodiments of the present invention, when a first dummy layer DML1 having a low modulus is placed between the protruding portion PRT-4 and the folding portion FA, the aforementioned contraction force may not be transmitted to the display panel DP. Therefore, deformation of the folding portion FA can be prevented.

[0187] Referring to Figure 23, the protruding portion PRT-4 of the barrier layer BRL-5 does not directly contact the lower surface of the folding portion FA, and the first dummy layer DML1 can be placed between the protruding portion PRT-4 and the folding portion FA. A second dummy layer DML2 having a smaller modulus than the barrier layer BRL can be placed between the protruding portions PRT-4 below the first dummy layer DML1. Therefore, the space between the protruding portions PRT-4 can be filled.

[0188] Although embodiments have been described above with reference to the present invention, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be modified and altered in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. The embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the invention, and all technical spirit within the following claims and equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0189] In a folding display device, the separated digitizer can be easily bent along the support plate, thus preventing damage to the digitizer. Therefore, a folding display device with an improved lifespan can be provided to the user, making the present invention highly industrially applicable.

Claims

1. A display panel including a first non-folding section, a second non-folding section, and a folding section between the first and second non-folding sections, The barrier layer is located below the display panel, The aforementioned barrier layer is A first barrier layer disposed below the first non-folding portion, A second barrier layer positioned below the second non-folding portion, A display device comprising a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first and second barrier layers and projecting downward from the lower surface of the folding portion.

2. The aforementioned multiple protrusions have a shape that bulges downward in a cross-sectional view. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of protrusions are arranged in a dot-type configuration in a plan view.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the distance between adjacent protrusions among the plurality of protrusions is smaller than the diameter of the stylus device.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein the distance between adjacent protrusions among the plurality of protrusions is greater than 0 mm and less than 0.7 mm.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first barrier layer is disposed flatly over the entire lower surface of the first non-folding portion, and the second barrier layer is disposed flatly over the entire lower surface of the second non-folding portion.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first barrier layer, the second barrier layer, and the plurality of protrusions are directly arranged on the lower surface of the display panel.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the barrier layer comprises a cage-type silsesquioxane (Polyheadral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane).

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the barrier layer has a modulus of 1 gigapascal to 5 gigapascals.

9. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a support plate disposed below the barrier layer and having an opening that overlaps the folding portion in a plan view.

10. The display device according to claim 9, further comprising an adhesive layer disposed between the barrier layer and the support plate, wherein the lower parts of the plurality of protrusions are in direct contact with the adhesive layer.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first non-folding portion, the second non-folding portion, and the folding portion are arranged in a first direction, and the folding portion is folded around a folding axis extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of protrusions are arranged in the first direction and the second direction.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of protrusions are extended in the second direction and arranged in the first direction.

14. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of protrusions are further extended in the second direction than in the first direction and are arranged in the first and second directions.

15. The display device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of protrusions are extended in the first direction and arranged in the second direction.

16. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a first dummy layer disposed between the plurality of protrusions and the folding portion.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein the first dummy layer has a modulus smaller than that of the barrier layer.

18. The first dummy layer further includes a second dummy layer positioned between the plurality of protrusions, The display device according to claim 16, wherein the second dummy layer has a modulus smaller than that of the barrier layer.

19. Display panel and A first barrier layer is positioned below the aforementioned display panel, A second barrier layer is positioned below the display panel and is separated from the first barrier layer in a first direction that is horizontal to the plane of the display panel, A plurality of protrusions are arranged between the first and second barrier layers and protrude downward from the lower surface of the display panel, A display device comprising a dummy layer disposed between the plurality of protrusions and the display panel.

20. A display panel including a folding section, A support plate is positioned below the display panel and includes an opening that overlaps the folding portion in a plan view, A first barrier layer is disposed between the display panel and the support plate, A second barrier layer is disposed between the display panel and the support plate, and is separated from the first barrier layer in a first direction that is horizontal to the plane of the display panel, It includes a plurality of protrusions positioned between the first and second barrier layers and projecting downward from the lower surface of the display panel, In a plan view, the plurality of protrusions are a display device superimposed on the opening.

Images