Display device and electronic device including the same

Abstract

To provide a display device with improved reliability, and an electronic device including the same.SOLUTION: A display device according to one example of the present invention includes: a display panel where a first region, and second and third regions which are apart from each other with the first region interposed therebetween are defined; a barrier layer disposed under the display panel; a support layer disposed under the barrier layer and having a plurality of openings defined in a region overlapping with the first region; a cushion layer apart from the display panel with the support layer interposed therebetween; and a barrier adhesive layer including a first barrier part disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer, and a second barrier part disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer. The first barrier part and the second barrier part are apart from each other with the openings interposed therebetween.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device and an electronic device including the same, and more particularly to a foldable display device and an electronic device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] An electronic device displays various images on a display screen to provide information to a user. Generally, the electronic device displays information within an allotted screen. Recently, flexible electronic devices including foldable flexible display panels have been developed. Different from rigid electronic devices, flexible electronic devices can be folded or bent. A flexible electronic device whose shape can be variously changed can be carried regardless of the conventional screen size, improving user convenience.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device with improved reliability and an electronic device including the same.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel defined with a first region, a second region separated from each other with the first region in between, and a third region; a barrier layer disposed below the display panel; a support layer disposed below the barrier layer and having a plurality of openings defined in a region overlapping with the first region; a cushion layer separated from the display panel with the support layer in between; and a barrier adhesive layer including a first barrier portion disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer and a second barrier portion disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer, wherein the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion are separated with the plurality of openings in between.

[0006] The support layer may overlap the first, second, and third regions, and the area of ​​the cushion layer may be smaller than the area of ​​the support layer, and the area of ​​the barrier layer may be smaller than the area of ​​the support layer.

[0007] The cushion layer includes a first cushion layer and a second cushion layer separated from the first cushion layer, and on a plane, the distance between the first cushion layer and the second cushion layer may overlap with the first region.

[0008] The elastic modulus of the support layer may be higher than that of the cushion layer.

[0009] The thickness of the barrier adhesive layer may be less than the thickness of the barrier layer.

[0010] The barrier layer may be a colored polyimide film.

[0011] The barrier layer may contain a light-shielding substance.

[0012] On a plane, the barrier layer may overlap with a portion of the support layer, while the other portion of the support layer may not overlap with the barrier layer.

[0013] The thickness of the cushion layer may be greater than the thickness of the barrier layer.

[0014] The present invention further includes an upper adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the barrier layer and attached to the barrier layer, wherein the thickness of the upper adhesive layer may be greater than the thickness of the barrier adhesive layer.

[0015] The first distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion may be greater than the second distance between the first side wall of the first opening that is closest to the second region among the plurality of openings and the second side wall of the second opening that is closest to the third region among the plurality of openings.

[0016] The distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion may be greater than the width of the region in which the plurality of openings are defined.

[0017] A display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area are defined in the display panel, a hole is defined in the support layer that overlaps with the display area, and the cushion layer may be separated from the hole.

[0018] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel in which a foldable folding region is defined; a barrier layer disposed below the display panel; a support layer disposed below the barrier layer and having a first elastic modulus, wherein a plurality of openings are defined in a region overlapping with the folding region; and a cushion layer disposed below the support layer and having a second elastic modulus lower than the first elastic modulus, comprising a first cushion layer and a second cushion layer separated from the first cushion layer.

[0019] The present invention further includes a first barrier adhesive layer attached to the lower surface of the barrier layer and the upper surface of the support layer, and a second barrier adhesive layer attached to the upper surface of the barrier layer, wherein the first barrier adhesive layer may include a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion separated from the first barrier portion with the plurality of openings in between.

[0020] The thickness of the first barrier adhesive layer may be less than the thickness of the second barrier adhesive layer.

[0021] The distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion may be greater than the width of the region in which the plurality of openings are defined.

[0022] The electronic device further includes a first electronic module that overlaps with a first hole defined in the display panel and the support layer, and a second electronic module that overlaps with a second hole defined in the support layer, and the depth of the first hole may be greater than the depth of the second hole.

[0023] The cushion layer may be spaced apart from the first hole and the second hole.

[0024] The thickness of the cushion layer may be greater than the thickness of the barrier layer.

[0025] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel in which a first region, a second region spaced apart from each other with the first region interposed therebetween, and a third region are defined, a barrier layer disposed under the display panel, a support layer disposed under the barrier layer and having a plurality of openings defined in a region overlapping with the first region, and a barrier adhesion layer including a first barrier portion disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer and a second barrier portion disposed between the barrier layer and the support layer, wherein a first distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion is greater than a second distance between a first side wall of a first opening closest to the second region among the plurality of openings and a second side wall of a second opening closest to the third region among the plurality of openings.

[0026] The electronic device further includes a cushion layer spaced apart from the display panel with the support layer interposed therebetween, and the elastic modulus of the cushion layer may be lower than the elastic modulus of the support layer.

[0027] The cushion layer includes a first cushion layer and a second cushion layer spaced apart from the first cushion layer, and on a plane, the interval between the first cushion layer and the second cushion layer may overlap with the first region.

[0028] A display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area are defined in the display panel, a hole is defined in the support layer that overlaps with the display area, and the cushion layer may be separated from the hole. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] As described above, a barrier layer is placed between the display panel and the support layer. A gap is defined between the support layer, which has multiple openings, and the barrier layer. Therefore, the multiple openings are not visible from outside the electronic device. In addition, because the barrier layer contains a light-shielding material, the difference in color of the support layer is not visible from the outside.

[0030] Furthermore, as described above, the cushioning layer is separated from the display panel by the support layer in between. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the display panel, the shape of the display panel is reduced compared to when the cushioning layer is placed between the support layer and the display panel. In addition, the cushioning layer is placed below the heat dissipation layer and is firmly supported by the heat dissipation layer. Therefore, the shock absorption performance of the cushioning layer is improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0031] [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] This is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]This is a plan view that is an enlarged portion of Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 5, enlarged. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a rear view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is referred to as being "on top of" or "combined with" another component, it means that it can be directly placed on top of, connected to, or combined with the other component, or that a third component can be placed between them.

[0033] In this specification and in the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same component. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thickness, proportions, and dimensions of components may be represented schematically, but this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. "and / or" includes all combinations of one or more components defined by the relevant component.

[0034] Terms such as "First," "Second," etc., are convenient identifiers used to describe various components, and the components are not limited to these terms. They are used to distinguish one structural element from other components. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. Also, singular expressions include plural expressions unless they clearly mean different things in context.

[0035] Furthermore, terms such as "down," "on the lower side," "up," and "on the upper side" are used to describe the arrangement of the components shown in the drawing. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the direction shown in the drawing.

[0036] Terms such as "includes" or "possesses" indicate the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood not to preclude the presence or possibility of adding one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art in the field to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to include meanings consistent with their dictionary definitions in relation to the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an overly idealistic or formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0039] Figures 1A and 1B are perspective views of an electronic device ED according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1A shows the electronic device ED in an unfolded state, and Figure 1B shows the electronic device ED in a folded state.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the electronic device ED according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display surface DS defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The electronic device ED provides an image IM to the user via the display surface DS.

[0041] The display surface DS includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA displays the image IM, while the non-display area NDA does not display the image IM. The non-display area NDA surrounds the display area DA. However, the configuration of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA is not limited to the example shown here, and the shapes of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA may be modified.

[0042] Hereinafter, the direction perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 is defined as the third direction DR3. Furthermore, in this specification, "on the plane" is defined as the view from the third direction DR3. Hereinafter, the first to third directions DR1, DR2, and DR3 refer to the directions indicated by the first to third direction axes, respectively, and the same reference numerals are used.

[0043] The electronic device ED includes a folded region FA and a plurality of non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2. The non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2. Within the second direction DR2, the folded region FA is located between the first non-folded region NFA1 and the second non-folded region NFA2. The folded region FA is referred to as the first region FA, the first non-folded region NFA1 as the second region NFA1, and the second non-folded region NFA2 as the third region NFA2.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1B, the folding region FA is folded with respect to a folding axis FX parallel to the first direction DR1. The folding region FA has a predetermined curvature and radius of curvature. The first non-folding region NFA1 and the second non-folding region NFA2 face each other, and the electronic device ED is folded inward so that the display surface DS is not exposed to the outside (inner-folding).

[0045] In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device ED is folded outward so that the display surface DS is exposed to the outside. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device ED is configured such that only the actions of unfolding and folding inward or outward are repeated, but the electronic device ED is not limited to the example shown herein. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device ED is configured to select one of the actions of unfolding, folding inward, and folding outward.

[0046] Multiple sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3 are defined for the electronic device ED. Figure 1A shows three sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3 as an example, but the number of sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3 is not limited to the number shown here.

[0047] The sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3 include the first sensing region SA1, the second sensing region SA2, and the third sensing region SA3. For example, the first sensing region SA1 may be superimposed on the camera module, the second sensing region SA2 may be superimposed on the first illuminance sensor, and the third sensing region SA3 may be superimposed on the second illuminance sensor; the configuration is not limited to those shown herein.

[0048] An electronic module (e.g., a camera module, a first illuminance sensor, or a second illuminance sensor) receives an external input transmitted through the first to third sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3, respectively, or provides an output through the first to third sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3, respectively.

[0049] The first sensing region SA1 is surrounded by the display region DA, and the second sensing region SA2 and the third sensing region SA3 are each included in the display region DA. In other words, the second sensing region SA2 and the third sensing region SA3 may display images. The transmittance of each of the first to third sensing regions SA1, SA2, and SA3 is higher than the transmittance of the display region DA. Furthermore, the transmittance of the first sensing region SA1 is higher than the transmittance of the second sensing region SA2 and the transmittance of the third sensing region SA3.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the camera module is surrounded by a display area DA, and the first and second illuminance sensors each overlap with the display area DA. Therefore, the areas where the camera module, the first illuminance sensor, and the second illuminance sensor are located do not need to be provided in the non-display area NDA. As a result, the ratio of the area of ​​the display area DA to the front surface of the electronic device ED increases.

[0051] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] As shown in Figure 2, the electronic device ED includes a display device DD, an electronic module EM, a power supply module PSM, and cases EDC1 and EDC2. Although not shown, the electronic device ED may further include a mechanism or device for controlling the folding operation of the display device DD.

[0053] The display device DD generates images and senses external inputs. The display device DD includes a window module WM and a display module DM. The window module WM provides the front view of the electronic device ED.

[0054] The display module DM includes at least a display panel DP. In Figure 2, the display module DM is shown similarly to the display panel DP, but the display module DM is a stacked structure made up of multiple components stacked on top of each other. A detailed explanation of the stacked structure of the display module DM will be given later.

[0055] The display panel DP includes a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA corresponding to the display area DA (see Figure 1A) and non-display area NDA (see Figure 1A) of the electronic device ED. In this specification, "areas / parts corresponding to areas / parts" means overlapping. The overlapping areas are not limited to the same area. The display module DM includes a drive chip DIC positioned on the non-display area DP-NDA. The display module DM further includes a flexible circuit film FCB connected to the non-display area DP-NDA.

[0056] The drive chip DIC includes a drive device for driving the pixels of the display panel DP, such as a data drive circuit. Figure 2 shows a structure in which the drive chip DIC is mounted on the display panel DP, but the present invention is not limited to the structure shown in Figure 2. For example, the drive chip DIC may be mounted on a flexible circuit film FCB.

[0057] The electronic module EM includes at least a main controller. The electronic module EM also includes a wireless communication module, a camera module, a proximity sensor module, a video input module, an audio input module, an audio output module, memory, and an external interface module. The electronic module EM is electrically connected to the power supply module PSM.

[0058] The main controller controls the overall operation of the electronic device ED. For example, the main controller may activate or deactivate the display device DD in response to user input. The main controller controls the operation of the display device DD and other modules. The main controller includes at least one microprocessor.

[0059] Cases EDC1 and EDC2 house the display module DM, the electronic module EM, and the power supply module PSM. While two separate cases EDC1 and EDC2 are shown exemplarily, the case configuration is not limited to the example shown. Although not shown, the electronic device ED further includes a hinge structure for connecting the two cases EDC1 and EDC2. Cases EDC1 and EDC2 are coupled with the window module WM. Cases EDC1 and EDC2 protect the components housed within them, including the display module DM, the electronic module EM, and the power supply module PSM.

[0060] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to Figure 3, the display module DM includes a display panel DP, an input sensor IS positioned on top of the display panel DP, an optical film LF positioned on top of the input sensor IS, and a lower member LM positioned below the display panel DP. An adhesive layer is provided between the members as needed.

[0062] The display panel DP includes a base layer, a circuit element layer placed on the base layer, a display element layer placed on the circuit element layer, and a thin film encapsulation layer placed on the display element layer. The base layer includes a plastic film. For example, the base layer may include polyimide. The planar shape of the base layer is substantially the same as the planar shape of the display panel DP shown in Figure 4, which will be described later.

[0063] The circuit element layer includes an organic layer, an inorganic layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and signal lines. The organic layer, inorganic layer, semiconductor layer, and conductive layer are formed on a base layer by methods such as coating and vapor deposition. Next, the organic layer, inorganic layer, semiconductor layer, and conductive layer are selectively patterned through multiple lithography processes to form the semiconductor pattern, conductive pattern, and signal lines.

[0064] The semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines form the pixel driving circuit and signal lines SL1-SLm, DL1-DLn, EL1-ELm, CSL1, CSL2, and PL of the pixel PX shown in Figure 4, which will be described later. The pixel driving circuit includes at least one transistor.

[0065] The display element layer includes light-emitting elements of pixel PX as shown in Figure 4, which will be described later. The light-emitting elements are electrically connected to at least one transistor. The thin-film encapsulation layer is placed on top of the circuit element layer to seal the display element layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer includes sequentially stacked inorganic layers, organic layers, and inorganic layers. The stacked structure of the thin-film encapsulation layer is not particularly limited.

[0066] The input sensor IS includes a plurality of sensing electrodes (not shown) for sensing an external input, trace lines (not shown) connected to the plurality of sensing electrodes, and an inorganic layer and / or organic layer for insulating / protecting the plurality of sensing electrodes or trace lines. The input sensor IS may be a capacitive sensor, and the configuration of the input sensor IS is not limited to a specific configuration.

[0067] The input sensor IS is formed directly on the thin film sealing layer in a continuous manner during the manufacturing of the display panel DP. In this specification, the display panel DP with integrated input sensor IS is defined as an electronic panel. However, the configuration of the input sensor IS is not limited to the example shown herein, and the input sensor IS may be manufactured as a separate panel from the display panel DP and attached to the display panel DP by an adhesive layer.

[0068] Multiple sensing electrodes are superimposed on the display area DP-DA (see Figure 4). Trace lines are positioned to superimpose on the non-display area DP-NDA (see Figure 4). Trace lines extend towards the lower end of the second panel area AA2 via the bending area BA (see Figure 4), adjacent to the pad PD shown in Figure 4. In this case, trace lines are positioned on a different layer from the signal lines SL1-SLm, DL1-DLn, EL1-ELm, CSL1, CSL2, and PL (see Figure 4) of the circuit element layer.

[0069] The trace lines are connected to the signal lines (input signal lines) provided for the input sensor IS of the display panel DP in the first panel region AA1 shown in Figure 4. The input signal lines are different from the signal lines SL1-SLm, DL1-DLn, EL1-ELm, CSL1, CSL2, and PL shown in Figure 4, but are located on the same layer as one of these lines. Each input signal line is connected to the corresponding pad PD (see Figure 4). As a result, the trace lines are electrically connected to the same flexible circuit film FCB (see Figure 4) as the signal lines of the circuit element layer.

[0070] The optical film LF reduces the reflectivity of external light. The optical film LF includes a phase retarder and / or a polarizer. The optical film LF includes at least a polarizing film.

[0071] An optical film LF according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a color filter. The color filter has a predetermined arrangement. The arrangement of the color filter is determined considering the light-emitting color of the pixels PX included in the display panel DP. The optical film LF further includes a black matrix adjacent to the color filter.

[0072] An optical film LF according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an anti-interference structure. For example, the anti-interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer arranged on different layers. The first and second reflected light reflected from the first and second reflective layers, respectively, are affected by anti-interference, thereby reducing the reflectivity of the external light.

[0073] The lower member LM includes various functional components. These include a light-shielding layer that blocks light incident on the display panel DP, a shock-absorbing layer that absorbs external impacts, a support layer that supports the display panel DP, and a heat-dissipating layer that releases heat generated from the display panel DP. A detailed explanation of the laminated structure of the lower member LM will be given later.

[0074] Figure 4 is a plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Referring to Figure 4, the display panel DP includes the display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA surrounding the display area DP-DA. The display area DP-DA and the non-display area DP-NDA are distinguished by the presence or absence of pixels PX. Pixels PX are placed in the display area DP-DA. The scanning drive unit SDV, data drive unit, and light emission drive unit EDV are placed in the non-display area DP-NDA. The data drive unit is a part of the circuitry configured in the drive chip DIC.

[0076] The display panel DP includes a first panel area AA1, a second panel area AA2, and a bending area BA, which are divided within the second direction DP2. The second panel area AA2 and the bending area BA are part of the non-display area DP-NDA. The bending area BA is located between the first panel area AA1 and the second panel area AA2.

[0077] The first panel area AA1 corresponds to the display surface DS in Figure 1A. The first panel area AA1 includes the first non-folding area NFA10, the second non-folding area NFA20, and the folding area FA0. The first non-folding area NFA10, the second non-folding area NFA20, and the folding area FA0 correspond to the first non-folding area NFA1, the second non-folding area NFA2, and the folding area FA in Figures 1A and 1B, respectively. The folding area FA0 is referred to as the first area FA0, the first non-folding area NFA10 as the second area NFA10, and the second non-folding area NFA20 as the third area NFA20.

[0078] Within the first direction DR1, the lengths of the bending region BA and the second panel region AA2 are smaller than the length (or width) of the first panel region AA1. Regions with a shorter length in the bending axis direction are more easily bent.

[0079] The display panel DP includes multiple pixels PX, multiple scan lines SL1-SLm, multiple data lines DL1-DLn, multiple light-emitting lines EL1-ELm, first and second control lines CSL1 and CSL2, power line PL, and multiple pads PD, where m and n are natural numbers. The pixels PX are connected to the scan lines SL1-SLm, data lines DL1-DLn, and light-emitting lines EL1-ELm.

[0080] The scanning lines SL1-SLm are extended in the first direction DR1 and electrically connected to the scanning drive unit SDV. The data lines DL1-DLn are extended in the second direction DR2 and electrically connected to the drive chip DIC via the bending region BA. The light emission lines EL1-ELm are extended in the first direction DR1 and electrically connected to the light emission drive unit EDV.

[0081] The power line PL includes a portion that extends in the second direction DR2 and a portion that extends in the first direction DR1. The portion that extends in the first direction DR1 and the portion that extends in the second direction are located on different layers. The portion of the power line PL that extends in the second direction DR2 is extended to the second panel region AA2 via the bending region BA. The power line PL supplies the first power to the pixel PX.

[0082] The first control line CSL1 is connected to the scanning drive unit SDV and extends through the bending region BA towards the lower end of the second panel region AA2. The second control line CSL2 is connected to the light emission drive unit EDV and extends through the bending region BA towards the lower end of the second panel region AA2.

[0083] When viewed from a planar perspective, the pad PD is positioned adjacent to the lower edge of the second panel region AA2. The drive chip DIC, power line PL, first control line CSL1, and second control line CSL2 are electrically connected to the pad PD. The flexible circuit film FCB is electrically connected to the pad PD via an anisotropic conductive adhesive layer.

[0084] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 5 shows the state before the display device DD is installed in the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A), and Figure 6 shows the state after the display device DD is installed in the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A).

[0086] Referring to Figure 6, when the display device DD is installed on the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A), the first panel area AA1 and the second panel area AA2 of the display panel DP are positioned on different planes. The second panel area AA2 is positioned below the first panel area AA1.

[0087] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the window module WM includes a thin-film glass substrate UTG, a plastic film PF placed on the thin-film glass substrate UTG, a first adhesive layer AL1 that bonds the thin-film glass substrate UTG and the plastic film PF, and a bezel pattern BP.

[0088] The bezel pattern BP is superimposed on the non-display area (NDA) shown in Figure 1A. The bezel pattern BP is placed on one surface of the thin-film glass substrate (UTG) or one surface of the plastic film (PF). Figure 5 illustrates a bezel pattern BP placed on the underside of the plastic film (PF). The configuration of the bezel pattern BP is not limited to that shown in Figure 5; the bezel pattern BP may also be placed on the upper surface of the plastic film (PF). The bezel pattern BP is a colored light-shielding film, which may be formed, for example, by a coating method. The bezel pattern BP comprises a base material and a dye or pigment mixed with the base material. The bezel pattern BP has a closed line shape on a plane.

[0089] The thickness of the thin-film glass substrate UTG is 15 μm (micrometers) or more and 45 μm or less, and may be, for example, 30 μm. The thin-film glass substrate UTG is chemically strengthened glass. By using the thin-film glass substrate UTG, the occurrence of wrinkles is minimized even when repeatedly folded and unfolded. In one embodiment of the present invention, a synthetic resin film may be used instead of the thin-film glass substrate UTG.

[0090] The thickness of the plastic film PF is 50 μm or more and 80 μm or less, and may be, for example, 65 μm. The plastic film PF contains polyimide, polycarbonate, polyamide, triacetylcellulose, or polymethyl methacrylate or polyethylene terephthalate. Unless otherwise indicated, at least one of a hard coating layer, an anti-fingerprint layer, and an anti-reflective layer is placed on the upper surface of the plastic film PF.

[0091] The first adhesive layer AL1 is a pressure-sensitive adhesive film (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The adhesive layers described below are the same as the first adhesive layer and contain a conventional adhesive.

[0092] The thickness of the first adhesive layer AL1 is 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less, and may be, for example, 35 μm. The first adhesive layer AL1 has a thickness sufficient to cover the bezel pattern BP. For example, the thickness of the bezel pattern BP may be 3 μm or more and 8 μm or less, and the first adhesive layer AL1 has a thickness that prevents air bubbles from forming around the bezel pattern BP.

[0093] The first adhesive layer AL1 is separated from the thin-film glass substrate UTG. Due to the lower strength of the plastic film PF compared to the thin-film glass substrate UTG, scratches may occur relatively easily. After separating the first adhesive layer AL1 from the plastic film PF, a new plastic film PF is attached to the thin-film glass substrate UTG.

[0094] On a planar surface, the edge UE of the thin-film glass substrate UTG does not overlap with the bezel pattern BP. By satisfying the above conditions, the edge UE of the thin-film glass substrate UTG is exposed from the bezel pattern BP, and minute cracks occurring on the edge UE of the thin-film glass substrate UTG can be inspected via an inspection device. The inspection device includes a microscope. The inspection device photographs the edge UE of the thin-film glass substrate UTG from above the top surface of the plastic film PF, and cracks originating from the edge UE of the thin-film glass substrate UTG can be confirmed.

[0095] On a plane, the edge PE of the plastic film PF and the edge A-E1 of the first adhesive layer AL1 are aligned. The plastic film PF and the first adhesive layer AL1 have the same area and shape.

[0096] The window module WM and the display module DM are joined by a second bonding layer AL2. The second bonding layer AL2 contains a transparent adhesive, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive or an optically transparent adhesive. The thickness of the second bonding layer AL2 is 35 μm or more and 65 μm or less, and may be, for example, 50 μm.

[0097] On a plane, the edge A-E2 of the second bonding layer AL2 overlaps with the window module WM. For example, the edge A-E2 of the second bonding layer AL2 may overlap with the thin-film glass substrate UTG. During the process of attaching the window module WM and the display module DM, pressure is applied to the second bonding layer AL2. Under pressure, the second bonding layer AL2 stretches in the first direction DR1 and in directions parallel to the second direction DR. In this case, the area of ​​the second bonding layer AL2 may be smaller than the area of ​​the thin-film glass substrate UTG so that the second bonding layer AL2 does not protrude beyond the thin-film glass substrate UTG.

[0098] When the first adhesive layer AL1 and the second bonding layer AL2 are attached, the thin-film glass substrate UTG cannot slip when the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A) is folded, which may cause buckling or cracking of the thin-film glass substrate UTG. However, according to the embodiment of the present invention, since the area of ​​the second bonding layer AL2 is smaller than the area of ​​the thin-film glass substrate UTG, the first adhesive layer AL1 and the second bonding layer AL2 cannot be attached, and the adhesion of foreign matter to the second adhesive layer AL2 can be suppressed.

[0099] The display module DM includes an optical film LF, a display panel DP, a panel protective layer PPL, a barrier layer BRL, a support layer PLT, a cover layer SCV, a heat dissipation layer RHL, a cushion layer CUL, an insulating layer INL, a spacer SPC, a step compensation pattern CP, and third to eleventh adhesive layers AL3 to AL11. The third to eleventh adhesive layers AL3 to AL11 include a transparent adhesive such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive or an optically transparent adhesive. In one embodiment of the present invention, some of the above-described components may be omitted. For example, the step compensation pattern CP and its associated tenth and eleventh adhesive layers AL10 and AL11 may be omitted.

[0100] The optical film LF is positioned in the first panel area AA1. The optical film LF covers at least the display area DP-DA (see Figure 2). The second adhesive layer AL2 is bonded to the optical film LF and the window module WM, and the third adhesive layer AL3 is bonded to the optical film LF and the display panel DP. Although only the display panel DP is shown in Figures 5 and 6, an input sensor IS may be further positioned between the display panel DP and the third adhesive layer AL3, as shown in Figure 3.

[0101] The panel protection layer (PPL) is placed beneath the display panel (DP). The PPL protects the underside of the display panel (DP). The PPL contains a flexible plastic material. The PPL prevents scratches from occurring on the back of the display panel (DP) during the manufacturing process. The PPL is a colored polyimide film. For example, the PPL may be an opaque yellow film, but the PPL is not limited to the example shown here.

[0102] In one embodiment of the present invention, the panel protection layer PPL is not located in the bending region BA. The panel protection layer PPL includes a first panel protection layer PPL-1 that protects the first panel region AA1 of the display panel DP, and a second panel protection layer PPL-2 that protects the second panel region AA2. When the bending region BA is bent, the second panel protection layer PPL-2 is located beneath the first panel region AA1 and the first panel protection layer PPL-1 together with the second panel region AA2 of the display panel DP. Because the panel protection layer PPL is not located in the bending region BA, the bending region BA is made easier to bend.

[0103] The fourth adhesive layer AL4 bonds the panel protection layer PPL to the display panel DP. The fourth adhesive layer AL4 includes a first portion AL4-1 corresponding to the first panel protection layer PPL-1, and a second portion AL4-2 corresponding to the second panel protection layer PPL-2. The first portion AL4-1 bonds the first panel protection layer PPL-1 to the first panel area AA1 of the display panel DP, and the second portion AL4-2 bonds the second panel protection layer PPL-2 to the second panel area AA2 of the display panel DP.

[0104] The barrier layer BRL is positioned beneath the panel protection layer PPL. The fifth adhesive layer AL5 is positioned between the panel protection layer PPL and the barrier layer BRL, bonding the barrier layer BRL to the panel protection layer PPL. The fifth adhesive layer AL5 is attached to the upper surface of the barrier layer BRL and is referred to as the upper adhesive layer.

[0105] The barrier layer BRL increases resistance to compressive forces caused by external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer BRL plays a role in preventing deformation of the display panel DP. The barrier layer BRL contains a flexible plastic material such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0106] Furthermore, the barrier layer BRL absorbs light incident from the outside. The barrier layer BRL contains a light-shielding material or is a colored film with low light transmittance. For example, the barrier layer BRL may be a black plastic film, or for example, a black polyimide film. When viewing the display module DM from above the window module WM, the components located beneath the barrier layer BRL are not visible to the user.

[0107] The support layer PLT is placed beneath the barrier layer BRL. The support layer PLT contains a material having an elastic modulus of 60 GPa or higher. The support layer PLT contains a metallic material such as stainless steel. For example, the support layer PLT may contain SUS304, but the support layer PLT is not limited to the examples shown here and may contain a variety of metallic materials. The support layer PLT supports the display panel DP. The support layer PLT also improves the heat dissipation performance of the display device DD.

[0108] Multiple openings OP are defined in a portion of the supporting layer PLT corresponding to the folding region FA0. The flexibility of the supporting layer PLT is improved by the openings OP.

[0109] The area of ​​the barrier layer BRL is smaller than the area of ​​the supporting layer PLT. This area is measured on a plane. On the plane, the barrier layer BRL overlaps with a portion of the supporting layer PLT. The other portion of the supporting layer PLT does not overlap with the barrier layer BRL.

[0110] The sixth adhesive layer AL6 is positioned between the barrier layer BRL and the support layer PLT. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 bonds the barrier layer BRL and the support layer PLT together. The sixth adhesive layer AL6 (hereinafter referred to as the barrier adhesive layer) includes a first portion AL6-1 (hereinafter referred to as the first barrier portion) and a second portion AL6-2 (hereinafter referred to as the second barrier portion), which are separated from each other.

[0111] The first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 are separated by a plurality of openings OP in between. On a plane, the barrier adhesive layer AL6 does not overlap with the plurality of openings OP. Also, on a plane, the barrier adhesive layer AL6 is separated from the plurality of openings OP.

[0112] The first barrier portion AL6-1 overlaps with the second region NFA10, and the second barrier portion AL6-2 overlaps with the third region NFA20. Neither the first barrier portion AL6-1 nor the second barrier portion AL6-2 overlaps with the first region NFA0. By not placing the barrier adhesive layer AL6 in the region corresponding to the first region FA0, the flexibility of the support layer PLT can be improved.

[0113] In the region overlapping with the first region FA0, the barrier layer BRL is separated from the support layer PLT. In other words, in the portion overlapping with the first region FA0, an empty space ES is defined between the support layer PLT and the barrier layer BRL. The empty space ES contains air.

[0114] When the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A) is folded, a gap ES is defined between the barrier layer BRL and the support layer PLT, so that the shapes of the multiple openings OP defined in the support layer PLT are not visible from the outside of the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A).

[0115] Furthermore, by using a light-shielding barrier layer BRL or a colored film with low light transmittance, the difference in color perception of the support layer PLT is not visible from the outside. For example, in the support layer PLT, the difference in color perception between a first support region where multiple openings OP are defined and a second support region where multiple openings OP are not defined is not visible from the outside. The first support region is the region that overlaps with the first region FA0, and the second support region is the region that overlaps with the second region FA10 and the third region NFA20.

[0116] The thickness of the barrier adhesive layer AL6 is less than the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5. For example, the thickness of the fifth adhesive layer AL5 may be 25 μm, and the thickness of the barrier adhesive layer AL6 may be 16 μm.

[0117] The thinner the barrier adhesive layer AL6, the smaller the step created by the barrier adhesive layer AL6. A smaller step has the advantage of reducing deformation of the laminated structure when the electronic device ED (see Figure 1A) is folded or unfolded, but multiple openings OP may become visible, or the barrier adhesive layer AL6 may separate due to repeated folding operations. A thicker barrier adhesive layer AL6 has the advantage of making multiple openings OP less visible and increasing the reliability of the adhesive strength of the barrier adhesive layer AL6 due to repeated folding operations, but the step may become larger. Therefore, the thickness of the barrier adhesive layer AL6 is selected within an appropriate range considering the reliability of folding, the reliability of adhesion, and the visibility of multiple openings OP.

[0118] The seventh adhesive layer AL7 (hereinafter referred to as the first cover adhesive layer) is placed beneath the support layer PLT, and the cover layer SCV is placed beneath the first cover adhesive layer AL7. The support layer PLT and the cover layer SCV are bonded together by the first cover adhesive layer AL7. The cover layer SCV is manufactured in sheet form and attached to the support layer PLT.

[0119] The first cover adhesive layer AL7 and the cover layer SCV cover multiple openings OP defined in the support layer PPL. Therefore, the cover layer SCV prevents foreign matter from entering the multiple openings OP. The cover layer SCV has a lower elastic modulus than the support layer PLT. For example, the cover layer SCV may contain thermoplastic polyurethane, rubber, silicone, etc., but the cover layer SCV is not limited to the examples shown here.

[0120] The eighth adhesive layer AL8 (hereinafter referred to as the second cover adhesive layer) is positioned beneath the cover layer SCV. The second cover adhesive layer AL8 includes the first cover portion AL8-1 and the second cover portion AL8-2. The first cover portion AL8-1 and the second cover portion AL8-2 are separated from each other. On a plane, the first cover portion AL8-1 and the second cover portion AL8-2 are separated by a plurality of openings OP in between. The first cover portion AL8-1 and the second cover portion AL8-2 do not overlap in the first region FA0.

[0121] The heat dissipation layer RHL is placed beneath the second cover adhesive layer AL8. The heat dissipation layer RHL is a sheet with high thermal conductivity. The heat dissipation layer RHL contains a metal or metal alloy, for example, it may contain copper, a copper alloy, or graphite.

[0122] The heat dissipation layer RHL includes a first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and a second heat dissipation layer RHL-2. The first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 are separated by a predetermined distance GP. The predetermined distance GP is between 0.4 mm (millimeters) and 2.4 mm, but the predetermined distance GP is not limited to the example shown herein. The predetermined distance GP is arranged to correspond to the folding region FA0.

[0123] The first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 is coupled to the cover layer SCV via the first cover portion AL8-1, and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 is coupled to the cover layer SCV via the second cover portion AL8-2. On a plane, the first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 overlaps with a portion of the first region FA0 and the second region NFA10, and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 overlaps with the other portion of the first region FA0 and the third region NFA20.

[0124] On a plane, a portion of the first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 overlaps with a portion of a plurality of openings OP, and a portion of the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 overlaps with other portions of the plurality of openings OP. The first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 serve to support the support layer PLT. For example, the region in the support layer PLT where the plurality of openings OP are defined may be supported by the first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2. Therefore, the first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2 may be referred to as the first lower support layer and the second lower support layer.

[0125] The ninth adhesive layer AL9 is positioned beneath the heat dissipation layer RHL. The ninth adhesive layer AL9 includes a first portion AL9-1 corresponding to the first heat dissipation layer RHL-1 and a second portion AL9-2 corresponding to the second heat dissipation layer RHL-2. The first portion AL9-1 and the second portion AL9-2 are separated by a predetermined distance GP.

[0126] The cushion layer CUL is placed beneath the ninth adhesive layer AL9. The thickness of the cushion layer CUL may be 75 μm, but the thickness of the cushion layer CUL is not limited to the examples shown individually. The cushion layer CUL absorbs external impacts and protects the display panel DP. The elastic modulus of the cushion layer CUL is lower than that of the support layer PLT. The cushion layer CUL includes a foam sheet having a predetermined elastic force. The cushion layer CUL includes sponge or polyurethane.

[0127] The cushion layer CUL includes a first cushion layer CUL-1 corresponding to the first portion AL9-1 and a second cushion layer CUL-2 corresponding to the second portion AL9-2. The first cushion layer CUL-1 and the second cushion layer CUL-2 are separated by a predetermined distance GP. On a plane, the predetermined distance GP between the first cushion layer CUL-1 and the second cushion layer CUL-2 overlaps with the first region FA0. On a plane, the first cushion layer CUL-1 overlaps with a portion of the first region FA0 and the second region NFA10, and the second cushion layer CUL-1 overlaps with the other portion of the first region FA0 and the third region NFA20.

[0128] Unlike the embodiments of the present invention, when the cushion layer CUL is placed between the support layer PLT and the display panel DP, if pressure is applied to the display panel DP, the shape of the cushion layer CUL will deform along with it, and there is a risk that the display panel DP will be easily deformed. However, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the cushion layer CUL is separated from the display panel DP with the support layer PLT in between. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the display panel DP, the deformation of the display panel DP is reduced compared to the comparative example. In addition, by placing the cushion layer CUL below the rigidly supported heat dissipation layer RHL, the shock absorption performance of the cushion layer CUL is improved. The insulating layer INL is placed below the cushion layer CUL. Figure 5 shows an embodiment in which insulating tape is placed. The insulating layer INL prevents the inflow of static electricity. Although not shown in Figure 5, the flexible circuit film FCB is placed on top of the insulating layer INL. The insulating layer INL prevents electrical interference between the flexible circuit film FCB and the components placed on top of the insulating layer INL.

[0129] One side of the step compensation pattern CP is bonded to the indicator layer PLT via the tenth adhesive layer AL10. The other side of the step compensation pattern CP has an eleventh adhesive layer AL11. The eleventh adhesive layer AL11 is used when the display device DD (see Figure 2) is bonded to other components of the electronic device ED (see Figure 2).

[0130] Referring to Figure 6, the bending region BA is bent such that the second panel region AA2 is positioned below the first panel region AA1. Therefore, the drive chip DIC (see Figure 5) is positioned below the first panel region AA1. In other words, the first panel region AA1 and the second panel region AA2 are positioned on different planes (or reference planes). The bending region BA is bent so as to bulge laterally in cross-section. The bending region BA has a predetermined curvature and radius of curvature. The radius of curvature is approximately 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0131] The bending protection layer BPL is placed at least in the bending region BA. The bending protection layer BPL is superimposed on the bending region BA, the first panel region AA1, and the second panel region AA2. The bending protection layer BPL is placed not only on the bending region BA, but also on a portion of the first panel region AA1 and a portion of the second panel region AA2.

[0132] The bending protection layer BPL is bent together with the bending region BA. The bending protection layer BPL protects the bending region BA from external shocks and controls the neutral plane of the bending region BA. The bending protection layer BPL controls the stress on the bending region BA so that the neutral plane is close to the signal lines located within the bending region BA.

[0133] One side of the second protective layer PPL-2, to which the second portion AL4-2 of the fourth adhesive layer AL4 is not attached, is attached to the spacer SPC. In Figures 5 and 6, the spacer SPC is shown as a single layer, but the spacer SPC may have a multilayer structure in which a base layer is placed between the two adhesive layers. The base layer contains graphite, which has excellent heat dissipation properties.

[0134] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a plan view enlarged from a portion of Figure 7. Figure 7 shows the barrier adhesive layer AL6 and the support layer PLT as examples. Figure 8 shows an enlarged view of area AA shown in Figure 7.

[0135] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the support layer PLT includes a folding region PLT-F corresponding to the first region FA0 (see Figure 5), a first region PLT-1 corresponding to the second region NFA10 (see Figure 5), and a second region PLT-2 corresponding to the third region NFA20 (see Figure 5). Multiple openings OP are formed in the folding region PLT-F.

[0136] Multiple openings OP are arranged according to a predetermined rule. Multiple openings OP are arranged in a grid pattern. Each of the multiple openings OP is defined to completely penetrate from the upper surface to the lower surface of the supporting layer PLT. The formation of multiple openings OP in the folding region PLT-F reduces the area of ​​the folding region PLT-F of the supporting layer PLT, thereby lowering the rigidity of the folding region PLT-F. Therefore, the folding region PLT-F becomes more flexible than when multiple openings OP are not formed.

[0137] The first distance GP1 between the first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 is greater than the width PLW of the folding region PLT-F in which multiple openings OP are defined. The first distance GP1 and width PLW are the distance and width in the direction parallel to the second direction DP2. If the first distance GP1 is the same as or less than the width PLW, process errors that occur during the process of attaching the first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 to the support layer PPL will cause at least one of the first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 to overlap with multiple openings OP. In this case, there is a risk that the problem of multiple openings OP being visible from the outside may occur. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first distance GP1 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value than the width PLW. The predetermined value is determined considering process errors. Therefore, at least one of the first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 does not overlap with multiple openings OP, and as a result, the phenomenon of multiple openings OP being visible from the outside does not occur.

[0138] The width AL1W of the second direction DR2 in the first barrier portion AL6-1 is smaller than the width PL1W of the second direction DR2 in the first region PLT-1, and the width AL2W of the second direction DR2 in the second barrier portion AL6-2 is smaller than the width PL2W of the second direction DR2 in the second region PLT-2.

[0139] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 5, magnified. Figure 9 shows a magnified view of the BB region shown in Figure 5.

[0140] Referring to Figures 5 and 9, the first distance GP1 between the first barrier portion AL6-1 and the second barrier portion AL6-2 is greater than the second distance DT0 between the first side wall OP1S of the first opening OP1 that is closest to the second region NFA10 among the multiple openings OP, and the second side wall OP2S of the second opening OP2 that is closest to the third region NFA20 among the multiple openings OP. For example, the first distance GP1 may be 1 mm or more greater than the second distance DT0, but the first distance GP1 shown here is just an example, and the first distance GP1 is not limited to the example shown here.

[0141] The second distance DT0 between the first side wall OP1S and the second side wall OP2S is the same as or less than the width PLW of the folding region PLT-F shown in Figure 7.

[0142] The third distance GP2 between the first cover portion AL8-1 and the second cover portion AL8-2 is greater than the width PLW (see Figure 7) of the folding region PLT-F (see Figure 7). Also, the third distance GP2 is greater than the second distance DT0. For example, the second distance DT0 may be 8.65 mm, and the first distance GP1 and the third distance GP2 may each be 9.65 mm. The difference between the first distance GP1 and the second distance DT0, and the difference between the third distance GP2 and the second distance DT0 are substantially the same. Substantially the same means they are the same within the range of fixed error.

[0143] In the portion overlapping with the first region FA0, a gap EST is defined between the barrier layer BRL and the first cover adhesive layer AL7. The gap EST is divided into a first gap ES and a plurality of second gaps ES0. The first gap ES is defined by the barrier layer BRL, the upper surface of the support layer PLT, the first barrier portion AL6-1, and the second barrier portion AL6-2, while the second gaps ES0 are each defined by a plurality of openings OP.

[0144] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line III-III' in Figure 1A. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line IV-IV' in Figure 1A.

[0145] Referring to Figure 10, a first hole HL1 is defined that penetrates from the 11th adhesive layer AL11 to the second bonding layer AL2 of the display device DD (see Figure 2). The bottom surface UTG-B of the first hole HL1 corresponds to the bottom surface of the thin-film glass substrate UTG.

[0146] The first electronic module CM is either superimposed on the first hole HL1 or inserted into the first hole HL1. The first electronic module CM is a camera module. The first electronic module CM acquires an image through the first sensing region SA1. The first hole HL1 is defined not only in the lower member LM but also in the display panel DP. Therefore, the first sensing region SA1 cannot display an image. However, the example shown here is just one example, and the first hole HL1 that houses the first electronic module CM does not have to penetrate the display panel DP. In this case, the first sensing region SA1 can display an image.

[0147] On a plane, the light-shielding pattern BP-C, which superimposes on the boundary of the first sensing region SA1, is positioned between the plastic film PF and the first bonding layer AL1. The light-shielding pattern BP-C has a circular annular shape.

[0148] Referring to Figure 11, a second hole HL2 is defined that penetrates from the 11th adhesive layer AL11 to the 5th bonding layer AL5 of the display device DD (see Figure 2). The bottom surface PPL-B of the second hole HL2 corresponds to the bottom surface of the panel protective layer PPL. The second electronic module IM is inserted into the second hole HL2. The second electronic module IM is an illuminance sensor.

[0149] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, the depth DT1 of the first hole HL1 is greater than the depth DT2 of the second hole HL2. The number of components of the display device DD (see Figure 2) superimposed on the first sensing region SA1 is fewer than the number of components of the display device DD (see Figure 2) superimposed on the second sensing region SA2. Therefore, the transmittance of the first sensing region SA1 is higher than that of the second sensing region SA2.

[0150] Figure 12 is a rear view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Figure 12 shows the underside of the support layer PLT. The cover layer SCV, heat dissipation layer RHL, cushion layer CUL, and insulating layer INL are arranged sequentially on the underside of the support layer PLT. This laminated structure is positioned in a portion of the underside of the support layer PLT. The cover layer SCV, heat dissipation layer RHL, cushion layer CUL, and insulating layer INL are spaced apart from the first hole HL1 and the second hole HL2.

[0152] The cover layer SCV is superimposed on the folding region PLT-F. In one embodiment of the present invention, it was shown that the area decreases from the cover layer SCV, heat dissipation layer RHL, cushion layer CUL, to insulating layer INL, but the invention is not limited to the example shown herein. The spacer SPC is arranged at a distance from the laminated structure. The 11th adhesive layer AL11 is arranged on the outside of the laminated structure and along the edge of the support layer PLT.

[0153] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings, a person skilled in the art or with ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present invention can be modified and altered in various ways without departing from the concept and technical domain of the invention as described in the claims below. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to what is described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined by the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] ED:Electronic device DD: Display device DP: Display panel BRL: Barrier layer PLT: Support layer OP: Multiple openings OP1: First opening OP2: 2nd opening OP1S: 1st side wall OP2S: Second side wall CUL: Cushion layer AL6: Barrier adhesive layer AL6-1: First barrier portion AL6-2: Second barrier layer CUL-1: First cushion layer CUL-2: Second cushion layer

Claims

1. A display panel including a foldable area and a non-foldable area adjacent to the foldable area along a first direction, A barrier layer facing the display panel, A support layer facing the display panel, separated by the barrier layer, The support layer has a plurality of openings that correspond to the folding area of ​​the display panel, A cover layer is placed below the support layer and covers the plurality of openings, A space defined between the barrier layer and the support layer, and formed in the portion corresponding to the plurality of openings, A display device, including a display device.

2. The barrier layer includes a colored polyimide film. The display device according to claim 1.

3. The barrier layer includes a light-shielding material. The display device according to claim 1.

4. The support layer extends longer than the barrier layer along the first direction. The display device according to claim 1.

5. A cushion layer facing the display panel, sandwiched between the support layer, A barrier adhesive layer is provided between the barrier layer and the support layer, and includes a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion that are spaced apart from each other along the first direction with the plurality of openings in the support layer in between, The display device according to claim 1, further comprising:

6. The support layer faces both the folded region and the unfolded region. Along the first direction, the cushion layer, the support layer, and the barrier layer each have a width, wherein the width of the cushion layer is narrower than the width of the support layer, and the width of the barrier layer is narrower than the width of the support layer. The display device according to claim 5.

7. The cushion layer includes a first cushion layer and a second cushion layer spaced apart from each other at intervals along the first direction. The distance between the first cushion layer and the second cushion layer that separates them from each other corresponds to the folding area of ​​the display panel. The display device according to claim 5.

8. The support layer and the cushion layer each have an elastic modulus, and the elastic modulus of the support layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the cushion layer. The display device according to claim 5.

9. The barrier adhesive layer and the barrier layer each have a thickness, and the thickness of the barrier adhesive layer is less than the thickness of the barrier layer. The display device according to claim 5.

10. Each of the cushion layer and the barrier layer has a thickness, and the thickness of the cushion layer is greater than the thickness of the barrier layer. The display device according to claim 5.

11. The display panel and the barrier layer further include an upper adhesive layer, The upper adhesive layer attaches the display panel to the barrier layer. The upper adhesive layer and the barrier adhesive layer each have a thickness, The thickness of the upper adhesive layer is greater than the thickness of the barrier adhesive layer. The display device according to claim 5.

12. The first barrier portion and the second barrier portion are separated from each other by a first distance along the first direction. Along the first direction, the plurality of openings corresponding to the folding area of ​​the display panel include a first opening closest to the non-folding area and a second opening furthest from the non-folding area. The support layer includes, along a first direction, a first side wall closest to the non-folding region and defining the first opening, and a second side wall furthest from the non-folding region and defining the second opening, The distance between the first side wall and the second side wall is the second distance. The first distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion is greater than the second distance between the first side wall and the second side wall of the support layer. The display device according to claim 5.

13. Along the first direction, the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion are separated by a certain distance from each other, and the certain distance between the first barrier portion and the second barrier portion is greater than the width of the region in which the plurality of openings are defined. The display device according to claim 5.

14. The non-foldable area of ​​the display panel includes the display area, An opening corresponding to the aforementioned display area and penetrating the support layer, Along the first direction, the cushion layer is spaced apart from the opening that penetrates the support layer, Further including, The display device according to claim 5.

15. The display panel includes a foldable area into which the display panel is folded, A support layer facing the display panel, The support layer has a plurality of openings that correspond to the foldable area of ​​the display panel, A cushion layer comprising a first cushion layer and a second cushion layer that are separated from each other in the foldable region of the display panel, with the support layer in between, Electronic devices, including those mentioned above.

16. A barrier layer is provided between the display panel and the support layer, A barrier adhesive layer provided between the barrier layer and the support layer, comprising a first barrier adhesive layer between the barrier layer and the support layer, and a second barrier adhesive layer between the barrier layer and the display panel, It further includes, The first barrier adhesive layer includes a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion that are separated from each other with respect to the plurality of openings. The electronic device according to claim 15.

17. The space defined between the barrier layer and the support layer, and further including the space overlapping the plurality of openings, The electronic device according to claim 16.

18. The barrier layer includes a colored polyimide film. The electronic device according to claim 16.

19. The barrier layer includes a light-shielding material. The electronic device according to claim 16.

20. The barrier layer has a first elastic modulus, The cushion layer has a second elastic modulus that is lower than the first elastic modulus of the support layer. The electronic device according to claim 16.

Images