Display device

Abstract

A display device according to one embodiment comprises: a substrate including a display area and a non-display area; a display layer positioned on the substrate and overlapping the display area; and a support plate disposed under the substrate. The support plate comprises: a first area positioned on the rear surface of the display layer; a second area connected to the first area and including a lattice pattern; and a third area connected to the second area and positioned on the rear surface of the first area, wherein the second area is bent and overlaps a bending area in the non-display area of the substrate.

Description

display device

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

[0002] A display device includes pixels and can display an image on a display screen by controlling the brightness of each pixel. The display device may include a touch sensing unit capable of detecting a user's touch. The display device may include a display panel on which pixels are formed. The touch sensing unit may be provided on the display panel. For example, the display panel may include a touch sensing unit, or a panel including a touch sensing unit may be attached to the display panel.

[0003] The display device may include a flexible printed circuit board for transmitting signals for driving pixels and signals for driving a touch sensor to the display panel.

[0004] The embodiments are directed to providing a display device in which a portion of a substrate is bent and impact resistance in the bending region is improved.

[0005] A display device according to one embodiment includes a substrate including a display area and a non-display area, a display layer positioned on the substrate and overlapping the display area, and a support plate positioned below the substrate, wherein the support plate includes a first area positioned on a back surface of the display layer, a second area connected to the first area and including a grid pattern, and a third area connected to the second area and positioned on a back surface of the first area, wherein the second area is bent and overlaps a bending area among the non-display areas of the substrate.

[0006] The bending region of the above substrate and the second region may not be coupled to each other.

[0007] The bending region of the above substrate and the second region may be spaced apart from each other.

[0008] The display device may further include an adhesive layer positioned between the first region and the substrate, and between the third region and the substrate.

[0009] The display device may further include a buffer member positioned between the first region and the third region.

[0010] The thicknesses of the first region, the second region, and the third region may be the same.

[0011] The thickness of the second region may be smaller than the thickness of the first region.

[0012] The thickness of the third region may be smaller than the thickness of the first region.

[0013] The thicknesses of the second region and the third region may be the same.

[0014] When the support plate is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region can be positioned on the same plane as the upper surfaces of the first region and the third region.

[0015] When the support plate is unfolded, the lower surface of the second region can be positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region and the third region.

[0016] It may further include an auxiliary buffer member positioned between the substrate and the second region.

[0017] A display device according to one embodiment includes a substrate including a display area and a non-display area, a display layer positioned on the substrate and overlapping the display area, and a support plate positioned below the substrate, wherein the support plate includes a first area positioned on a back surface of the display layer, a second area connected to the first area and including a grid pattern, and a third area connected to the second area and located on a back surface of the first area, wherein the first area and the substrate, and the third area and the substrate, are joined by an adhesive layer, and a separation space is included between the second area and the substrate.

[0018] It may further include a buffer member positioned between the first region and the third region.

[0019] The thicknesses of the first region, the second region, and the third region may be the same.

[0020] The thickness of the second region may be smaller than the thickness of the first region.

[0021] The thickness of the third region may be smaller than the thickness of the first region.

[0022] The thicknesses of the second region and the third region may be the same.

[0023] When the support plate is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region can be positioned on the same plane as the upper surfaces of the first region and the third region.

[0024] When the support plate is unfolded, the lower surface of the second region can be positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region and the third region.

[0025] According to embodiments, a display device can be provided in which a portion of a substrate is bent and impact resistance in the bent area is improved.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a state of use of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a display device according to another embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 5 is a plan view of a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0039] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment.

[0040] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment.

[0042] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0043] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0044] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0045] Furthermore, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to the illustrated components. In the drawings, the thicknesses are enlarged to clearly represent various layers and regions. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0046] Furthermore, when we say that a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is "above" or "on" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "directly above" the other part, but also cases where there are other parts in between. Conversely, when we say that a part is "directly above" another part, we mean that there are no other parts in between. Furthermore, saying that a part is "above" or "on" a reference part means that it is located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that it is located "above" or "on" the opposite direction of gravity.

[0047] Additionally, throughout the specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0048] Additionally, throughout the specification, when we say "in plan", we mean when the target portion is viewed from above, and when we say "in cross section", we mean when the target portion is viewed from the side in a cross-section cut vertically.

[0049] Hereinafter, the structure of a display device will be described schematically with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a state of use of a display device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, a display device (1000) according to one embodiment is a device that displays a moving image or a still image, and can be used as a display screen for various products such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a mobile communication terminal, an electronic notebook, an electronic book, a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation device, an Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC), and the like, as well as a television, a laptop, a monitor, a billboard, and the Internet of Things (IOT). In addition, the display device (1000) according to one embodiment can be used for a wearable device such as a smart watch, a watch phone, a glasses-type display, and a head mounted display (HMD). In addition, the display device (1000) according to one embodiment may be used as a dashboard of a vehicle, a CID (Center Information Display) placed on the center fascia or dashboard of a vehicle, a room mirror display replacing a side mirror of a vehicle, and a display placed on the back of the front seat as entertainment for the rear seat of a vehicle. For convenience of explanation, Fig. 1 illustrates the display device (1000) being used as a smart phone.

[0051] The display device (1000) can display an image in a third direction (DR3) on a display surface parallel to each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The display surface on which the image is displayed can correspond to the front surface of the display device (1000) and can correspond to the front surface of the cover window (CW). The image can include a still image as well as a dynamic image.

[0052] In this embodiment, the front (or upper surface) and the back (or lower surface) of each member are defined based on the direction in which the image is displayed. The front and the back are opposed to each other in a third direction (DR3), and the normal directions of each of the front and the back may be parallel to the third direction (DR3). The separation distance between the front and the back in the third direction (DR3) may correspond to the thickness of the display panel in the third direction (DR3).

[0053] A display device (1000) according to one embodiment can detect a user input applied from the outside (see hand in FIG. 1). The user input may include various forms of external input, such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, or pressure. In one embodiment, the user input is illustrated as the user's hand applied to the front. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The user input may be provided in various forms, and the display device (1000) may also detect a user input applied to the side or back of the display device (1000) depending on the structure of the display device (1000).

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a display device (1000) may include a cover window (CW), a housing (HM), a display panel (DP), and an optical element (ES). In one embodiment, the cover window (CW) and the housing (HM) may be combined to form the exterior of the display device (1000).

[0055] The cover window (CW) may include an insulating panel. For example, the cover window (CW) may be composed of glass, plastic, or a combination thereof.

[0056] The front surface of the cover window (CW) may define the front surface of the display device (1000). The transmissive area (TA) may be an optically transparent area. For example, the transmissive area (TA) may be an area having a visible light transmittance of about 90% or more.

[0057] A blocking area (BBA) can define the shape of a transmissive area (TA). The blocking area (BBA) can be adjacent to and surround the transmissive area (TA). The blocking area (BBA) can be an area having relatively low light transmittance compared to the transmissive area (TA). The blocking area (BBA) can include an opaque material that blocks light. The blocking area (BBA) can have a predetermined color. The blocking area (BBA) can be defined by a bezel layer provided separately from a transparent substrate defining the transmissive area (TA), or by an ink layer formed by inserting or coloring the transparent substrate.

[0058] A display panel (DP) may include display pixels (PX) that display an image and a driver (50), and the display pixels (PX) are located within a display area (DA) and a component area (EA). The display panel (DP) may include a front surface including a display area (DA) and a non-display area (PA). In one embodiment, the display area (DA) and the component area (EA) may be areas where an image is displayed, including pixels, and at the same time, areas where a touch sensor is located above the pixels in a third direction (DR3) to detect an external input.

[0059] The transparent area (TA) of the cover window (CW) may overlap at least partially with the display area (DA) and the component area (EA) of the display panel (DP). For example, the transparent area (TA) may overlap the entire surface of the display area (DA) and the component area (EA), or may overlap at least partially with the display area (DA) and the component area (EA). Accordingly, a user may view an image through the transparent area (TA) or provide an external input based on the image. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the area where the image is displayed and the area where the external input is sensed may be separated from each other.

[0060] A non-display area (PA) of a display panel (DP) may overlap at least partially with a blocking area (BBA) of a cover window (CW). The non-display area (PA) may be an area covered by the blocking area (BBA). The non-display area (PA) is adjacent to the display area (DA) and may surround the display area (DA). An image is not displayed in the non-display area (PA), and a driving circuit or driving wiring for driving the display area (DA) may be disposed therein. The non-display area (PA) may include a first non-display area (PA1) in which the display area (DA) is positioned on the outside, and a second non-display area (PA2) including a driving unit (50), a connecting wiring, and a bending area. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first non-display area (PA1) is positioned on three sides of the display area (DA), and the second non-display area (PA2) is positioned on the remaining side of the display area (DA).

[0061] A portion of the non-display area (PA) of the display panel (DP) may be bent. In this case, a portion of the non-display area (PA) may face the back surface of the display device (1000), thereby reducing the blocking area (BBA) visible on the front surface of the display device (1000). In FIG. 2, the second non-display area (PA2) may be bent and positioned on the back surface of the display area (DA) before assembly.

[0062] In addition, the component area (EA) of the display panel (DP) may include a first component area (EA1) and a second component area (EA2). The first component area (EA1) and the second component area (EA2) may be at least partially surrounded by the display area (DA). The first component area (EA1) and the second component area (EA2) are illustrated as being spaced apart from each other, but are not limited thereto and may be at least partially connected. The first component area (EA1) and the second component area (EA2) may be areas in which optical elements (see ES of FIG. 2; hereinafter also referred to as components) that utilize infrared rays, visible light, or sound are disposed therebelow.

[0063] The display area (DA; also referred to as the main display area hereinafter) and the component area (EA) are formed with a plurality of light-emitting diodes and a plurality of pixel circuits that generate and transmit light-emitting current to each of the plurality of light-emitting diodes. Here, one light-emitting diode and one pixel circuit are referred to as a pixel (PX). In the display area (DA) and the component area (EA), one pixel circuit and one light-emitting diode can be formed one-to-one.

[0064] The first component area (EA1) may include a transparent portion that allows light and / or sound to pass through and a display layer including a plurality of pixels. The transparent portion is located between adjacent pixels and is composed of a layer that allows light and / or sound to pass through. The transparent portion may be located between adjacent pixels, and in some embodiments, a layer that does not allow light to pass through, such as a light-blocking member, may overlap the first component area (EA1). The number of pixels per unit area (hereinafter also referred to as a resolution) of pixels included in the display area (DA) (hereinafter also referred to as normal pixels) may be the same as the number of pixels per unit area of ​​pixels included in the first component area (EA1) (hereinafter also referred to as first component pixels).

[0065] The second component area (EA2) includes an area (hereinafter also referred to as a light-transmitting area) formed of a transparent layer that allows light to pass through, and the light-transmitting area may have a structure in which a conductive layer or a semiconductor layer is not positioned and a layer including a light-blocking material, for example, a pixel defining layer and / or a light-blocking member, includes an opening that overlaps a position corresponding to the second component area (EA2), thereby not blocking light. The number of pixels per unit area of ​​pixels included in the second component area (EA2) (hereinafter also referred to as second component pixels) may be smaller than the number of pixels per unit area of ​​normal pixels included in the display area (DA). As a result, the resolution of the second component pixels may be lower than the resolution of the normal pixels.

[0066] The second non-display area (PA2) may include a bending portion. The display area (DA) and the first non-display area (PA1) may have a flat state substantially parallel to a plane defined by the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), and one side of the second non-display area (PA2) may extend from the flat state, pass through the bending portion, and then have a flat state again. As a result, at least a portion of the second non-display area (PA2) may be assembled to be bent and positioned on the back side of the display area (DA). Since at least a portion of the second non-display area (PA2) overlaps the display area (DA) in a plane when assembled, the blocking area (BBA) of the display device (1000) may be reduced.

[0067] The driving unit (50) may be mounted on the second non-display area (PA2), may be mounted on the bending unit, or may be located on one of both sides of the bending unit. The driving unit (50) may be provided in the form of a chip.

[0068] The driving unit (50) is electrically connected to the display area (DA) and the component area (EA) and can transmit electrical signals to pixels of the display area (DA) and the component area (EA). For example, the driving unit (50) can provide data signals to pixels (PX) arranged in the display area (DA). Alternatively, the driving unit (50) can include a touch driving circuit and can be electrically connected to a touch sensor (TS) arranged in the display area (DA) and / or the component area (EA). Meanwhile, the driving unit (50) can include various circuits in addition to the circuits described above or can be designed to provide various electrical signals to the display area (DA).

[0069] Meanwhile, the display device (1000) may have a pad portion positioned at the end of the second non-display area (PA2), and may be electrically connected to a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) including a driving chip through the pad portion. Here, the driving chip positioned on the flexible printed circuit board may include various driving circuits for driving the display device (1000), a connector for power supply, etc. Depending on the embodiment, a rigid printed circuit board (PCB) may be used instead of the flexible printed circuit board.

[0070] The optical element (ES) may be arranged at the bottom of the display panel (DP). The optical element (ES) may include a first optical element (ES1) overlapping the first component area (EA1) and a second optical element (ES2) overlapping the second component area (EA2). The first optical element (ES1) may use infrared rays, and in this case, the first component area (EA1) may have a layer that does not transmit light, such as a light-blocking member, overlapping the first component area (EA1).

[0071] The first optical element (ES1) may be an electronic element that utilizes light or sound. For example, the first optical element (ES1) may be a sensor that receives and utilizes light, such as an infrared sensor; a sensor that outputs and detects light or sound to measure distance or recognize fingerprints; a small lamp that outputs light; or a speaker that outputs sound. In the case of electronic elements that utilize light, it goes without saying that light of various wavelengths, such as visible light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light, can be utilized.

[0072] The second optical element (ES2) may be at least one of a camera, an infrared camera (IR camera), a dot projector, an infrared illuminator, and a time-of-flight sensor (ToF sensor).

[0073] The housing (HM) can be coupled with a cover window (CW). The cover window (CW) can be arranged on the front of the housing (HM). The housing (HM) can be coupled with the cover window (CW) to provide a predetermined receiving space. The display panel (DP) and the optical element (ES) can be accommodated in the predetermined receiving space provided between the housing (HM) and the cover window (CW).

[0074] The housing (HM) may include a material with relatively high rigidity. For example, the housing (HM) may include a plurality of frames and / or plates made of glass, plastic, or metal, or a combination thereof. The housing (HM) can reliably protect the components of the display device (1000) housed in the internal space from external impact.

[0075] Hereinafter, the structure of a display device (1000) according to another embodiment will be examined through FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment. Descriptions of the same components as the aforementioned components will be omitted, and the embodiment of FIG. 3 illustrates a foldable display device having a structure in which the display device (1000) is folded through a folding axis (FAX).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the display device (1000) may be a foldable display device. The display device (1000) may be folded outward or inward with respect to the folding axis (FAX). When folded outward with respect to the folding axis (FAX), the display surface of the display device (1000) may be positioned outward in the third direction (DR3), so that images may be displayed in both directions. When folded inward with respect to the folding axis (FAX), the display surface may not be visible from the outside.

[0077] In one embodiment, the display device (1000) may include a display area (DA), a component area (EA), and a non-display area (PA). The display area (DA) may be divided into a first display area (DA1-1), a first display area (DA1-2), and a folding area (FA). The first display area (DA1-1) and the first display area (DA1-2) may be positioned on the left and right sides, respectively, with respect to (or centered on) the folding axis (FAX), and the folding area (FA) may be positioned between the first display area (DA1-1) and the first display area (DA1-2). In this case, when folded outward with respect to the folding axis (FAX), the first display area (DA1-1) and the first display area (DA1-2) are positioned on both sides in the third direction (DR3), and images may be displayed in both directions. Additionally, when folded inward based on the folding axis (FAX), the 1-1 display area (DA1-1) and the 1-2 display area (DA1-2) may not be visible from the outside.

[0078] Hereinafter, a display device according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display device according to one embodiment, FIG. 5 is a plan view of a support plate according to one embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the support plate according to one embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 4 shows an area (BA) in which a substrate (SUB) is bent among a non-display area (PA) of a display panel (DP) according to one embodiment.

[0080] A cover window (CW) may be positioned on the upper portion of the display panel (DP). The cover window (CW) may cover the upper portion of the display panel (DP). The cover window (CW) may protect the upper surface of the display panel (DP).

[0081] The cover window (CW) may include a base layer (CW1) and a protective layer (CW2). In one embodiment, the base layer (CW1) may be formed of a transparent material. In this case, the base layer (CW1) may include glass, a synthetic resin made of a transparent material, or the like. The base layer (CW1) may include at least one layer.

[0082] The protective layer (CW2) is disposed on the upper surface of the base layer (CW1) to prevent or minimize scratches or the like from occurring on the base layer (CW1). An opaque layer (CWa) may be disposed on a portion of the protective layer (CW2). In one embodiment, the opaque layer (CWa) may be disposed on an edge of the protective layer (CW2). The opaque layer (CWa) may block light. The opaque layer (CWa) may include a pattern that can be shown to a user when an image is not displayed.

[0083] The cover window (CW) can be bonded to the display panel (DP) by a first adhesive layer (AD1). The first adhesive layer (AD1) can be a transparent adhesive material such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film.

[0084] A schematic laminated structure of a display panel (DP) will be described. The display panel (DP) may include a display layer (DL) and a touch sensing unit (not shown) positioned on the display layer (DL). The display layer (DL) may include a driving element layer, a light emitting element layer, and an encapsulation layer positioned on a substrate (SUB).

[0085] The substrate (SUB) may be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate (SUB) may be a flexible substrate containing a polymer resin such as polyimide, polyamide, or polyethylene terephthalate. A driving element layer may be positioned on the substrate (SUB). The driving element layer may include transistors and capacitors that constitute pixel circuit units that output driving currents to light-emitting elements.

[0086] The driving element layer may include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan-out lines connecting the display driver and the data lines, lead lines connecting the display driver and the display pads, etc. The driving element layer may include transistors and capacitors constituting the gate driver, and gate control lines. The driving element layer may include conductive layers, semiconductor layers, and insulating layers, and a combination thereof may form and insulate the transistors, capacitors, and signal lines.

[0087] The light-emitting element layer may be positioned over the driving element layer and may include light-emitting elements and corresponding light-emitting regions. The light-emitting element layer may include a pixel defining layer having openings defining the light-emitting regions.

[0088] An encapsulating layer (also called a thin film encapsulating layer) can cover the upper and side surfaces of the light-emitting element layer and prevent moisture or oxygen from penetrating into the light-emitting element layer from the outside. The encapsulating layer can include one or more inorganic layers and one or more organic layers.

[0089] The touch sensing portion may be positioned on the encapsulating layer and may include sensing electrodes. The sensing electrodes may sense the user's touch using a mutual capacitor method and / or a magnetic capacitor method.

[0090] According to one embodiment, a substrate (SUB) may include a bending area (BA) that is bent in a non-display area (PA). The bending area (BA) may be bent such that a portion of the non-display area (PA) is positioned on the back surface of the display layer (DL).

[0091] At this time, a bending protection layer (BPL) may be placed on the portion where the substrate (SUB) is bent to prevent cracks in the substrate (SUB). The bending protection layer (BPL) may include a polymer resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), etc.

[0092] A portion of the substrate (SUB) may be bent and positioned on the back surface of the display panel (DP). The aforementioned driving unit (50) may be disposed on the portion. In addition, the bending protection layer (BPL), the driving unit (50), and a portion of the substrate (SUB) may be covered by a cover (CC). The cover (CC) may be applied to cover at least a portion of the driving unit (50) and the flexible printed circuit board (not shown) to protect them from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electrostatic discharge (ESD). In addition, the cover (CVR) may prevent the driving unit (50) and the like from direct contact with external objects, thereby protecting them from physical damage caused by friction, etc.

[0093] A support plate (PL) may be positioned at the bottom of the substrate (SUB). The support plate (PL) may include a material having high rigidity, and examples thereof include copper, stainless steel (SUS), aluminum (Al), graphite, carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), glass, etc. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is a plastic obtained by impregnating resin into carbon fiber (CF) and hardening it, and glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) is a material obtained by combining glass fiber and a thermosetting resin such as unsaturated polyester or epoxy resin. The support plate (PL) may protect the display panel (DP) during the manufacturing process of the display device, etc.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the support plate (PL) may include a first region (PLa) located on the back surface of the substrate (SUB), a second region (PLb) overlapping the bending region (BA), and a third region (PLc) overlapping the driving unit (50). The second region (PLb) may be located between the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc). In other words, the second region (PLb) may be located on one side of the first region (PLa), and the third region (PLc) may be located on one side of the second region (PLb). The third region (PLc) may be arranged at an edge of the support plate (PL).

[0095] The first region (PLa), the second region (PLb), and the third region (PLc) may have a flat plate shape having a rectangular shape in plan view. In one embodiment, the plan view area of ​​the first region (PLa) may be larger than the plan view areas of the second region (PLb) and the third region (PLc), but is not limited thereto. The thicknesses of the first region (PLa), the second region (PLb), and the third region (PLc) may be the same.

[0096] The second region (PLb) may include a second grid pattern (SL2) overlapping the bending region (BA) so that the substrate (SUB) can be easily bent in the bending region (BA).

[0097] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the first region (PLa) may include a metal folding region (PLf) in which the display device overlaps the folding region (FA). The metal folding region (PLf) may include a first grid pattern (SL1) so that the support plate (PL) can be easily bent in the folding region (FA). The first grid pattern (SL1) may be positioned in the middle of the first region (PLa), but is not limited thereto, and the position of the first grid pattern (SL1) may be determined depending on the position of the folding region (FA).

[0098] The first grid pattern (SL1) and the second grid pattern (SL2) may include a plurality of slits penetrating the support plate (PL) in a third direction (DR3). The plurality of slits may be rod-shaped and extend along the second direction (DR2). Each of the plurality of slits may be spaced apart from each other to form a grid pattern. The first grid pattern (SL1) and the second grid pattern (SL2) may be easily folded due to the plurality of slits.

[0099] According to one embodiment, a display device can be repeatedly switched by a user between an unfolded state (first state) and a folded state (second state) based on a folding area (FA). A first area (PLa) of a support plate (PL) can be repeatedly switched between a folded state and an unfolded state based on a first grid pattern (SL1). On the other hand, a second area (PLb) including a second grid pattern (SL2) can be bent during a manufacturing process of the display device, and can maintain a bent state regardless of folding and unfolding of the display device.

[0100] The folding area (FA) of the support plate (PL) undergoes a continuous cycle of folding and unfolding during use of the display device, more so than the bending area (BA). Therefore, the first grid pattern (SL1) may have a slit shape more suitable for folding characteristics than the second grid pattern (SL2).

[0101] For example, a first distance between adjacent first grid patterns (SL1) in a folding area (FA) may be smaller than a second distance between adjacent second grid patterns (SL2) in a bending area (BA). The first distance and the second distance represent a separation distance between grid patterns along the first direction (DR1).

[0102] In addition, the second width of the second grid pattern (SL2) located in the bending area (BA) of the support plate (PL) may be larger than the first width of the first grid pattern (SL1) located in the folding area (FA). The first width and the second width represent the widths that one grid pattern has along the first direction (DR1). In the folding area (FA), the larger the area of ​​the support plate (PL) that supports the substrate (SUB), the better the characteristics of supporting the substrate (SUB). Therefore, in the folding area (FA), the first width of the first grid pattern (SL1) may be smaller than the width of the second grid pattern (SL2) in order to support the substrate (SUB) more stably.

[0103] However, the shapes of the first grid pattern (SL1) and the second grid pattern (SL2) are not limited to the above-described contents, and the shapes of the first grid pattern (SL1) and the second grid pattern (SL2) may be formed differently or the same depending on the needs of a person skilled in the art.

[0104] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 6, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may protrude beyond the edge of the substrate (SUB). The support plate (PL) is attached to the substrate (SUB) during the manufacturing process, thereby preventing the substrate (SUB) from colliding with another device and being damaged during the manufacturing process.

[0105] Although FIG. 6 illustrates a support plate (PL) positioned directly on the back surface of the substrate (SUB), according to one embodiment, the substrate (SUB) and the support plate (PL) may be coupled by an adhesive layer. Referring to FIG. 4, a second adhesive layer (AD2) according to one embodiment may be positioned between the substrate (SUB) and the first region (PLa). The second adhesive layer (AD2) may couple the substrate (SUB) and the first region (PLa). In addition, a third adhesive layer (AD3) may be positioned between the substrate (SUB) and the third region (PLc). The third adhesive layer (AD3) may couple the substrate (SUB) and the third region (PLc). The second adhesive layer (AD2) and the third adhesive layer (AD3) may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The second adhesive layer (AD2) and the third adhesive layer (AD3) may overlap along the third direction (DR3).

[0106] A separate adhesive layer may not be positioned between the second region (PLb) and the substrate (SUB). A space corresponding to the thickness of the adhesive layers (AD2, AD3) may be positioned between the second region (PLb) and the substrate (SUB). Depending on the embodiment, the second region (PLb) and the substrate (SUB) may be in contact, but the second region (PLb) and the substrate (SUB) may be positioned in a state of simply contacting each other without being bonded to each other.

[0107] A buffer member (CS) may be positioned between the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc). A space may be provided between the buffer member (CS) and the second region (PLb). The buffer member (CS) may absorb external impacts to prevent the display panel (DP) or the like from being damaged. The buffer member (CS) may include an elastic material, such as a sponge formed by foaming rubber, a urethane-based material, or an acrylic-based material.

[0108] Although this specification illustrates a buffer member (CS) positioned between the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc), it is not limited thereto and, depending on the embodiment, the buffer member (CS) may be replaced with an adhesive layer or an air gap.

[0109] In one embodiment, a display device may include a support plate positioned on the back of the display panel instead of a separate film. The support plate can improve the prevention of foreign matter from entering the display panel during the manufacturing process, scratches from the process, and static electricity generation. By replacing the film, the process can be simplified and the impact resistance of the display device can be improved. Furthermore, by reducing the thickness of components positioned on the back of the display panel, a slimmer display device can be provided.

[0110] According to one embodiment, a support plate may be coupled to a substrate overlapping a display area, and may overlap the bending area but not be coupled to the bending area. Even if slippage of the display panel occurs, the substrate and the support plate are not coupled in the bending area, thereby preventing the occurrence of defects such as buckling or cracking.

[0111] Below, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a display device according to another embodiment is described.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may include a first region (PLa) overlapping a display layer (DL), a second region (PLb) overlapping a bending region (BA), and a third region (PLc) overlapping a driving unit (50). The second region (PLb) may include a second grid pattern (SL2) overlapping the bending region (BA). The second grid pattern (SL2) may include a plurality of slits penetrating the support plate (PL) in a third direction (DR3).

[0113] The first region (PLa) may have a first thickness (t1), the second region (PLb) may have a second thickness (t2), and the third region (PLc) may have a third thickness (t3). The second thickness (t2) may be smaller than the first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3). The first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3) may be the same. The second region (PLb) may be provided with a thin thickness while improving the impact resistance of the bending region (BA), thereby facilitating bending.

[0114] According to one embodiment, when the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region (PLb) may be positioned on the same plane as the upper surface of the first region (PLa) and the upper surface of the third region (PLc). The second region (PLb) may have a recessed cross-sectional shape compared to the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc).

[0115] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described above will be omitted.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may include a first region (PLa) overlapping with a display layer (DL), a second region (PLb) overlapping with a bending region (BA), and a third region (PLc) overlapping with a driving unit (50). The second region (PLb) may include a second grid pattern (SL2) overlapping with the bending region (BA). The second grid pattern (SL2) may include a plurality of slits penetrating the support plate (PL) in a third direction (DR3).

[0117] The first region (PLa) may have a first thickness (t1), the second region (PLb) may have a second thickness (t2), and the third region (PLc) may have a third thickness (t3). The second thickness (t2) and the third thickness (t3) may be smaller than the first thickness (t1). The second thickness (t2) and the third thickness (t3) may be the same. The first region (PLa) is provided with a relatively thick thickness, thereby protecting a display panel positioned on a substrate (SUB), and the second region (PLb) is provided with a thin thickness, thereby improving the impact resistance of the bending region (BA), thereby facilitating bending. In addition, the third region (PLc) is provided with a relatively thin thickness, thereby reducing the thickness of the display device.

[0118] According to one embodiment, when the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region (PLb) may be positioned on the same plane as the upper surface of the first region (PLa) and the upper surface of the third region (PLc).

[0119] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described above will be omitted.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may include a first region (PLa) overlapping a display layer (DL), a second region (PLb) overlapping a bending region (BA), and a third region (PLc) overlapping a driving unit (50). The second region (PLb) may include a second grid pattern (SL2) overlapping the bending region (BA). The second grid pattern (SL2) may include a plurality of slits penetrating the support plate (PL) in a third direction (DR3).

[0121] The first region (PLa) may have a first thickness (t1), the second region (PLb) may have a second thickness (t2), and the third region (PLc) may have a third thickness (t3). The first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3) may be the same. The second thickness (t2) may be smaller than the first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3). The second region (PLb) may be provided with a thin thickness while improving the impact resistance of the bending region (BA), thereby facilitating bending.

[0122] The second region (PLb) can be spaced apart from the bending region (BA) of the substrate (SUB). The second region (PLb) can be arranged adjacent to the buffer member (CS). That is, when the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the lower surface of the second region (PLb) can be positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc). When the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region (PLb) can be spaced apart from the substrate (SUB), and a space can be formed between the substrate (SUB) and the second region (PLb). As the space is formed, direct contact between the substrate (SUB) and the second region (PLb) does not occur, thereby reducing the impact that the substrate (SUB) may receive when the support plate (PL) is bent.

[0123] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described above will be omitted.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may include a first region (PLa) overlapping a display layer (DL), a second region (PLb) overlapping a bending region (BA), and a third region (PLc) overlapping a driving unit (50). The second region (PLb) may include a second grid pattern (SL2) overlapping the bending region (BA). The second grid pattern (SL2) may include a plurality of slits penetrating the support plate (PL) in a third direction (DR3).

[0125] The first region (PLa) may have a first thickness (t1), the second region (PLb) may have a second thickness (t2), and the third region (PLc) may have a third thickness (t3). The first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3) may be the same. The second thickness (t2) may be smaller than the first thickness (t1) and the third thickness (t3). The second region (PLb) may be provided with a thin thickness while improving the impact resistance of the bending region (BA), thereby facilitating bending.

[0126] The second region (PLb) can be spaced apart from the bending region (BA) of the substrate (SUB). The second region (PLb) can be arranged adjacent to the buffer member (CS). In a state where the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the lower surface of the second region (PLb) can be positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc). In a state where the support plate (PL) is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region (PLb) can be spaced apart from the substrate (SUB), and a space can be formed between the substrate (SUB) and the second region (PLb).

[0127] A display device according to one embodiment may further include an auxiliary buffer member (CSa) positioned between the substrate (SUB) and the second region (PLb). The auxiliary buffer member (CSa) may absorb external impact. The auxiliary buffer member (CSa) may include an elastic material, such as a sponge formed by foaming rubber, a urethane-based material, or an acrylic-based material.

[0128] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a support plate according to another embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described above will be omitted.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may include a first region (PLa) overlapping with a display layer (DL), and a third region (PLc) overlapping with a driving unit (50).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the support plate (PL) may have a form completely removed from the bending area (BA). Accordingly, the support plate (PL) includes a first region (PLa) and a third region (PLc) having the same thickness, and the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0131] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to another embodiment. Descriptions of components identical to those described above will be omitted.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 17, a support plate (PL) according to one embodiment may have a structure in which one side is folded. The support plate (PL) may have a hemming structure to overlap with the bending area (BA). The support plate (PL) may include a first region (PLa) overlapping with the display layer (DL) and a third region (PLc) located on the back surface of the first region (PLa) and implementing the hemming structure. The first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc) may be connected by a second region (PLb). A separation space may be formed between the first region (PLa) and the third region (PLc). The impact resistance near the bending area (BA) may be improved by the support plate (PL) including the hemming structure.

[0133] According to one embodiment, a buffer member (CS) may be positioned at the bottom of a support plate (PL) having a hemming structure. The buffer member (CS) may be positioned between the lower surface of the support plate (PL) and the driving unit (50). Although the present specification illustrates an embodiment in which a separate adhesive layer is not positioned between the support plate (PL) and the substrate (SUB), and between the support plate (PL) and the buffer member (CS), an adhesive layer may be positioned between them.

[0134] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A substrate including a display area and a non-display area; A display layer positioned on the above substrate and overlapping the display area, and Including a support plate arranged on the lower part of the above substrate, The above support plate, A first region located on the back surface of the above display layer, a second region connected to the first region and including a grid pattern, and A third region connected to the second region and positioned on the back surface of the first region, A display device in which the second region is bent and overlaps with a bending region among the non-display regions of the substrate.

2. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the bending region of the above substrate and the second region are not coupled to each other.

3. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the bending region of the above substrate and the second region are spaced apart from each other.

4. In paragraph 1, A display device further comprising an adhesive layer positioned between the first region and the substrate, and between the third region and the substrate.

5. In paragraph 1, A display device further comprising a buffer member positioned between the first region and the third region.

6. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the thicknesses of the first region, the second region, and the third region are the same.

7. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the thickness of the second region is smaller than the thickness of the first region.

8. In paragraph 7, A display device wherein the thickness of the third region is smaller than the thickness of the first region.

9. In paragraph 7, A display device in which the second and third regions have the same thickness.

10. In paragraph 7, A display device in which, when the support plate is unfolded, the upper surface of the second region is positioned on the same plane as the upper surfaces of the first region and the third region.

11. In paragraph 7, A display device in which, when the support plate is unfolded, the lower surface of the second region is positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region and the third region.

12. In paragraph 7, A display device further comprising an auxiliary buffer member positioned between the substrate and the second region.

13. A substrate including a display area and a non-display area; A display layer positioned on the above substrate and overlapping the display area, and Including a support plate arranged on the lower part of the above substrate, The above support plate, A first region located on the back surface of the above display layer, a second region connected to the first region and including a grid pattern, and A third region connected to the second region and positioned on the back surface of the first region, A display device in which the first region and the substrate, and the third region and the substrate are joined by an adhesive layer, and a space is included between the second region and the substrate.

14. In paragraph 13, A display device further comprising a buffer member positioned between the first region and the third region.

15. In paragraph 13, A display device wherein the thicknesses of the first region, the second region, and the third region are the same.

16. In paragraph 13, A display device wherein the thickness of the second region is smaller than the thickness of the first region.

17. In Article 16, A display device wherein the thickness of the third region is smaller than the thickness of the first region.

18. In Article 16, A display device in which the second and third regions have the same thickness.

19. In Article 16, With the above support plate unfolded, A display device in which the upper surface of the second region is positioned on the same plane as the upper surfaces of the first region and the third region.

20. In Article 16, With the above support plate unfolded, A display device in which the lower surface of the second region is positioned on the same plane as the lower surfaces of the first region and the third region.

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