Electronic device

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a display module; and a digitizer including a folding part and a first non-folding part and a second non-folding part spaced apart from each other in a second direction, and including a base part and sensing coils disposed on the base part. The folding part includes: a center part which includes first holes, and which overlap the active area; and an outer peripheral part including second holes and third holes having different shapes, the second holes and third holes each including a first portion and a second portion, and being alternately arranged along the second direction. On a plane, the first portion of each of the second holes has a convex shape in a direction away from the center part. On a plane, the first portion of each of the third holes has a convex shape in a direction toward the center portion.

Description

electronic devices

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device including a digitizer, and more particularly, to an electronic device including a digitizer having improved sensing performance of a folding portion.

[0002] In the information society, electronic devices are increasingly important as visual information transmission media. Electronic devices are activated by electrical signals. They include a display layer that displays images and a digitizer that detects external input, such as a stylus pen.

[0003] A digitizer in an electronic device may include various sensing coils that are activated by electrical signals. The regions where the sensing coils are activated respond to signals applied from outside.

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an electronic device including a digitizer with improved sensing performance in a folding portion.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a display module including an active area for displaying an image and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area; and a folding part disposed below the display module and folded based on a folding axis extending in a first direction, a first non-folding part and a second non-folding part spaced apart in a second direction intersecting the first direction with the folding part therebetween, and a digitizer including a base part and sensing coils disposed in the base part, wherein the folding part includes a central part that includes first holes and overlaps the active area; and an outer part that includes second holes and third holes having different shapes and that are alternately arranged along the second direction, each of the second holes including a first portion and a second portion, and an outer part extending from the central part along the first direction, wherein in a plan view, the first portion of each of the second holes has a convex shape in a direction away from the central part, and in a plan view, the first portion of each of the third holes has a convex shape in a direction approaching the central part.

[0006] The second portion of each of the second holes may be characterized by covering a portion of the first hole adjacent to the boundary between the central portion and the outer portion.

[0007] The second portion of each of the third holes may be characterized in that it is arranged at the edge of the outer portion to form an open opening.

[0008] In the second direction, the width between the side surfaces of the outer portion defining the second portion may be characterized as being constant.

[0009] The first holes may be characterized by including first group holes each extending along a first direction and arranged along the second direction, and second group holes alternately arranged with the first group holes and shifted along the first direction with the first group holes, and each extending along the first direction and arranged along the second direction.

[0010] The sensing coils may include non-folding coils arranged in the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion, central lines arranged in the central portion, and outer lines arranged in the outer portion, and each of the outer lines may be alternately arranged to include a linear first line, a second line having a predetermined curvature, a linear third line, and a fourth line having a predetermined curvature, the first line being arranged between the first portion of one of the second holes and the first portion of one of the third holes, the second line being arranged adjacent to a convex portion of the first portion of the third hole, the third line being arranged between the first portion of one of the third holes and the first portion of another of the second holes, and the fourth line being arranged adjacent to a convex portion of the first portion of the second hole.

[0011] The first lines arranged between the first part of the second hole and the first part of the third hole may be spaced apart in a direction in which the width of the outer part where the first lines among the outer lines are arranged is 0.2 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0012] The above outer lines may include first to third outer lines that are spaced apart from each other and arranged sequentially, and the center distance from the center of the radius of curvature of the part of the first part of the second hole having the maximum curvature to the second outer line may be 0.3 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

[0013] In the direction in which the first line is extended, the outer part of the linear portion in which the first line is arranged may have an extension distance, and the ratio of the extension distance to the center distance may be 1 or more.

[0014] It may be characterized in that the ratio of the width to the center distance is 0.5 or less.

[0015] The base portion may be characterized by including a base layer including an upper surface facing the display module and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; a first upper base layer disposed on the upper surface of the base layer; a second upper base layer disposed on the upper surface of the first upper base layer; a first lower base layer disposed on the lower surface of the base layer; and a second lower base layer disposed on the lower surface of the first lower base layer.

[0016] The above outline lines may be characterized in that they are arranged on at least three layers of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, and the first upper base layer.

[0017] The outer lines arranged in any one of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, and the first upper base layer may include first to third lines that are spaced apart from each other and arranged sequentially, and at least nine outer lines are arranged in the outer portion.

[0018] Each of the above sensing coils may include one of copper and a copper alloy, and each of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, the first upper base layer, and the upper second base layer may include a matrix including a filler and a reinforced fiber composite disposed inside the matrix and including one of reinforcing fibers and carbon fibers.

[0019] The matrix comprises at least one of epoxy, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polybutylene, and vinyl ester.

[0020] The above filler may be characterized by including at least one of silica, barium sulfate, sintered talc, barium titanate, titanium oxide, clay, alumina, mica, boehmite, zinc borate, and zinc tinate.

[0021] Each of the above non-folding coils may be characterized by forming an open loop wound at least twice.

[0022] Among the above non-folding coils, the portions that are rotated twice and intersect each other may be characterized in that they are connected through a bridge pattern and a contact hole arranged on different layers among the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, the first upper base layer, and the upper second base layer.

[0023] It may be characterized in that two center lines are arranged between the adjacent first holes on the plane.

[0024] The above display module may be characterized by including a display panel that provides the image and an input sensor that is directly disposed on the display panel and detects an external input in a capacitive manner.

[0025] The above digitizer may be characterized by detecting external input using an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) method.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sensing sensitivity can be maintained uniformly between the outer and central portions of a folding portion, and cracks in the outer lines arranged on the outer portion of the folding portion can be prevented. Accordingly, an electronic device including a digitizer with improved sensing sensitivity can be provided.

[0027] FIGS. 1A to 1C are perspective views of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2b is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3a is a plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3b is a plan view that enlarges the AA' area of ​​Figure 3a.

[0032] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of a bent display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6b is a plan view of a sensing area of ​​a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 7a is a plan view of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7b is an enlarged plan view of QQ' of Figure 7a.

[0039] FIG. 8A is a plan view of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8b is an enlarged plan view of BB' of Figure 8a.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a portion of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 10 is a plan view that enlarges an area of ​​Figure 9.

[0043] FIGS. 11A to 11D are plan views of a portion of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 12a is a cross-sectional view of a base layer included in a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 12b is a plan view of a base layer included in a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] In this specification, when it is said that a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another component, it means that it can be directly disposed / connected / coupled to the other component, or a third component may be disposed between them.

[0047] Identical drawing numbers indicate identical components. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the purpose of effectively illustrating the technical content. "And / or" encompasses any combination of one or more of the associated components.

[0048] While terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component may be referred to as a "second component," and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a "first component." Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] Additionally, terms such as "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" are used to describe the relationships between components depicted in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

[0050] It should be understood that terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an overly idealistic or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0053] Figures 1a to 1c are perspective views of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1a illustrates an unfolded state of the electronic device, and Figures 1b and 1c illustrate a folded state of the electronic device.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1C, an electronic device (ED) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a display surface (DS) defined by a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1). The electronic device (ED) may provide an image (IM) to a user through the display surface (DS).

[0055] A display surface (DS) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may display an image (IM), and the non-display area (NDA) may not display the image (IM). The non-display area (NDA) may surround at least a portion of the display area (DA). However, the shape of the display area (DA) and the shape of the non-display area (NDA) may be modified.

[0056] A display surface (DS) of an electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment may include a sensing area (TA). The sensing area (TA) may be an area defined within a display area (DA). The sensing area (TA) has a higher light transmittance than other areas of the display area (DA).

[0057] An optical signal, such as visible light or infrared light, can travel through the sensing area (TA). The electronic device (ED) can capture an external image through visible light passing through the sensing area (TA) or determine the accessibility of an external object through infrared light. While FIG. 1A illustrates one sensing area (TA) as an example, the present invention is not limited thereto, and multiple sensing areas (TA) may be provided.

[0058] Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) is defined as the third direction (DR3). The third direction (DR3) serves as a reference for distinguishing the front and back surfaces of each member. In this specification, "on the plane" may be defined as a state viewed from the third direction (DR3).

[0059] An electronic device (ED) may include a folding region (FA) and a plurality of non-folding regions (NFA1, NFA2). The non-folding regions (NFA1, NFA2) may include a first non-folding region (NFA1) and a second non-folding region (NFA2). The first non-folding region (NFA1) and the second non-folding region (NFA2) may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (DR2) with the folding region (FA) interposed therebetween.

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the folding area (FA) can be folded without damaging the electronic device (ED) with respect to the folding axis (FX) parallel to the first direction (DR1). When the electronic device (ED) is folded with respect to the folding axis (FX), the folding area (FA) has a predetermined curvature and a radius of curvature (VV). A first separation distance (GP1) between the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2) can be similar to or equal to twice the radius of curvature (VV). According to one embodiment, the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2) face each other, and the electronic device (ED) can be folded in an in-folding manner so that the display surface (DS) is not exposed to the outside.

[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 1C, according to one embodiment, when the electronic device (ED) is folded with respect to the folding axis (FX), the second separation distance (GP2) between the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2) may be less than twice the radius of curvature (VV). Accordingly, the separation distance between the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2) in the folded state may be reduced. Accordingly, an electronic device (ED) having a slim state when folded can be provided.

[0062] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (ED) may be out-folded so that the display surface (DS) is exposed to the outside. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (ED) may be configured such that an in-folding or out-folding operation is mutually repeated from an unfolding operation, but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (ED) may be configured to select any one of an unfolding operation, an in-folding operation, and an out-folding operation.

[0063] FIG. 2a is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the electronic device (ED) may include a display device (DD), an electronic module (EM), an electro-optical module (ELM), a power module (PSM), and a housing (HM). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (ED) may further include a mechanical structure (e.g., a hinge) coupled to the housing (HM) to control a folding operation of the display device (DD).

[0065] The display device (DD) generates images and detects external input. The display device (DD) includes a window (WM) and a display module (DM). The window (WM) provides the display surface (DS) of the electronic device (ED). A detailed description of the window (WM) will be provided below.

[0066] A display module (DM) may include a display panel (DP). Although only the display panel (DP) among the laminated structures of the display module (DM) is illustrated in FIG. 2A, the display module (DM) may actually further include a plurality of components arranged on the upper side of the display panel (DP). A detailed description of the laminated structure of the display module (DM) will be provided below.

[0067] The type of display panel (DP) is not particularly limited. For example, the display panel (DP) may be an emissive display panel such as an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot emissive display panel.

[0068] The display panel (DP) includes a display area (DP-DA) and a non-display area (DP-NDA) corresponding to the display area (DA, see FIG. 1A) and the non-display area (NDA, see FIG. 1A) of the electronic device (ED). In this specification, "areas / portions correspond to areas / portions" means overlapping and is not limited to the same area.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, a driving chip (DIC) may be placed on a non-display area (DP-NDA) of a display panel (DP). A flexible circuit board (FCB) may be bonded to the non-display area (DP-NDA) of the display panel (DP). The flexible circuit board (FCB) may be connected to a main circuit board. The main circuit board may be an electronic component constituting an electronic module (EM).

[0070] A driver chip (DIC) may include driving elements, such as a data driving circuit, for driving pixels of a display panel (DP). While FIG. 2A illustrates a structure in which the driver chip (DIC) is mounted on the display panel (DP), the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the driver chip (DIC) may be mounted on a flexible printed circuit board (FCB).

[0071] According to one embodiment, a display module (DM) may have a portion of a non-display area (DP-NDA) that may be bent. For example, a region of the non-display area (DP-NDA) where a driving chip (DIC) and a flexible printed circuit board (FCB) are arranged and whose width in the first direction (DR1) is narrowed may be bent based on a bending axis extending along the first direction (DR1). In this case, the bent non-display area (DP-NDA) of the display module (DM) may be accommodated in a bent state in the housing (HM). This will be described with reference to FIG. 3A.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the display device (DD) may further include an input sensor (IS) and a digitizer (DTM) in addition to the display panel (DP). The input sensor (IS) detects a user's input. The input sensor (IS), which detects an external input using a capacitive method, may be disposed on the display panel (DP). The digitizer (DTM) detects an input using a stylus pen. The digitizer (DTM) according to the present invention may detect an external input using an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) method. The digitizer (DTM) may be disposed below the display panel (DP).

[0073] An electronic module (EM) may include a control module (10), a wireless communication module (20), an image input module (30), an audio input module (40), an audio output module (50), a memory (60), and an external interface module (70). The electronic module (EM) may include a main circuit board, and the modules may be mounted on the main circuit board or electrically connected to the main circuit board via a flexible circuit board. Each of the input sensor (IS) and the digitizer (DTM) may be connected to the main circuit board via a connector or the like. The electronic module (EM) is electrically connected to a power module (PSM).

[0074] An electronic module (EM) may be placed in each of the first housing (HM1) and the second housing (HM2), and a power module (PSM) may be placed in each of the first housing (HM1) and the second housing (HM2). Although not shown, the electronic module (EM) placed in the first housing (HM1) and the electronic module (EM) placed in the second housing (HM2) may be electrically connected via a flexible circuit board.

[0075] The control module (10) controls the overall operation of the electronic device (ED). For example, the control module (10) activates or deactivates the display device (DD) in response to user input. The control module (10) can control the image input module (30), the audio input module (40), the audio output module (50), etc. in response to user input. The control module (10) may include at least one microprocessor.

[0076] The wireless communication module (20) can transmit / receive wireless signals with other terminals using a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi line. The wireless communication module (20) can transmit / receive voice signals using a general communication line. The wireless communication module (20) can include multiple antenna modules.

[0077] The image input module (30) processes the image signal and converts it into image data that can be displayed on the display device (DD). The audio input module (40) receives an external audio signal via a microphone in recording mode, voice recognition mode, etc. and converts it into electrical voice data. The audio output module (50) converts audio data received from the wireless communication module (20) or audio data stored in the memory (60) and outputs it to the outside.

[0078] The external interface module (70) serves as an interface that connects to an external charger, wired / wireless data port, card socket (e.g., memory card, SIM / UIM card), etc.

[0079] A power module (PSM) supplies the power required for the overall operation of an electronic device (ED). The PSM may include a conventional battery device.

[0080] An electro-optical module (ELM) may be an electronic component that outputs or receives an optical signal. The ELM may include a camera module and / or a proximity sensor. The camera module captures an external image through a sensing area (DP-TA). The ELM may be positioned below the display device (DD) and may overlap with the sensing area (DP-TA).

[0081] The housing (HM) is coupled to the window (WM) to accommodate the other modules described above. The housing (HM) is illustrated as including first and second housings (HM1, HM2) that are separated from each other, but is not limited thereto. The electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment may further include a hinge structure for connecting the first and second housings (HM1, HM2).

[0082] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3B is an enlarged plan view of area AA' of FIG. 3A. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 3A, a display panel (DP) may include a display area (DP-DA) and a non-display area (DP-NDA) disposed around the display area (DP-DA). The display area (DP-DA) and the non-display area (DP-NDA) are distinguished by the presence of pixels (PX). Pixels (PX) are disposed in the display area (DP-DA). A scan driver (SDV), a data driver, and an emission driver (EDV) may be disposed in the non-display area (DP-NDA). The data driver may be a part of a circuit included in a driver chip (DIC) illustrated in FIG. 3A.

[0084] The display panel (DP) includes a first non-bending area (AA1), a second non-bending area (AA2), and a bending area (BA) that are distinguished within a second direction (DR2). The second non-bending area (AA2) and the bending area (BA) may be part of a non-display area (DP-NDA). The bending area (BA) is positioned between the first non-bending area (AA1) and the second non-bending area (AA2).

[0085] The first non-bending area (AA1) corresponds to the display surface (DS) of FIG. 1A. The first non-bending area (AA1) may include a first non-folding area (NFA1), a second non-folding area (NFA2), and a folding area (FA). The first non-folding area (NFA1), the second non-folding area (NFA2), and the folding area (FA) correspond to the first non-folding area (NFA1), the second non-folding area (NFA2), and the folding area (FA) of FIGS. 1A to 1C, respectively.

[0086] In the first direction (DR1), the widths of the bending area (BA) and the second non-bending area (AA2) may be smaller than the width of the first non-bending area (AA1). The bending area (BA), which is relatively short in the first direction (DR1), can be easily bent based on the bending axis extending in the first direction (DR1).

[0087]

[0088] *The display panel (DP) may include a plurality of pixels (PX), a plurality of scan lines (SL1 to SLm), a plurality of data lines (DL1 to DLn), a plurality of light-emitting lines (EL1 to ELm), first and second control lines (CSL1, CSL2), a power line (PSL), and a plurality of display pads (D-PD). Here, m and n are natural numbers. The pixels (PX) may be connected to the scan lines (SL1 to SLm), the data lines (DL1 to DLn), and the light-emitting lines (EL1 to ELm). For example, although FIG. 3A illustrates four pixels (PX), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the pixels (PX) may be arranged in a plurality of rows and columns on the display panel (DP), and the number of pixels (PX) (or rows / columns of pixels (PX)) may vary depending on the design and size of the display panel (DP).

[0089] The scan lines (SL1 to SLm) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be connected to a scan driver (SDV). The data lines (DL1 to DLn) may extend in a second direction (DR2) and be connected to a driver chip (DIC) via a bending area (BA). The light-emitting lines (EL1 to ELm) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be connected to a light-emitting driver (EDV).

[0090] The power line (PSL) may include a portion extending in a second direction (DR2) and a portion extending in a first direction (DR1). According to one embodiment, the portion extending in the first direction (DR1) and the portion extending in the second direction (DR2) may be disposed on different layers. The portion of the power line (PSL) extending in the second direction (DR2) may extend to a second non-bending area (AA2) via a bending area (BA). The power line (PSL) may provide a first voltage to the pixels (PX).

[0091] The first control line (CSL1) may be connected to the scanning driver (SDV) and may extend toward the lower end of the second non-bending region (AA2) via the bending region (BA). The second control line (CSL2) may be connected to the emission driver (EDV) and may extend toward the lower end of the second non-bending region (AA2) via the bending region (BA).

[0092] On a plane, display pads (D-PD) can be arranged adjacent to the bottom of the second non-bending area (AA2). A driving chip (DIC), a power line (PSL), a first control line (CSL1), and a second control line (CSL2) can be connected to the display pads (D-PD). Board pads (F-PD) included in a flexible printed circuit board (FCB) can be electrically connected to corresponding display pads (D-PD) through an anisotropic conductive adhesive layer.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 3b, a sensing area (DP-TA) of an electronic device (ED, see FIG. 1a) according to one embodiment may be an area having a higher light transmittance within a reference area (or the same area) than a display area (DP-DA). The sensing area (DP-TA) has a smaller occupancy ratio of a light-shielding structure within the reference area than the display area (DP-DA). The light-shielding structure may include a conductive pattern of a circuit layer, an electrode of a light-emitting element, a light-shielding pattern, etc., which will be described later.

[0094] The sensing area (DP-TA) has a lower resolution within the reference area than the display area (DP-DA). The sensing area (DP-TA) has fewer pixels within the reference area (or the same area) than the display area (DP-DA).

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 3b, a first pixel (PX1) may be arranged in a display area (DP-DA), and a second pixel (PX2) may be arranged in a sensing area (DP-TA). The first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) may have different light-emitting areas when comparing the areas of pixels that provide the same color. The first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) may have different arrangements.

[0096] In Fig. 3b, light-emitting areas (LA) of a first pixel (PX1) and a second pixel (PX2) are illustrated to represent the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2). Each of the light-emitting areas (LA) can be defined as an area where the anode of the light-emitting element is exposed from the pixel definition film. A non-light-emitting area (NLA) is arranged between the light-emitting areas (LA) within the display area (DP-DA).

[0097] The first pixel (PX1) may include a first color pixel (PX1-R), a second color pixel (PX1-G), and a third color pixel (PX1-B), and the second pixel (PX2) may include a first color pixel (PX2-R), a second color pixel (PX2-G), and a third color pixel (PX2-B). The first color pixel (PX1-R) and the first color pixel (PX1-R) may provide red light, the second color pixel (PX1-G) and the second color pixel (PX2-G) may provide green light, and the third color pixel (PX1-B) and the third color pixel (PX2-B) may provide blue light.

[0098] The sensing area (DP-TA) may include a pixel area (PA), a line area (BL), and a transmission area (BT). The second pixel (PX2) is arranged within the pixel area (PA). Although two first color pixels (PX2-R), four second color pixels (PX2-G), and two third color pixels (PX2-B) are illustrated as being arranged within one pixel area (PA), the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0099] A conductive pattern, a signal line, or a light-shielding pattern related to the second pixel (PX2) is arranged in the pixel area (PA) and the line area (BL). The light-shielding pattern may be a metal pattern and may substantially overlap the pixel area (PA) and the line area (BL). The pixel area (PA) and the line area (BL) may be non-transparent areas.

[0100] The transmissive region (BT) is a region through which an optical signal or external light actually passes. Since the second pixel (PX2) is not arranged in the transmissive region (BT), a conductive pattern, a signal line, or a light-shielding pattern is arranged. Therefore, the transmissive region (BT) increases the light transmittance of the sensing region (DP-TA). According to one embodiment, the electro-optical module (ELM) described in FIG. 2A can improve the optical signal reception efficiency by overlapping with the sensing region (DP-TA) having high light transmittance.

[0101] However, it is not limited thereto, and the sensing area (DP-TA) can be defined as a hole penetrating from the front to the back of the display module (DM). In this case, the hole can overlap with an electro-optical module (ELM, see Fig. 2b).

[0102] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 4, the display module (DM) may include a display panel (DP), an input sensor (IS), and an anti-reflection layer (ARL). The display panel (DP) may include a base layer (110), a circuit layer (120), a light-emitting element layer (130), and an encapsulation layer (140).

[0104] The base layer (110) can provide a base surface on which the circuit layer (120) is arranged. The base layer (110) can be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. The base layer (110) can be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a polymer substrate, etc. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the base layer (110) can be an inorganic layer, an organic layer, or a composite material layer.

[0105] The base layer (110) may have a multilayer structure. For example, the base layer (110) may include a first synthetic resin layer, a multilayer or single-layer inorganic layer, and a second synthetic resin layer disposed on the multilayer or single-layer inorganic layer. Each of the first and second synthetic resin layers may include a polyimide-based resin, and is not particularly limited.

[0106] The circuit layer (120) may be placed on the base layer (110). The circuit layer (120) may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line.

[0107] The light-emitting element layer (130) may be disposed on the circuit layer (120). The light-emitting element layer (130) may include a light-emitting element. For example, the light-emitting element may include an organic light-emitting material, an inorganic light-emitting material, an organic-inorganic light-emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro LED, or a nano LED.

[0108] The encapsulating layer (140) may be disposed on the light-emitting element layer (130). The encapsulating layer (140) may protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from foreign substances such as moisture, oxygen, and dust particles. The encapsulating layer (140) may include at least one inorganic layer. The encapsulating layer (140) may include a laminated structure of an inorganic layer / organic layer / inorganic layer.

[0109] The input sensor (IS) may be directly disposed on the display panel (DP). The display panel (DP) and the input sensor (IS) may be formed through a sequential process. Here, "directly disposed" may mean that no third component is disposed between the input sensor (IS) and the display panel (DP). In other words, a separate adhesive layer may not be disposed between the input sensor (IS) and the display panel (DP).

[0110] An anti-reflection layer (ARL) may be directly disposed on an input sensor (IS). The anti-reflection layer (ARL) may reduce the reflectance of external light incident from the outside of a display device (DD, see FIG. 1). The anti-reflection layer (ARL) may include color filters. The color filters may have a predetermined arrangement. For example, the color filters may be arranged in consideration of the emission colors of pixels included in the display panel (DP). In addition, the anti-reflection layer (ARL) may further include a black matrix adjacent to the color filters.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the positions of the input sensor (IS) and the anti-reflection layer (ARL) may be interchanged. In one embodiment of the present invention, the anti-reflection layer (ARL) may be replaced with a polarizing film. The polarizing film may be bonded to the input sensor (IS) via an adhesive layer.

[0112] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of a bent display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the display device (DD) includes a window (WM), an upper member (UM), a display module (DM), and a lower member (LM). The upper member (UM) refers to a configuration positioned between the window (WM) and the display module (DM), and the lower member (LM) refers to a configuration positioned below the display module (DM).

[0114] A window (WM) may include a thin film glass substrate (UTG), a window protection layer (PF) disposed on the thin film glass substrate (UTG), and a bezel pattern (BP) disposed on a lower surface of the window protection layer (PF). In the present embodiment, the window protection layer (PF) may include a synthetic resin film.

[0115] The bezel pattern (BP) may be disposed on one surface of the thin film glass substrate (UTG) or one surface of the window protection layer (PF). FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a bezel pattern (BP) disposed on the lower surface of the window protection layer (PF). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the bezel pattern (BP) may also be disposed on the upper surface of the window protection layer (PF). The bezel pattern (BP) may be formed as a colored light-blocking film, for example, by a coating method. The bezel pattern (BP) may include a base material and a dye or pigment mixed into the base material. The non-display area (NDA) illustrated in FIG. 1A may be defined by the shape of the bezel pattern (BP).

[0116] The thickness of the thin film glass substrate (UTG) can range from 15 μm to 45 μm. The thin film glass substrate (UTG) can be chemically strengthened glass. The thin film glass substrate (UTG) can minimize the occurrence of wrinkles even when repeated folding and unfolding.

[0117] The thickness of the window protection layer (PF) may be 50 μm to 80 μm. The synthetic resin film of the window protection layer (PF) may include polyimide, polycarbonate, polyamide, triacetylcellulose, polymethylmethacrylate, or polyethylene terephthalate. Although not separately illustrated, at least one of a hard coating layer, an anti-fingerprint layer, and an anti-reflection layer may be disposed on the upper surface of the window protection layer (PF).

[0118] The window protection layer (PF) and the thin film glass substrate (UTG) can be bonded by a first adhesive layer (AL1). The first adhesive layer (AL1) can be a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA) or an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The adhesive layers described below can also include the same material as the first adhesive layer (AL1).

[0119] The first adhesive layer (AL1) can be separated from the thin film glass substrate (UTG). That is, the adhesive strength between the first adhesive layer (AL1) and the thin film glass substrate (UTG) may be lower than the adhesive strength between the first adhesive layer (AL1) and the window protection layer (PF). Since the window protection layer (PF) is positioned on top of the thin film glass substrate (UTG), scratches may occur relatively easily. After the first adhesive layer (AL1) and the window protection layer (PF) are separated, a new window protection layer (PF) can be attached to the thin film glass substrate (UTG).

[0120] On a plane, the edge of the thin film glass substrate (UTG) may not overlap the bezel pattern (BP). By satisfying the above-described conditions, the edge of the thin film glass substrate (UTG) is exposed from the bezel pattern (BP), and microscopic cracks occurring at the edge of the thin film glass substrate (UTG) can be inspected using an inspection device.

[0121] The upper member (UM) may include a top film (DL). The top film (DL) may include a synthetic resin film. The synthetic resin film may include polyimide, polycarbonate, polyamide, triacetylcellulose, polymethylmethacrylate, or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0122] The upper film (DL) can absorb external impact applied to the front surface of the display device (DD). The display module (DM) described in Fig. 4 may include an anti-reflection layer (ARL) replacing the polarizing film, which may reduce the front impact strength of the display device (DD). The upper film (DL) can compensate for the reduced impact strength by applying the anti-reflection layer (ARL). In one embodiment of the present invention, the upper film (DL) may be omitted. The thin film glass substrate (UTG) and the upper film (DL) may be bonded by a second adhesive layer (AL2). The upper film (DL) and the display module (DM) may be bonded by a third adhesive layer (AL3).

[0123] The lower member (LM) may include a panel protection layer (PPL), a barrier layer (BRL), a digitizer (DTM), a metal layer (ML), a cushion layer (CS), a metal plate (MP), a heat dissipation layer (HRP), a magnetic shielding sheet (MSM), and a step compensation member (AS). Components of the lower member (LM) excluding the digitizer (DTM) may be defined as functional layers.

[0124] A panel protection layer (PPL) may be disposed on the lower side of the display module (DM). The panel protection layer (PPL) may protect the lower portion of the display module (DM). The panel protection layer (PPL) may include a flexible synthetic resin film. For example, the panel protection layer (PPL) may include polyethylene terephthalate.

[0125] In one embodiment, the panel protection layer (PPL) may be non-disposed in the bending area (BA). The panel protection layer (PPL) may include a first panel protection layer (PPL-1) protecting a first non-bending area (AA1) of the display panel (DP, see FIG. 3a) and a second panel protection layer (PPL-2) protecting a second non-bending area (AA2).

[0126] A fourth adhesive layer (AL4) bonds the panel protection layer (PPL) and the display module (DM). The fourth adhesive layer (AL4) may include 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).

[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 5b, when the bending area (BA) is bent, the second panel protection layer (PPL-2) may be disposed on the lower side of the first non-bending area (AA1) and the first panel protection layer (PPL-1) together with the second non-bending area (AA2). Since the panel protection layer (PPL) is not disposed on the bending area (BA), the bending area (BA) can be bent more easily. The second panel protection layer (PPL-2) may be attached to the metal plate (MP) via the tenth adhesive layer (AL10). The tenth adhesive layer (AL10) may be omitted. Although not illustrated separately, an additional configuration, such as an insulating tape, may be further disposed between the second panel protection layer (PPL-2) and the metal plate (MP).

[0128] As illustrated in FIG. 5b, the bending area (BA) has a predetermined curvature and curvature radius. The curvature radius may be about 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. A bending protection layer (BPL) is disposed at least in the bending area (BA). The bending protection layer (BPL) may overlap the bending area (BA), the first non-bending area (AA1), and the second non-bending area (AA2). The bending protection layer (BPL) may be disposed over the entire area of ​​the bending area (BA), and may be disposed over a portion of the first non-bending area (AA1) and a portion of the second non-bending area (AA2).

[0129] The bending protection layer (BPL) can be bent together with the bending area (BA). The BPL protects the bending area (BA) from external impact and controls the neutral plane of the bending area (BA). The BPL controls the stress in the bending area (BA) so that the neutral plane approaches the signal lines arranged in the bending area (BA).

[0130] Referring again to FIG. 5a, the barrier layer (BRL) may be positioned below the panel protection layer (PPL). The barrier layer (BRL) and the panel protection layer (PPL) may be bonded via a fifth adhesive layer (AL5).

[0131] The barrier layer (BRL) can increase resistance to compressive force due to external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer (BRL) can play a role in preventing deformation of the display panel (DP). The barrier layer (BRL) may include a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. Additionally, the barrier layer (BRL) may be a colored film with low light transmittance. The barrier layer (BRL) can absorb light incident from the outside.

[0132] For example, the barrier layer (BRL) may be a black synthetic resin film. When viewing the display device (DD) from above the window protection layer (PF), components positioned below the barrier layer (BRL) may not be visible to the user.

[0133] The sixth adhesive layer (AL6) bonds the barrier layer (BRL) and the digitizer (DTM). The sixth adhesive layer (AL6) may include a first portion (AL6-1) and a second portion (AL6-2) that are spaced apart from each other. The distance (D6, or gap) between the first portion (AL6-1) and the second portion (AL6-2) corresponds to the width of the folding area (FA0) and is greater than the gap (GP) described below. The distance (D6) between the first portion (AL6-1) and the second portion (AL6-2) may be 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0134] In this embodiment, the first part (AL6-1) and the second part (AL6-2) are defined as different parts of one adhesive layer, but are not limited thereto. When the first part (AL6-1) is defined as one adhesive layer (e.g., the first adhesive layer or the second adhesive layer), the second part (AL6-2) may be defined as another adhesive layer (e.g., the second adhesive layer or the third adhesive layer). The above-described definitions may be applied to adhesive layers including two parts among the adhesive layers described below as well as the sixth adhesive layer (AL6).

[0135] The digitizer (DTM) according to the present invention can detect input by an electromagnetic pen. In this case, the digitizer (DTM) can detect input by the electromagnetic pen by using a method of electromagnetic induction resonance (EMR).

[0136] The digitizer (DTM) may include a first non-folding portion (DTM-1) overlapping a first non-folding area (NFA10), a folding portion (DTM-F) overlapping a folding area (FA0), and a second non-folding portion (DTM-2) overlapping a second non-folding area (NFA20).

[0137] The folding part (DTM-F) according to the present invention may include holes (HL) penetrating from the upper surface to the rear surface of the folding part (DTM-F) to facilitate the folding operation of the electronic device (ED).

[0138] Since the configurations of the sensing coils arranged at the outermost portions of the folding portion (DTM-F) of the digitizer (DTM) and the sensing coils arranged between the outermost portions of the folding portion (DTM-F) are different, the sensing performance of the folding portion (DTM-F) may differ. Accordingly, in a digitizer (DTM) including holes (HL) in the folding portion (DTM-F), it is necessary to supplement the sensing performance of the outermost portions of the folding portion (DTM-F).

[0139] A metal layer (ML) may be disposed under the digitizer (DTM). The metal layer (ML) may include a first metal layer (ML1) overlapping a first non-folding portion (DTM-1) and a second metal layer (ML2) overlapping a second non-folding portion (DTM-2). Each of the first metal layer (ML1) and the second metal layer (ML2) may overlap a portion of the folding portion (DTM-F) and be spaced apart from each other within the folding portion (DTM-F).

[0140] The metal layer (ML) can dissipate heat generated when the digitizer (DTM) is operated to the outside. The metal layer (ML) transfers heat generated in the digitizer (DTM) to the lower side. The metal layer (ML) can have greater electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity than the metal plate (MP) described below. The metal layer (ML) can include copper or aluminum. The metal layer (ML) with relatively high electrical conductivity can block electromagnetic waves generated from an electronic module (EM, see FIG. 2a) disposed below from affecting the digitizer (DTM) as noise.

[0141] The seventh adhesive layer (AL7) can bond the digitizer (DTM) and the metal layer (ML). The seventh adhesive layer (AL7) can include a first portion (AL7-1) corresponding to the first metal layer (ML1) and a second portion (AL7-2) corresponding to the second metal layer (ML2).

[0142] A cushion layer (CS) may be disposed under the metal layer (ML). The cushion layer (CS) may protect the display module (DM) from impact transmitted from the bottom of the display module (DM). The cushion layer (CS) may include a first cushion layer (CS1) overlapping the first non-folding portion (DTM-1) and a second cushion layer (CS2) overlapping the second non-folding portion (DTM-2). Each of the first cushion layer (CS1) and the second cushion layer (CS2) may overlap a portion of the folding portion (DTM-F) and be spaced apart from each other within the folding portion (DTM-F).

[0143] The first cushion layer (CS1) and the second cushion layer (CS2) can prevent foreign substances from entering the holes (HL) when the display device (DD) is folded. In addition, when the display device (DD) is unfolded, even if the folding portion (DTM-F) is folded with a predetermined curvature, the shape of the digitizer (DTM) can be easily deformed because the first cushion layer (CS1) and the second cushion layer (CS2) are spaced apart from each other in the area overlapping the folding portion (DTM-F).

[0144] The cushion layer (CS) may include foam or sponge. The foam may include polyurethane foam or thermoplastic polyurethane foam. When the cushion layer (CS) includes foam, a barrier film may be added as a base layer, and a foaming agent may be foamed onto the barrier film to form the cushion layer (CS).

[0145] The eighth adhesive layer (AL8) can bond the metal layer (ML) and the cushion layer (CS). The eighth adhesive layer (AL8) can include a first portion (AL8-1) corresponding to the first cushion layer (CS1) and a second portion (AL8-2) corresponding to the second cushion layer (CS2).

[0146] A metal plate (MP) may be disposed under a cushion layer (CS). The metal plate (MP) may include a first metal plate (MP1) overlapping a first cushion layer (CS1) and a second metal plate (MP2) overlapping a second cushion layer (CS2). The metal plate (MP) may absorb an external impact applied from below. The metal plate (MP) may have greater strength and a greater thickness than the metal layer (ML). The metal plate (MP) may include a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0147] The ninth adhesive layer (AL9) bonds the cushion layer (CS) and the metal plate (MP). The ninth adhesive layer (AL9) may include a first portion (AL9-1) corresponding to the first metal plate (MP1) and a second portion (AL9-2) corresponding to the second metal plate (MP2).

[0148] A heat dissipation layer (HRP) may be disposed on the lower side of the metal plate (MP). The heat dissipation layer (HRP) may include a first heat dissipation layer (HRP1) overlapping a first metal plate (MP1) and a second heat dissipation layer (HRP2) overlapping a second metal plate (MP2).

[0149] The heat dissipation layer (HRP) dissipates heat generated from electronic components positioned on the lower side. The electronic components may be electronic modules (EMs) as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The heat dissipation layer (HRP) may have a structure in which adhesive layers and graphite layers are alternately laminated. The heat dissipation layer (HRP) may be attached to the metal plate (MP) through an additional adhesive layer positioned between the heat dissipation layer (HRP) and the metal plate (MP).

[0150] A magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) is placed on the lower side of the metal plate (MP). The magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) shields the magnetic field generated from the magnetic material (not shown) placed on the lower side. The magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) can prevent the magnetic field generated from the magnetic material from interfering with the digitizer (DTM).

[0151] A magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) includes a plurality of sections. At least some of the sections may have different thicknesses. The plurality of sections may be arranged to correspond to a step difference of a bracket (not shown) arranged on the lower side of a display device (DD). The magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) may have a structure in which a magnetic shielding layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated. A portion of the magnetic shielding sheet (MSM) may be directly attached to a metal plate (MP).

[0152] The step compensation member (AS) is bonded to the lower side of the seventh adhesive layer (AL7). The step compensation member (AS) may be a double-sided tape or an insulating film. The step compensation member (AS) is provided as a first step compensation member (AS-1) and a second step compensation member (AS-2), thereby compensating for steps formed with different widths between components included in the lower member (LM).

[0153] The functional layers arranged under the first non-folding portion (DTM-1) and the second non-folding portion (DTM-2) of the lower member (LM) are arranged with a predetermined gap (GP) spaced apart from the overlapping region with the folding portion (DTM-F). The gap (GP) may be 0.3 mm to 3 mm.

[0154] A through hole (LTH) may be formed in some of the lower member (LM). The through hole (LTH) is arranged to overlap the sensing area (DP-TA) of Fig. 2a. As illustrated in Fig. 5a, the through hole (LTH) may penetrate from the fifth adhesive layer (AL5) to the metal plate (MP). The through hole (LTH) is similar to the removal of a light-shielding structure from the path of an optical signal, and the through hole (LTH) may improve the optical signal reception efficiency of an electro-optical module (ELM).

[0155] An electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment may omit at least one of a metal layer (ML), a cushion layer (CS), a metal plate (MP), and a step compensation member (AS), and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0156] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6B is a plan view of a sensing area of ​​a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 6A, a digitizer (DTM) according to one embodiment may include a base portion (BM) including a plurality of base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1, BB2), first sensing coils (RF), second sensing coils (CF), and connecting lines (BR-U1, BR-U2, BR-B1, BR-B2).

[0158] In this specification, 'folding lines' may be used as a general term for coils arranged in the folding section (DTM-F) of the digitizer (DTM). The 'folding lines' may be defined as wires that connect the first sensing coils (RF) that are spaced apart from each other with the folding section (DFM-F) therebetween, or when a part of the second sensing coils (CF) is arranged in at least one of the first non-folding section (DTM-1) and the second non-folding section (DTM-2) and the remaining part must be arranged in the folding section (DTM-F) to form an open loop, the wires connected to the second sensing coils (CF) may be defined as 'folding lines'. The 'folding lines' may be substantially a part of the first sensing coils (RF) or a part of the second sensing coils (CF), but for the sake of clarity of the invention and convenience of description, they will be described as separate components.

[0159] Each of the first sensing coils (RF) and the second sensing coils (CF) may be insulated from each other and form an open loop. Each of the first sensing coils (RF) and the second sensing coils (CF) may be rotated at least twice to form an open loop.

[0160] A portion of each of the first sensing coils (RF) may overlap with each other on a plane, and the overlapping portions may be connected to each other via contact lines (NFB-U, NFB-B) through another layer. For example, a portion of the first sensing coils (RF) that intersect with each other may be connected to an upper contact line (NFB-U) arranged on the first upper base layer (BU1) to form a loop.

[0161] In addition, a portion of the second sensing coils (CF) that intersect with each other may be connected to a lower contact line (NFB-B) arranged on a second lower base layer (BB2) to form an open loop. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the contact lines (NFB-U, NFB-B) may be arranged on any one of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1, BB2) as long as the coils that intersect with each other form an open loop, and the present invention is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0162] In Fig. 6a, the contact lines (NFBU, NFB-B) are illustrated as floating for convenience of explanation, but each of the contact lines (NFBU, NFB-B) may be provided in multiple numbers and connected to the corresponding first sensing coils (RF) and second sensing coils (CF) through contact holes penetrating at least one of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1, BB2).

[0163] Each of the first sensing coils (RF) and the second sensing coils (CF) may include either copper or copper plating.

[0164] Although FIG. 6a illustrates that the first sensing coils (RF) are disposed on the first upper base layer (BU1) and the second sensing coils (CF) are disposed on the first lower base layer (BB1), the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first sensing coils (RF) and the second sensing coils (CF) may be disposed on at least one of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1), and are not limited to any one embodiment.

[0165] Each of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1, BB2) may include a matrix including a filler and woven fiber lines arranged inside the matrix. Fig. 12a is a cross-sectional view of a base layer included in a digitizer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 12b is a plan view of a base layer included in a digitizer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the base layer (BG) described in Figs. 12a and 12b may be applied to the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1, BB2) described in Figs. 6a and 6b.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 12a and 12b, the base layer (BG) according to the present invention may include a matrix (MT) including a filler and woven fiber lines (FL1, FL2) arranged inside the matrix (MT).

[0167] Fiber lines (FL1, FL2) may be alternately arranged along a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) to form a fabric shape on a plane. Each of the fiber lines (FL1, FL2) may be provided in the form of a bundle of multiple fibers (GL). The diameter of a single fiber (GL) included in a single fiber line may be 3 μm or more and 10 μm or less.

[0168] Each of the fiber lines (FL1, FL2) may include a reinforced fiber composite. The reinforced fiber composite may be either carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP). The fiber lines (FL1, FL2) may be arranged within the matrix (MT).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the matrix (MT) may include at least one of epoxy, polyester, polyamides, polycarbonates, polypropylene, polybutylene, and vinyl ester.

[0170] The matrix (MT) may include a filler. The filler may include at least one of silica, barium sulfate, sintered talc, barium titanate, titanium oxide, clay, alumina, mica, boehmite, zinc borate, and zinc tinate.

[0171] According to the present invention, the base layer (BG) included in the digitizer (DTM, see FIG. 6a) includes a fiber bundle of glass fiber reinforced plastic or carbon fiber reinforced plastic arranged inside the matrix (MT), thereby protecting the lower part of the display device (DD, see FIG. 5b) when folded.

[0172] Accordingly, the digitizer (DTM, see FIG. 6a) of the present invention can be configured to simultaneously function as a protective member and detect a pen. Accordingly, a separate metal plate protecting the display device (DD) can be omitted, thereby reducing costs and providing a slim electronic device (ED).

[0173] Referring to FIG. 6B, a sensing area (DSA) of a digitizer (DTM) according to one embodiment may include first sensing coils (RF) and second sensing coils (CF). The first sensing coils (RF) may be referred to as drive coils, and the second sensing coils (CF) may be referred to as sense coils, but are not limited thereto, and vice versa. The sensing area (DSA) may correspond to the active area (AA) of FIG. 7A, or may correspond to a portion of the active area (AA) that detects an input of a stylus pen.

[0174] Each of the first sensing coils (RF) may include long-side coils and short-side coils. Each of the long-side coils may extend in the second direction (DR2), and the long-side coils may be spaced apart from each other along the first direction (DR1). The short-side coil may be connected to an end of each of the long-side coils forming a loop to connect the long-side coils that are spaced apart from each other.

[0175] In Fig. 6b, each of the first sensing coils (RF) is depicted as a single loop, but in reality, each of the first sensing coils (RF) may be loop coils wound two or more times. In this case, the overlapping portions on the plane may be arranged on different layers and connected through contact holes defined in the base layer.

[0176] In addition, although FIG. 6b illustrates that the first sensing coils (RF) forming one loop are spaced apart from each other, this is not limited thereto, and the long coils included in adjacent coils among the first sensing coils (RF) according to one embodiment may be arranged alternately with each other.

[0177] Each of the second sensing coils (CF) may include long-side coils and short-side coils. Each of the long-side coils may extend in a first direction (DR1), and the long-side coils may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (DR2). The short-side coil may be connected to an end of each of the long-side coils forming a loop to connect the long-side coils that are spaced apart from each other.

[0178] Although each of the second sensing coils (CF) is depicted as a single loop in Fig. 6b, in reality, each of the second sensing coils (CF) may be loop coils wound two or more times. In this case, the overlapping portions on the plane may be arranged on different layers and connected through contact holes defined in the base layer.

[0179] In Fig. 6b, the second sensing coils (CF) forming one loop are illustrated as being spaced apart from each other, but this is not limited thereto, and the long coils included in adjacent coils among the second sensing coils (CF) according to one embodiment may be arranged alternately with each other.

[0180] An AC signal can be sequentially provided to the second terminals (CFt) of the second detection coils (CF). The second terminals (CFt) of the second detection coils (CF) and another terminal can be grounded. Signal lines (not shown) can be connected to the second terminals (CFt) of the second detection coils (CF).

[0181] When current flows through the second detection coils (CF), magnetic lines of force can be induced between the second detection coils (CF) and the first detection coils (RF). The first detection coils (RF) can detect the induced electromagnetic force emitted from the stylus pen and output the detected signal to the first terminals (RFt) of the first detection coils (RF). The first terminals (RFt) of the first detection coils (RF) and another terminal can be grounded. Signal lines (not shown) can be connected to the first terminals (RFt) of the first detection coils (RF), respectively.

[0182] According to the present invention, the digitizer (DTM) has folding lines arranged on the folding portion (DTM-F) of the digitizer (DTM), so that the input of the stylus pen can be detected even on the folding portion (DTM-F).

[0183] Referring to FIG. 7A, each of the first sensing coils (RF) may include long sides extending in the second direction (DR2) and short sides extending in the first direction (DR1) and connected to the corresponding long sides. Most of the long sides may be disposed in the active area (AA). Most of the short sides are disposed in the peripheral area (NAA), and some of the short sides are disposed in the active area (AA).

[0184] According to one embodiment, the first sensing coils (RF) may each have at least two turns and at least one of one end and the other end may be connected to a connector (CT). At least a portion of the coils of the first sensing coils (RF) that sense different signals and are adjacent to each other may overlap and intersect each other. As the first sensing coils (RF) overlap each other, an intersection point where the coils intersect on a plane may be formed. At the intersection point, any one of the first sensing coils (RF) may be connected via another layer via the above-described contact lines (NFB-U, NFB-B).

[0185] A folding member (DTM-F) according to one embodiment may include a central portion (IN) overlapping an active area (AA) and peripheral portions (OM) spaced apart from the central portion (IN) along a first direction (DR1). Each of the peripheral portions (OM) may protrude from the central portion (IN) along the first direction (DR1).

[0186] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, one outer part (OM) positioned at the top of the folding part (DTM-F) will be described in detail, and the description thereof can also be applied to the outer part (OM) positioned at the bottom of the folding part (DTM-F).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the center portion (IN) may include first holes (HL-N), and the outer portion (OM) may include second holes (HL-T) and third holes (HL-C). The first holes (HL-N), the second holes (HL-T), and the third holes (HL-C) may be formed to penetrate from the upper surface of the second upper base layer (BU2) described in FIG. 6a of the digitizer (DTM) to the lower surface of the second lower base layer (BB2). According to the present invention, the formation of each of the first holes (HL-N), the second holes (HL-T), and the third holes (HL-C) may be different from each other. A description thereof will be provided later.

[0188] According to the present invention, folding lines may also be arranged on the outer portions (OM) to make the sensing performance of the folding portion (DTM-F) and the sensing performance of the first and second non-folding portions (DTM-1, DTM-2) identical / similar. A description thereof will be provided later.

[0189] Fig. 7a is a plan view of a digitizer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7b is an enlarged plan view of QQ' of Fig. 7a. Fig. 8a is a plan view of a digitizer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 8b is an enlarged plan view of BB' of Fig. 8a. Fig. 9 is a plan view of a portion of a digitizer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 is an enlarged plan view of a region of Fig. 9.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 7A, each of the first sensing coils (RF) may include long sides extending in a first direction (DR1) and short sides extending in a second direction (DR2) and connected to corresponding long sides. Most of the long sides may be arranged in the active area (AA) and most of the short sides may be arranged in the peripheral area (NAA).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the first sensing coils (RF) may each have at least two turns and at least one of one end and the other end may be connected to a connector (CT). At least a portion of the coils of the first sensing coils (RF) that sense different signals and are adjacent to each other may overlap and intersect each other. As the first sensing coils (RF) overlap each other, an intersection point where the coils intersect on a plane may be formed. At the intersection point, any one of the first sensing coils (RF) may be connected via another layer via the above-described contact lines (NFB-U, NFB-B).

[0192] According to one embodiment, a folding member (DTM-F) may include a central portion (IN) overlapping an active area (AA) and peripheral portions (OM) overlapping a peripheral portion (NAA) and spaced apart along a second direction (DR2) with the central portion (IN) therebetween. For convenience of explanation, one peripheral portion (OM) positioned at the top of the folding member (DTM-F) will be described in detail, and the description thereof may also be applied to an peripheral portion (OM) positioned at the bottom of the folding member (DTM-F).

[0193] According to one embodiment, first holes (HL-N) may be arranged in the center (IN), and second holes (HL-T) and third holes (HL-C) may be arranged in the outer portion (OM). The formation of each of the first holes (HL-N), the second holes (HL-T), and the third holes (HL-C) may be different from each other. A description thereof will be provided later.

[0194] Fig. 7b illustrates the arrangement relationship of the center lines (CL) arranged in the center (NI) among the folding lines arranged in the folding section (DTM-F) and the first sensing coils (RF) adjacent to the center (IN).

[0195] In the present embodiment, the first holes (HL-N) arranged in the center (IN) of the folding portion (DTM-F) may include first group holes (H1) and second group holes (H2). For example, the first group holes (H1) may include a plurality of holes each extending along the first direction (DR1) and arranged in the first direction (DR1).

[0196] The second group of holes (H2) may include a plurality of holes spaced apart from the first group of holes (H1) along the second direction (DR2), each of which extends along the first direction (DR1) and is arranged in the first direction (DR1).

[0197] In this embodiment, the second group hole (H2) can be shifted by a predetermined distance in the first direction (DR1) from the first group hole (H1). The shape of the remaining portion of the folding portion (DTM-F), excluding the first holes (HL-N), can have a lattice-patterned slit shape.

[0198] The center lines (CL) may include first group patterns (PP1) and second group patterns (PP2). The first group patterns (PP1) and the second group patterns (PP2) may be alternately arranged along the first direction (DR1).

[0199] Each of the first group pattern (PP1) and the second group pattern (PP2) may include two wires. Accordingly, up to four center lines (CL) may be arranged between holes adjacent to each other along the first direction (DR1) among the holes included in the first group hole (H1) and the second group hole (H2).

[0200] The first group pattern (PP1) and the second group pattern (PP2) can be arranged between the first holes (HL-N) in a symmetrical shape centered on a line of causticity extending along the second direction (DR2).

[0201] The first group pattern (PP1) may include a first-first line (PL1-1) and a first-second line (PL1-2). Each of the first-first line (PL1-1) and the first-second line (PL1-2) may include a plurality of patterns (PB-1, P1-1, P2-1, P3-1, P4-1). Hereinafter, the patterns (PB-1, P1-1, P2-1, P3-1, P4-1) included in the first-first line (PL1-1) will be described, and the description thereof may also be equally applied to the patterns (PB-1, P1-1, P2-1, P3-1, P4-1) included in the first-second line (PL1-2). Patterns (PB-1, P1-1, P2-1, P3-1, P4-1) are described as a portion of one coil extending from the first sensing coil (RF, non-folding coils) or as separate components for convenience of explanation.

[0202] The first bridge pattern (PB-1) may be connected to one end of the first detection coil (RF, non-folding coil). The first bridge pattern (PB-1) may be connected along the second direction (DR2). One end of the first bridge pattern (PB-1) may be connected to one end of the first detection coil (RF, non-folding coil), and the other end of the first bridge pattern (PB-1) may be connected to one end of the first-1 pattern (P1-1).

[0203] The first-first pattern (P1-1) may be arranged on the upper portion of any one of the first group holes (H1). The first-first pattern (P1-1) may have a convex shape in the first direction (DR1). The other end of the first-first pattern (P1-1) may be connected to one end of the first-second pattern (P2-1).

[0204] The first-second pattern (P2-1) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The first-second pattern (P2-1) may be arranged between a first hole among the first group holes (H1) and a second hole among the second group holes (H2) facing the first hole in the second direction (DR2). The other end of the first-second pattern (P2-1) may be connected to one end of the first-third pattern (P3-1).

[0205] The first-third pattern (P3-1) may be arranged at the lower portion of the second hole among the second group holes (H2). The first-third pattern (P3-1) may have a concave shape in the first direction (DR1). The other end of the first-third pattern (P3-1) may be connected to one end of the first-fourth pattern (P4-1).

[0206] The 1-4 pattern (P4-1) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The 1-4 pattern (P4-1) may be arranged between the second hole among the second group holes (H2) and the third hole among the first group holes (H1) facing the second hole in the second direction (DR2). The other end of the 1-4 pattern (P4-1) may be connected to one end of the repeated 1-1 pattern (P1-1).

[0207] The second group pattern (PP2) may include a second-first line (PL2-1) and a second-second line (PL2-2). Each of the second-first line (PL2-1) and the second-second line (PL2-2) may include a plurality of patterns (PB-2, P1-2, P2-2, P3-2, P4-2). Hereinafter, the patterns (PB-2, P1-2, P2-2, P3-2, P4-2) included in the second-first line (PL2-1) will be described, and the description thereof may also be equally applied to the patterns (PB-2, P1-2, P2-2, P3-2, P4-2) included in the second-second line (PL2-2). Patterns (PB-2, P1-2, P2-2, P3-2, P4-2) are described as a part of another coil extending from the first sensing coil (RF, non-folding coils) or as separate components for convenience of explanation.

[0208] The second bridge pattern (PB-2) may be connected to one end of the first detection coil (RF, non-folding coil). The second bridge pattern (PB-2) may be connected along the second direction (DR2). One end of the second bridge pattern (PB-2) may be connected to one end of the first detection coil (RF, non-folding coil), and the other end of the second bridge pattern (PB-2) may be connected to one end of the second-first pattern (P2-1).

[0209] The second-first pattern (P1-2) may be arranged at the lower portion of the hole in which the first-first pattern (P1-1) is arranged among the first group holes (H1). The second-first pattern (P1-2) may have a concave shape in the first direction (DR1). The other end of the second-first pattern (P1-2) may be connected to one end of the second-second pattern (P2-2).

[0210] The second-second pattern (P2-2) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The second-second pattern (P2-2) may be arranged between a first hole among the first group of holes (H1) and a fourth hole among the second group of holes (H2) facing the first hole in the second direction (DR2). The second hole and the fourth hole among the second group of holes (H2) may be adjacent along the first direction (DR1). The other end of the second-second pattern (P2-2) may be connected to one end of the second-third pattern (P3-2).

[0211] The 2-3 pattern (P3-2) may be arranged on the upper portion of the 4th hole among the 2nd group holes (H2). The 2-3 pattern (P3-2) may have a convex shape in the first direction (DR1). The other end of the 2-3 pattern (P3-2) may be connected to one end of the 2-4 pattern (P4-2).

[0212] The 2-4 pattern (P4-2) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The 2-4 pattern (P4-4) may be arranged between the second hole among the second group holes (H2) and the fifth hole among the first group holes (H1) that face the second hole in the second direction (DR2). The third hole and the fifth hole may be adjacent along the first direction (DR1). The other end of the 2-4 pattern (P4-2) may be connected to one end of the repeated 2-1 pattern (P1-2).

[0213] Referring to FIG. 8A, each of the second sensing coils (CF) may include long sides extending in the first direction (DR1) and short sides extending in the second direction (DR2) and connected to the corresponding long sides. Most of the long sides may be arranged in the active area (AA) and most of the short sides may be arranged in the peripheral area (NAA).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the second sensing coils (CF) may each have at least two turns to form an open loop, and at least one of one end and the other end may be connected to a connector (CT). At least a portion of the second sensing coils (CF) that sense different signals and are adjacent to each other may overlap and intersect each other. As each of the second sensing coils (CF) overlaps each other, an intersection point where the coils intersect on a plane may be formed. At the intersection point, any one of the second sensing coils (CF) may be connected via another layer via the above-described contact lines (NFB-U, NFB-B).

[0215] Fig. 8b illustrates folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) arranged in the center (IN) of the folding portion (DTM-F). The folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may be any one of the folding lines (BR-U1, BR-U2, BR-B1, BR-B2) described in Fig. 6.

[0216] At least one of the folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may be connected to some of the second sensing coils (CF) arranged in the first non-folding portion (DTM-1), and another one of the folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may be connected to some of the second sensing coils (CF) arranged in the second non-folding portion (DTM-2).

[0217] Each of the first group folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4) and the second group folding lines (C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may extend along the first direction (DR1) and be arranged between first holes (HL-N) adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2). In a plane, the first group folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4) and the second group folding lines (C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may be arranged alternately along the second direction (DR2). According to one embodiment, the first group folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4) and the second group folding lines (C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) may be arranged on the same layer or on different layers, and are not limited to any one embodiment.

[0218] Among the folding lines arranged in the folding section (DTM-F), the folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) connected to the second detection coils (CF) may have one coil arranged between holes (HL) adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2).

[0219] However, it is not limited thereto, and the shape of the folding lines (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3, C1-4, C2-1, C2-2, C2-3, C2-4) connected to the second sensing coils (CF) and arranged at the center (IN) may have the same shape as the patterns included in the first group pattern (PP1) and the second group pattern (PP2) described in FIG. 7b, and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0220] Figure 9 shows the arrangement relationship of the outer lines (OL) arranged in the outer part (OM) among the folding lines arranged in the folding part (DTM-F).

[0221] Referring to Fig. 9, in the present embodiment, the outer portion (OM) of the folding portion (DTM-F) may have second holes (HL-T) and third holes (HL-C) arranged. According to the present invention, the formation of each of the first hole (HL-N), the second hole (HL-T), and the third hole (HL-C) defined in the folding portion (DTM-F) may be different from each other.

[0222] The first holes (HL-N) may correspond to the first holes (HL-N) described in Fig. 7b. Each of the first holes (HL-N) extends in the first direction (DR1), and the holes included in different groups may be arranged alternately and shifted in the first direction (DR1).

[0223] The second holes (HL-T) may be spaced apart along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second holes (HL-T) may be divided into a first portion (TP1) and a second portion (TP2). The first portion (TP1) may be defined as a portion overlapping the outer portion (OM), and the second portion (TP2) may be defined as a portion overlapping the center portion (IN). The second portion (TP2) may cover a portion of the first holes (HL-N) adjacent to the boundary between the center portion (IN) and the outer portion (OM).

[0224] Each of the second holes (HL-T) may include a first hole (T1), a second hole (T2), and a third hole (T3). The first hole (T1), the second hole (T2), and the third hole (T3) are openings that substantially form one hole, but are distinguished for convenience of explanation. The first hole (T1) may overlap the first portion (TP1), and the second hole (T2) and the third hole (T3) may overlap the second portion (TP2).

[0225] The first hole (T1) may be aligned with the first group hole (H1) adjacent to the outer portion (OM) among the first group holes (H1) along the first direction (DR1). The second hole (T2) may be connected to the first hole (T1) and may be arranged on the left side of the first group hole (H1). The third hole (T3) may be connected to the first hole (T1) and may be arranged on the right side of the first group hole (H1). Accordingly, the second hole (T2) and the third hole (T3) may be spaced apart from each other with the first group hole (H1) therebetween.

[0226] The third holes (HL-C) may be aligned with the second group of holes (H2) along the second direction (DR2). Each of the third holes (HL-C) may be arranged at the edge (ET) of the outer portion (OM) along the second direction (DR2) and may have a shape in which a portion is perforated. Accordingly, each of the third holes (HL-C) may form an open aperture. The second holes (HL-T) and the third holes (HL-C) may be arranged alternately along the second direction (DR2).

[0227] Each of the third holes (HL-C) can be divided into a first portion (CP1) and a second portion (CP2). The first portion (CP1) can be defined as a portion alternately arranged along the second direction (DR2) with the first portion (TP1) of each of the second holes (HL-T). The second portion (CP2) can be defined as a portion arranged at the edge (ET) of the outer portion (OM) to form an open opening. The width in the second direction (DR2) between the side surfaces of the outer portion (OM) defining the second portion (CP2) can be constant.

[0228] According to the present invention, on a plane, the first part (TP1) of each of the second holes (HL-T) and the first part (CP1) of each of the third holes (HL-C) can have a convex water droplet shape in opposite directions.

[0229] More specifically, the first portion (TP1) of each of the second holes (HL-T) may have a convex shape in a direction away from the center (IN). The first portion (CP1) of each of the third holes (HL-C) may have a convex shape in a direction approaching the center (IN).

[0230] In the outer portion (OM) according to the present invention, an outer line (OL) can be arranged on three of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1).

[0231] An outer line (OL) arranged on one base layer may include first to third outer lines (BR1, BR2, BR3).

[0232] The first to third outer lines (BR1, BR2, BR3) may be lines connecting between coils arranged in the peripheral area (NAA) of the first non-folding portion (DTM-1) and the second non-folding portion (DTM-2) among the first detection coils (RF) described in FIG. 7a, or may be lines connecting between coils arranged in the peripheral area (NAA) of the first non-folding portion (DTM-1) and the second non-folding portion (DTM-2) among the second detection coils (CF) described in FIG. 8a.

[0233] Each of the first to third outer lines (BR1, BR2, BR3) may include the first to fourth lines (F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4). The first to fourth lines (F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4) are interconnected, but for convenience of explanation, they are described as separate configurations.

[0234] The first line (F-1) and the third line (F-3) may have line shapes extending in diagonal directions in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), respectively, and the second line (F-2) and the fourth line (F-4) may have curved shapes having a predetermined curvature.

[0235] The first line (F-1) can be arranged between the first part (TP1) of the second hole (HL-T) and the first part (CP1) of the third hole (HL-C).

[0236] The second line (F-2) may be arranged adjacent to the convex portion of the first portion (CP1) of the third hole (HL-C). That is, the second line (F-2) may be arranged adjacent to the boundary between the center (IN) and the outer portion (OM).

[0237] The third line (F-3) can be arranged between the first part (CP1) of the third hole (HL-C) and the first part (TP1) of the other second hole (HL-T).

[0238] The fourth line (F-4) may be arranged adjacent to a convex portion of the first portion (TP1) of another second hole (HL-T). That is, the fourth line (F-4) may be arranged adjacent to an edge (ET) of an outer portion (OM).

[0239] Each of the first to third outer lines (BR1, BR2, BR3) may have a shape in which the first to fourth lines (F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4) are alternately arranged along the second direction (DR2).

[0240] Referring to FIG. 10, the width (W) of the outer portion (OM) where the first lines (F-1) are arranged in a direction spaced apart from each other between the first part (TP1) of the second hole (HL-T) and the first part (CP1) of the third hole (HL-C) may be 0.2 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0241] The center distance (R) from the center of the radius of curvature of the part with the maximum curvature among the first part (TP1) of the second hole (HL-T) to the second outer line (BR2) may be 0.3 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

[0242] The outer portion (OM) in which the first lines (F-1) and the third lines (F-3) are arranged along the extension direction of the first lines (F-1) may have an extension distance (L).

[0243]

[0244] *According to the present invention, the ratio of the extension distance (L) to the center distance (R) may be 1 or more. In addition, the ratio of the width (W) to the center distance (R) may be 0.5 or less.

[0245] Hereinafter, the ratio of the extension distance (L) to the optimal center distance (R) and the ratio of the width (W) to the center distance (R) are examined with reference to Table 1. The extension distance (L), width (W), and extension distance (L) in Table 1 are the same as those described above, and the unit for the data in Table 1 may be mm.

[0246] Numerical data (mm) Center distance (R) 0.6 20.6 20.6 20.6 20.6 20.62 Width (W) 0.26 0.6 20.6 20.26 0.26 Extension distance (L) 0.26 0.6 20.26 0.62 Extension distance (L) / Center distance (R) 0.5 10.5 1 Width (W) / Center distance (R) 0.5 1 10.5 0.5 Tensile modulus of elasticity of the folding part (DTM-F) [Mpa] 5.8 3 5.8 5 4.4 8 3.0 7 2.29 Folding reliability 0% 25% 50% 75% 100%

[0247] Referring to Table 1, when the center distance (R) is 0.62 mm and the width (W) is 0.26 mm, which is half of the center distance (R), the width (W) / center distance (R) can have 0.5. When the center distance (R) is 0.62 mm and the extension distance (L) is 0.62 mm, which is the same as the center distance (R), the extension distance (L) / center distance (R) can have 1. When the width (W) / center distance (R) is 0.5 and the extension distance (L) / center distance (R) is 1, the tensile modulus of the folding portion (DTM-F) can have the lowest value of 2.29 Mpa. According to the present invention, by limiting the second holes (HL-T) and third holes (HL-T) arranged in the outer portion (OM) to the ratio of the extension distance (L), the center distance (R), and the width (W), the problem of cracks occurring in the outer lines arranged in the outer portion (OM) during a folding operation can be improved. Accordingly, an electronic device (ED) including a digitizer (DTM) with improved sensing sensitivity can be provided. In addition, by arranging the first to third outer lines (BR1, BR2, BR3) in each of at least three layers among the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1) in the outer portion (OM) of the digitizer (DTM), the sensing sensitivity of the folding portion (DTM-F) can be improved.

[0248] More specifically, in embodiments other than the present invention, the problem of different sensing sensitivities between the outer portion (OM) and the center (IN) can be improved by placing the outer lines that should be placed in the outer portion (OM) in the center (IN) because the space in the outer portion (OM) is narrow.

[0249] Figures 11a to 11d are plan views of a portion of a digitizer according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 11a to 11d illustrate, for each layer, the outer lines (OL, see Figure 9) arranged on the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1) included in the base portion (BM) described in Figure 6a. Hereinafter, the outer lines, second holes, and third holes described in Figures 11a to 11d may correspond to the descriptions of the outer line (OL), second holes (HL-T), and third holes (HL-C) described in Figure 9.

[0250] Referring to FIG. 11a, a first outer line (OL-1) may be arranged on the second lower base layer (BB2). The first outer line (OL-1) may include first to third lines (B1-1, B1-2, B1-3). The first to third lines (B1-1, B1-2, B1-3) may be arranged on the upper surface (BB2-u) of the second lower base layer (BB2).

[0251] The second lower base layer (BB2) may include second-first holes (HL-T1) and third-first holes (HL-C1) spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second-first holes (HL-T1) may include a first portion (T1-1) and a second portion (T2-1). Each of the third-first holes (HL-C1) may include a first portion (C1-1) and a second portion (C2-1). The second-first holes (HL-T1) and the third-first holes (HL-C1) may correspond to the holes defined in the second lower base layer (BB2) among the second holes (HL-T) and the third holes (HL-C) described in FIG. 9.

[0252] The 1-1 to 1-3 lines (B1-1, B1-2, B1-3) can be arranged between the 2-1 holes (HL-T1) and the 3-1 holes (HL-C1) in the outer portion (OM).

[0253] Referring to FIG. 11b, a second outer line (OL-2) may be arranged on the first lower base layer (BB1). The second outer line (OL-2) may include the second-first to second-third lines (B2-1, B2-2, B2-3). The second-first to second-third lines (B2-1, B2-2, B2-3) may be arranged on the upper surface (BB1-u) of the first lower base layer (BB1).

[0254] The first lower base layer (BB1) may include second-second holes (HL-T2) and third-second holes (HL-C2) spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second-second holes (HL-T2) may include a first portion (T1-2) and a second portion (T2-2). Each of the third-second holes (HL-C2) may include a first portion (C1-2) and a second portion (C2-2). The second-second holes (HL-T2) and the third-second holes (HL-C2) may correspond to holes defined in the first lower base layer (BB1) among the second holes (HL-T) and the third holes (HL-C) described in FIG. 9.

[0255] The 2-1 to 2-3 lines (B2-1, B2-2, B2-3) can be arranged between the 2-2 holes (HL-T2) and the 3-2 holes (HL-C2) in the outer portion (OM).

[0256] Referring to FIG. 11c, a third outer line (OL-3) may be arranged on the base layer (BG). The third outer line (OL-3) may include the third-first to third-third lines (B3-1, B3-2, B3-3). The third-first to third-third lines (B3-1, B3-2, B3-3) may be arranged on the upper surface (BG-u) of the base layer (BG).

[0257] The base layer (BG) may include second-third holes (HL-T3) and third-third holes (HL-C3) spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second-third holes (HL-T3) may include a first portion (T1-3) and a second portion (T2-3). Each of the third-third holes (HL-C3) may include a first portion (C1-3) and a second portion (C2-3). The second-third holes (HL-T3) and the third-third holes (HL-C3) may correspond to holes defined in the base layer (BG) among the second holes (HL-T) and the third holes (HL-C) described in FIG. 9.

[0258] The 3-1 to 3-3 lines (B3-1, B3-2, B3-3) can be arranged between the 2-3 holes (HL-T3) and the 2-3 holes (HL-T3) in the outer portion (OM).

[0259] Referring to FIG. 11d, a fourth outer line (OL-4) may be arranged on the first upper base layer (BU1). The fourth outer line (OL-4) may include the 4-1 to 4-3 lines (B4-1, B4-2, B4-3). The 4-1 to 4-3 lines (B4-1, B4-2, B4-3) may be arranged on the upper surface (BU1-u) of the first upper base layer (BU1).

[0260] The first upper base layer (BU1) may include second-fourth holes (HL-T4) and third-fourth holes (HL-C4) spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second-fourth holes (HL-T4) may include a first portion (T1-4) and a second portion (T2-4). Each of the third-fourth holes (HL-C4) may include a first portion (C1-4) and a second portion (C2-4). The second-fourth holes (HL-T4) and the third-fourth holes (HL-C4) may correspond to the holes defined in the first upper base layer (BU1) among the second holes (HL-T) and the third holes (HL-C) described in FIG. 9.

[0261] The 4-1 to 4-3 lines (B4-1, B4-2, B4-3) can be arranged between the 2-4 holes (HL-T4) and the 3-4 holes (HL-C4) in the outer portion (OM).

[0262] The outer lines described in FIGS. 11A to 11D may overlap each other. In addition, if at least nine lines can be arranged in the outer portion (OM), an outer line arranged in any one of the base layers (BG, BU1, BU2, BB1) may be omitted. In addition, if at least nine lines can be arranged in the outer portion (OM), at least one of the three lines arranged in the outer lines may be omitted, and the present invention is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0263] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or having ordinary knowledge in the art that various modifications and changes to the present invention can be made without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims to be described below.

[0264] Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the patent claims.

[0265] A foldable electronic device may include a digitizer that detects external input, such as a stylus pen. The folding portion of the digitizer includes a central portion including first holes, an outer portion including second holes, and a third hole, and the first to third holes have different shapes. Therefore, the invention for an electronic device with improved sensing performance in the folding portion has high industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A display module including an active area for displaying an image and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area; and A digitizer including a folding part arranged at the bottom of the display module and folded based on a folding axis extending along a first direction, a first non-folding part and a second non-folding part spaced apart along a second direction intersecting the first direction with the folding part interposed therebetween, and a base part and sensing coils arranged on the base part, The above folding part, a central portion including first holes and overlapping the active region; and having different shapes, each of which includes a first part and a second part, and includes second holes and third holes alternately arranged along the second direction, and includes an outer portion extending from the center along the first direction, On the plane, the first portion of each of the second holes has a convex shape in a direction away from the center, An electronic device in which the first portion of each of the third holes has a convex shape in a direction approaching the center on a plane.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the second portion of each of the second holes covers a portion of the first hole adjacent to the boundary between the central portion and the outer portion among the first holes.

3. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein the second portion of each of the third holes is arranged at the edge of the outer portion to form an open opening.

4. In paragraph 3, In the second direction, the width between the sides of the outer portion defining the second portion is constant.

5. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the first holes each include first group holes extending along a first direction and arranged along the second direction, and second group holes alternately arranged with the first group holes and shifted along the first direction with the first group holes, and each extending along the first direction and arranged along the second direction.

6. In paragraph 1, *The above detection coils include non-folding coils arranged in the first non-folding portion and the second non-folding portion, central lines arranged in the center, and outer lines arranged in the outer portion, Each of the above outer lines is alternately arranged as a first linear line, a second linear line having a predetermined curvature, a third linear line, and a fourth linear line having a predetermined curvature, The first line is arranged between the first part of any one of the second holes and the first part of any one of the third holes, The second line is arranged adjacent to the convex portion of the first portion of the third hole, The third line is arranged between the first part of one of the third holes and the first part of the other of the second holes, The above fourth line is an electronic device arranged adjacent to the convex portion of the first portion of the above second hole.

7. In paragraph 6, An electronic device in which the width of the outer portion where the first lines are arranged between the first portion of the second hole and the first portion of the third hole is 0.2 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less, in a direction in which the first lines are spaced apart from each other among the outer lines.

8. In paragraph 7, The above outer lines include first to third outer lines spaced apart from each other and arranged sequentially, An electronic device in which the center distance from the center of the radius of curvature of the part of the first part of the second hole having the maximum curvature to the second outer line is 0.3 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

9. In paragraph 8, An electronic device in which, in the direction in which the first line is extended, the outer part of the linear portion in which the first line is arranged has an extension distance, and the ratio of the extension distance to the center distance is 1 or more.

10. In paragraph 8, An electronic device wherein the ratio of the width to the center distance is 0.5 or less.

11. In paragraph 6, The above base part, A base layer including an upper surface facing the display module and a lower surface opposite to the upper surface; A first upper base layer disposed on the upper surface of the base layer; A second upper base layer disposed on the upper surface of the first upper base layer; A first lower base layer disposed on the lower surface of the base layer; and An electronic device comprising a second lower base layer disposed on a lower surface of the first lower base layer.

12. In paragraph 11, An electronic device wherein the above outline lines are disposed on at least three layers of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, and the first upper base layer.

13. In paragraph 12, The outer lines arranged in any one of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, and the first upper base layer include first to third lines that are spaced apart from each other and arranged sequentially, An electronic device having at least nine outer lines arranged on the outer periphery.

14. In paragraph 11, Each of the above sensing coils comprises one of copper and a copper alloy, An electronic device in which each of the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, the first upper base layer, and the upper second base layer comprises a matrix including a filler and a reinforced fiber composite disposed within the matrix and including one of reinforcing fibers and carbon fibers.

15. In paragraph 14, The matrix comprises at least one of epoxy, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polybutylene, and vinyl ester. An electronic device wherein the filler comprises at least one of silica, barium sulfate, sintered talc, barium titanate, titanium oxide, clay, alumina, mica, boehmite, zinc borate, and zinc tinate.

16. In paragraph 11, An electronic device wherein each of the above non-folding coils forms an open loop having at least two turns.

17. In paragraph 16, An electronic device in which the two-rotated and intersecting portions of the non-folding coils are connected through a bridge pattern and a contact hole disposed on different layers among the second lower base layer, the first lower base layer, the base layer, the first upper base layer, and the upper second base layer.

18. In paragraph 16, An electronic device in which two center lines are arranged between the adjacent first holes on a plane.

19. In paragraph 1, The display module is an electronic device including a display panel for displaying the image and an input sensor that is directly disposed on the display panel and detects an external input in a capacitive manner.

20. In paragraph 1, The above digitizer is an electronic device that detects external input using electromagnetic resonance (EMR).

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