Display panel, manufacturing method therefor, and display apparatus

Abstract

A display panel, the display panel comprising a first support layer (1), the first support layer (1) being made from glass; a drive circuit layer (4) is directly provided on the first support layer (1). Since glass has a relatively small deformation space and is not prone to plastic deformation, the probability of forming creases in the first support layer (1) can be reduced to a certain extent. A flexible substrate (3) and a second support layer (2) between the first support layer (1) and the drive circuit layer (4) are omitted, such that creases can be prevented from being generated in the flexible substrate (3) and the second support layer (2), and impurities in the flexible substrate (3) can be prevented from affecting the characteristics of the drive circuit layer (4), thereby relieving the afterimage phenomenon of the display panel during always-on display. The area of the first support layer (1) located in a bending region (300) is provided with a first groove (101), such that the thickness of the first support layer (1) in the bending region (300) is reduced, thereby facilitating the bending of the first support layer (1) and preventing the first support layer (1) from being broken during bending. Also provided in the present disclosure are a manufacturing method for the display panel and a display apparatus comprising the display panel.

Description

Display panel and its manufacturing method, display device

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410572718.1, filed on May 9, 2024, entitled “Display Panel and Method of Manufacturing Thereof, Display Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and more specifically, to a display panel, a method for manufacturing the same, and a display device. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of terminal demand, foldable flexible display devices are gaining increasing popularity due to their advantages of being easy to carry and having a wide range of applications.

[0005] Current foldable flexible display devices, when used for an extended period of time in a bent, rolled, or folded state, will undergo plastic deformation, resulting in creases and affecting the viewing experience of the screen.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to overcome the problem that foldable flexible display devices will undergo plastic deformation and creases when used for a long time in a bent, rolled or folded state, which affects the viewing effect of the screen. The disclosure provides a display panel, a method for manufacturing the same, and a display device.

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display panel is provided, wherein a bending region is provided in the extension direction of the bending axis. The display panel includes a first support layer, a driving circuit layer, a light-emitting layer, and an encapsulation layer. The material of the first support layer is glass. The driving circuit layer is disposed on one side of the first support layer. The light-emitting layer is disposed on the side of the driving circuit layer away from the first support layer. The encapsulation layer is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the first support layer. A first groove is provided in the area of ​​the first support layer located within the bending region.

[0009] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the width of the first groove is greater than or equal to the width of the bending area.

[0010] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the width of the first groove gradually increases in the direction away from the driving circuit layer.

[0011] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the width of the first groove remains constant along the direction away from the driving circuit layer.

[0012] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the bottom surface of the first groove is an arc angle, and the second corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer is an arc angle.

[0013] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first groove is provided on the side of the first support layer away from the drive circuit layer.

[0014] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first cover layer is provided on the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer, and the first cover layer at least covers the surface of the first groove.

[0015] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cover layer is opaque and covers the surface of the first groove, and the side of the first support layer away from the drive circuit layer is located in the planar area surrounding the first groove.

[0016] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first filling portion is provided in the first groove. The first filling portion is located on the side of the first cover layer away from the driving circuit layer, and the material of the first filling portion is a shape memory polymer.

[0017] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first filling portion is provided in the first groove, the first filling portion is in direct contact with the surface of the first groove, and the material of the first filling portion is a shape memory polymer.

[0018] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the thickness of the first support layer is 0.5t, the depth of the first groove is 0.2t-0.47t, and the thickness between the bottom surface of the first groove and the side of the first groove near the driving circuit layer is 0.03t-0.3t.

[0019] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the display panel further includes a flexible substrate, a touch layer, and a cover plate. The flexible substrate is disposed between the first support layer and the driving circuit layer, the touch layer is disposed on the side of the encapsulation layer away from the first support layer, and the cover plate is disposed on the side of the touch layer away from the first support layer.

[0020] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the display panel further includes a polarizing layer disposed between the touch layer and the cover plate, or the display panel further includes a color filter layer disposed between the touch layer and the encapsulation layer.

[0021] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a second groove is provided on the side of the cover plate near the first support layer, and the orthographic projection of the second groove on the cover plate is located within the bending area.

[0022] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a second cover layer is provided on the side of the cover plate near the driving circuit layer, and the second cover layer covers the surface of the second groove.

[0023] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a second filling portion is provided in the second groove. The second filling portion is located on the side of the second cover layer near the driving circuit layer, and the material of the second filling portion is a shape memory polymer.

[0024] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a second filling portion is provided in the second groove, the second filling portion is in direct contact with the surface of the second groove, and the material of the first filling portion is a shape memory polymer.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a display panel according to one aspect of this disclosure is provided, the method comprising:

[0026] A first support layer is provided, and the material of the first support layer is glass;

[0027] A driving circuit layer is formed on the first support layer;

[0028] A light-emitting layer is formed on the side of the driving circuit layer away from the first support layer;

[0029] An encapsulation layer is formed on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the first support layer;

[0030] A first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, along the extension direction of the bending axis of the display panel.

[0031] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel, including:

[0032] A laser beam is used to act uniformly in the bending area of ​​the first support layer along the extension direction of the bending axis, thereby changing the physical properties of the first support layer located in the bending area.

[0033] The first support layer in the bending area after the laser beam has acted is etched using an etching solution to form the first groove.

[0034] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the width of the laser beam is greater than or equal to 1.2 times the width of the bending region.

[0035] In one embodiment of this disclosure, an etching solution is used to etch the first support layer within the bending region after the laser beam has acted upon, forming a first groove, including:

[0036] The first support layer is simultaneously etched using an etching solution in the area within the bending zone and the non-bending zone outside the bending zone, forming the first groove within the bending zone while thinning the area outside the bending zone.

[0037] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel, including:

[0038] Photoresist is applied to the area surrounding the bending region of the first support layer;

[0039] The first groove is formed by etching the area covered by the photoresist but not by the bent area, and the area covered by the non-bent area outside the bent area, using an etching solution or etching gas.

[0040] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a display device is provided, including a display panel provided in one aspect of this disclosure.

[0041] The display panel disclosed herein includes a first support layer made of glass. A driving circuit layer is directly disposed on the first support layer. Glass has a small deformation space and is not prone to plastic deformation, which reduces the probability of creases forming in the first support layer to a certain extent. The removal of the flexible substrate and the second support layer between the first support layer and the driving circuit layer avoids creases in the flexible substrate and the second support layer, and also prevents impurities in the flexible substrate from affecting the characteristics of the driving circuit layer, thereby improving the image retention phenomenon of the display panel during continuous illumination. A first groove is provided in the bending area of ​​the first support layer, reducing the thickness of the first support layer in the bending area, which facilitates bending of the first support layer and prevents breakage during bending. Therefore, this display panel ensures bending reliability while having a low probability of creases and is less prone to image retention during continuous illumination.

[0042] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0044] Figure 1 is a plan view of the display panel according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a second support layer and a flexible substrate.

[0046] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the AA section of Figure 1.

[0047] Figure 4 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the display panel when the second support layer is removed according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel when the second support layer is removed according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0049] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the second support layer is removed and the first groove is provided on the first support layer.

[0050] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first support layer with a first groove provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a flexible substrate, a first groove on a first support layer, and the cross-sectional shape of the first groove being rectangular.

[0052] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the cross-sectional shape of the first groove is rectangular, and the first corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the bottom surface of the first groove is an arc angle, and the second corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer is an arc angle.

[0053] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the cross-sectional shape of the first groove is trapezoidal, and the first corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the bottom surface of the first groove is an arc angle, and the second corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer is an arc angle.

[0054] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the display panel is bent along the first groove and the flexible substrate and polarizer form a crease.

[0055] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel according to the embodiments of this disclosure when the cross-sectional shape of the first groove is rectangular, after removing the second support layer and the flexible substrate.

[0056] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel according to the embodiments of this disclosure when the cross-sectional shape of the first groove is trapezoidal, after removing the second support layer and the flexible substrate.

[0057] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first covering layer is formed on the surface of the first groove.

[0058] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first cover layer is formed on the surface of the first groove and on the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer.

[0059] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the cross-sectional shape of the first groove is trapezoidal and the first groove is provided with a first filling part.

[0060] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first filling part is in direct contact with the first support layer.

[0061] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the first groove has a first filling part and the cover plate has a second groove on the side near the driving circuit layer.

[0062] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the first groove has a first filling part and the second groove has a second filling part.

[0063] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the first support layer has a first groove, the cover plate has a second groove, and the second filling part is only provided in the second groove.

[0064] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the deformation of the polarizing layer in the embodiments of this disclosure when the first groove of the display panel, which has a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape, is bent.

[0065] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel in the present disclosure when it is bent, provided that the first support layer has a trapezoidal first groove and the first groove has a first filling part.

[0066] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel in the present disclosure embodiment when it is bent, with the first support layer having a trapezoidal first groove and the second groove having a second filling part.

[0067] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the polarizer is removed, a color filter layer is provided between the encapsulation layer and the touch layer, and the first support layer is provided with a trapezoidal first groove.

[0068] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure when the polarizer is removed, a color filter layer is provided between the encapsulation layer and the touch layer, the first support layer has a trapezoidal first groove and the second groove has a second filling part.

[0069] Figure 26 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0070] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to an embodiment of this disclosure when laser modulation is performed on the position of the first support layer located in the folding area using parallel laser beams.

[0071] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure in this embodiment of the present disclosure when an irregular laser beam with a depth that gradually increases from both sides to the middle is used to perform laser modulation on the position of the first support layer located in the folding area.

[0072] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure in the embodiment of this disclosure when the first support layer in the bending area after the laser beam has been wet-etched by the etching solution to form a first groove with a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0073] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure in the embodiment of this disclosure when the first support layer in the bending area after the laser beam has been wet-etched by the etching solution to form a first groove with a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0074] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to the embodiments of this disclosure when photoresist of equal thickness is coated in the non-bending area.

[0075] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to the embodiments of this disclosure when photoresist of non-uniform thickness is coated in the non-bending area.

[0076] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when a first cover layer is formed on the surface of the first rectangular groove and on the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer.

[0077] Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when a first cover layer is formed on the surface of the trapezoidal first groove and on the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer.

[0078] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of the display panel partially stacked structure according to the embodiments of this disclosure when the first filling part is provided in the first groove.

[0079] In the diagram: 100-Display area, 200-Non-display area, 300-Bending area, 1-First support layer, 101-First groove, 2-Second support layer, 3-Flexible substrate, 4-Driving circuit layer, 5-Light-emitting layer, 6-Encapsulation layer, 7-Touch layer, 8-Polarizing layer, 9-Cover plate, 91-Second groove, 10-First cover layer, 11-Second cover layer, 12-First filling part, 13-Second filling part, 14-Color filter layer, 15-Photoresist, 151-Working area. Detailed Implementation

[0080] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore detailed descriptions of them will be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0081] Although relative terms such as "up" and "down" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship of one component of an icon to another, these terms are used only for convenience, such as according to the orientation of the examples shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that if the device of the icon is flipped upside down, the component described as "up" will become the component described as "down." When a structure is "up" of another structure, it may mean that the structure is integrally formed on the other structure, or that the structure is "directly" mounted on the other structure, or that the structure is "indirectly" mounted on the other structure through another structure.

[0082] The terms “a,” “one,” “the,” “the,” and “at least one” are used to indicate the presence of one or more elements / components / etc.; the terms “including” and “having” are used to indicate an open-ended inclusion and to mean that there may be other elements / components / etc. in addition to the listed elements / components / etc.; the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only as markers and are not a limitation on the number of objects.

[0083] With the development of terminal demand, foldable flexible display devices are gaining increasing popularity due to their portability and wide range of applications. Figure 1 is a plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display panel includes a display area 100, a non-display area 200, and a bending area 300. The non-display area 200 is located around the display area 100. The bending axis p of the display panel extends along the width direction of the display area 100. The bending area 300 extends in the same direction as the bending axis p and is symmetrically arranged about the bending axis p. The flexible display panel can be bent along the bending area 300. When the flexible display panel is in a bent, rolled, or folded state, the relevant film layer structure will be subjected to stress. The stress and deformation caused by the stress in the bending area 300 are much greater than those in the flat area. The film layer in the bending area 300 will creep if used for too long. Under the action of creep, the film layer in the bending area 300 is more prone to plastic deformation.

[0084] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the display panel includes a first support layer 1, a second support layer 2, a flexible substrate 3, a driving circuit layer 4, a light-emitting layer 5, an encapsulation layer 6, a touch layer 7, a polarizing layer 8, and a cover plate 9. The first support layer 1 is a metal support layer, and the second support layer 2 is a flexible support layer. The second support layer 2 is disposed on one side of the first support layer 1. The flexible substrate 3 is disposed on the side of the second support layer 2 away from the first support layer 1. The driving circuit layer 4 is disposed on the side of the flexible substrate 3 away from the first support layer 1. The light-emitting layer 5 is disposed on the side of the driving circuit layer 4 away from the first support layer 1, and the light-emitting layer 5 exposes the edge area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. The encapsulation layer 6 is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1 and covers the edge area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. The touch layer 7 is disposed on the side of the encapsulation layer 6 away from the first support layer 1. The polarizing layer 8 is disposed on the side of the touch layer 7 away from the first support layer 1 and is bonded to the touch layer 7 by pressure-sensitive adhesive. The cover plate 9 is disposed on the side of the polarizing layer 8 away from the first support layer 1. The bending area 300 of the display panel contains multiple layers of film that are prone to plastic deformation. These layers include a polarizer layer 8, a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, a flexible substrate 3, and a first support layer 1. In particular, the flexible substrate 3 and the first support layer 1 will exhibit significant deformation, resulting in creases on the display panel and affecting the viewing experience.

[0085] Based on this, the present disclosure provides a display panel. As shown in Figures 4 to 25, the display panel has a bending region 300 extending along the bending axis p. The display panel includes a first support layer 1, a driving circuit layer 4, a light-emitting layer 5, and an encapsulation layer 6. The material of the first support layer 1 is glass. The driving circuit layer 4 is disposed on one side of the first support layer 1. The light-emitting layer 5 is disposed on the side of the driving circuit layer 4 away from the first support layer 1. The encapsulation layer 6 is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1. A first groove 101 is provided in the area of ​​the first support layer 1 located within the bending region 300.

[0086] The first support layer 1 is made of glass, and the driving circuit layer 4 is directly disposed on the first support layer 1. Glass has a small deformation space and is not prone to plastic deformation, which can reduce the probability of creases forming in the first support layer 1 to a certain extent. Removing the flexible substrate 3 and the second support layer 2 between the first support layer 1 and the driving circuit layer 4 avoids creases forming in the flexible substrate 3 and the second support layer 2, and also prevents impurities in the flexible substrate 3 from affecting the characteristics of the driving circuit layer 4, thereby improving the image retention phenomenon of the display panel during continuous illumination. A first groove 101 is provided in the area of ​​the first support layer 1 within the bending region 300, reducing the thickness of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300, which facilitates bending of the first support layer 1 and prevents breakage during bending. Therefore, this display panel ensures bending reliability while having a low probability of creases and is less prone to image retention during continuous illumination.

[0087] The display panel involved in the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to specific examples.

[0088] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the display panel generally includes a first support layer 1. The material of the first support layer 1 is glass, specifically ultra-thin glass. A flexible substrate 3 is disposed away from the first support layer 1. A driving circuit layer 4 is disposed on the side of the flexible substrate 3 away from the first support layer 1. A light-emitting layer 5 is disposed on the side of the driving circuit layer 4 away from the first support layer 1. The light-emitting layer 5 exposes the edge area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. An encapsulation layer 6 is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1. The encapsulation layer 6 covers the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1 and the exposed area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. A touch layer 7 is disposed on the side of the encapsulation layer 6 away from the first support layer 1. A polarizing layer 8 is disposed on the side of the touch layer 7 away from the first support layer 1. The polarizing layer 8 is bonded to the touch layer 7 by pressure-sensitive adhesive. A cover plate 9 is disposed on the side of the polarizing layer 8 away from the first support layer 1.

[0089] When the material of the first support layer 1 is glass, the thickness of the first support layer 1 is 0.01-0.3mm, thereby ensuring that bending functionality can be achieved. In this embodiment, the thickness of the first support layer 1 can be 0.01mm, 0.015mm, 0.02mm, 0.025mm, or 0.03mm. Due to the difference in strength and toughness, the theoretical deformation space provided to the first support layer 1 is relatively small, thus reducing the theoretical deformation of the first support layer 1, which can reduce creases to a certain extent and improve the screen user experience. In addition, the ultra-thin glass itself has a multi-layer strength protection structure, which can improve the strength and durability of the display panel.

[0090] As shown in Figures 6 to 10, since the first support layer 1 of the glass has high strength and toughness, it is prone to breakage during bending. Therefore, a first groove 101 can be provided in the region of the first support layer 1 located within the bending area 300. The extension direction of the first groove 101 is the same as the extension direction of the bending area 300, and the first groove 101 is located on the side of the first support layer 1 away from the flexible substrate 3. The first groove 101 reduces the thickness of the first support layer 1 in the bending area 300, which is beneficial for bending the first support layer 1, avoids breakage of the first support layer 1 during bending, and does not weaken the strength of the non-bending area of ​​the first support layer 1. The cross-sectional shape of the first groove 101 can be rectangular, that is, the width of the first groove 101 remains constant along the direction away from the driving circuit layer 4. The cross-sectional shape of the first groove 101 can also be trapezoidal, that is, the width of the first groove 101 gradually increases along the direction away from the driving circuit layer 4.

[0091] Regardless of whether the cross-sectional shape of the first groove 101 is trapezoidal or rectangular, the first corner θ1 formed between the side surface and the bottom surface of the first groove 101 through corresponding process adjustments is an arc angle, and the second corner θ2 formed between the side surface of the first groove 101 and the side of the first support layer 1 away from the drive circuit layer 4 is an arc angle. This avoids the first support layer 1 from cracking when bent due to the first corner θ1 and the second corner θ2 being sharp corners.

[0092] In this embodiment, the total thickness h of the first support layer 1 is 0.5t, the depth of the first groove 101 is the thickness range b, and the size of b is 0.2t-0.47t. The remaining thickness a is between the bottom surface of the first groove 101 and the side of the first groove 101 near the driving circuit layer 4, and the size of a is 0.03t-0.3t. Alternatively, the first support layer 1 can be thinned by 0.03t-0.44t, at which point the thickness range b becomes 0.03t-0.3t. In this embodiment, the thickness range b can be 0.2t, 0.25t, 0.3t, 0.4t, or 0.47t, and the remaining thickness a can be 0.03t, 0.1t, 0.15t, 0.2t, or 0.3t. The width of the first groove 101 is greater than or equal to 1.2 times the width of the bending area 300. Specifically, the width of the first groove 101 can be 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 1.7 times or 2 times the width of the bending area 300.

[0093] Figure 11 shows the wrinkling of the display panel in Figure 10 after being subjected to external force. As can be seen, removing the second support layer 2 between the flexible substrate 3 and the driving circuit layer 4 can prevent the second support layer 2 from forming creases, thus effectively reducing the creases of the display panel and improving the screen viewing effect.

[0094] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the display panel generally includes a first support layer 1. The material of the first support layer 1 is glass, specifically ultra-thin glass. A driving circuit layer 4 is provided on one side of the first support layer 1. A light-emitting layer 5 is provided on the side of the driving circuit layer 4 away from the first support layer 1, with the light-emitting layer 5 exposing the edge area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. An encapsulation layer 6 is provided on the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1, covering the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1 and the exposed area of ​​the driving circuit layer 4. A touch layer 7 is provided on the side of the encapsulation layer 6 away from the first support layer 1. A polarizing layer 8 is provided on the side of the touch layer 7 away from the first support layer 1, and the polarizing layer 8 is bonded to the touch layer 7 with pressure-sensitive adhesive. A cover plate 9 is provided on the side of the polarizing layer 8 away from the first support layer 1.

[0095] The driving circuit layer 4 is formed directly on the first support layer 1, completely avoiding the creases caused by plastic deformation of the easily deformable flexible substrate 3 and the second support layer 2 under external force, greatly improving the user experience. It is worth noting that since the flexible substrate 3 is removed from the display panel, the defects of the flexible substrate 3 can be avoided from affecting the driving circuit layer 4 during the manufacturing process, thereby obtaining a better hysteresis curve for the driving circuit layer 4. Specifically, this means that the image retention phenomenon after viewing the same image for a long time is weakened.

[0096] As shown in Figure 14, to further enhance the strength of the first support layer 1, the surface of the first groove 101 needs to be coated for protection. Specifically, a first cover layer 10 is provided on the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4, covering the surface of the first groove 101. The first cover layer 10 can be made of ink, such as epoxy or polymethyl methacrylate. As shown in Figure 15, black filler can also be mixed with ink to create an opaque first cover layer 10, thereby expanding the coverage area of ​​the first cover layer 10. This covers the surface of the first groove 101 and the planar area surrounding the first groove 101 on the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4. While strengthening the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4, this also blocks light from the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4, reducing the impact of external light on the driving circuit layer 4 and resulting in more stable circuit performance and better image quality for the display panel. The thickness of the first cover layer 10 can be 10-100 μm. In this embodiment, the thickness of the first cover layer 10 can be 10μm, 30μm, 50μm, 70μm or 100μm.

[0097] To further increase the strength and recoverability of the first support layer 1 in the bending zone 300, a first filling portion 12 can be provided in the first groove 101. The material of the first filling portion 12 is a shape memory polymer, which can be a polyester polymer such as polyurethane; no specific limitation is made here. Whether the first covering layer 10 is only provided on the surface of the first groove in Figure 14, or the first covering layer 10 covers the surface of the first groove and the planar area around the first groove 101 on the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4 in Figure 15, the first filling portion 12 can be provided on the side of the first covering layer 10 away from the driving circuit layer 4, as shown in Figure 16. As shown in Figure 17, the first filling portion 12 can also be provided to directly contact the first support layer.

[0098] As shown in Figure 18, to ensure the bendability of the display panel, the cover plate 9 can also be made of ultra-thin glass. To achieve flexible bending of the cover plate 9, a second groove 91 is provided on the side of the cover plate 9 near the first support layer 1, and the orthographic projection of the second groove 91 on the cover plate 9 is located within the bending area 300. As shown in Figure 19, a second cover layer 11 can also be provided on the side of the cover plate 9 near the driving circuit layer 1, covering the surface of the second groove 91. Since the cover plate 9 is also at risk of breakage during the bending process of the display panel, a second filling part 13 can be provided in the second groove 91, and the second filling part 13 is located on the side of the second cover layer 11 near the driving circuit layer 4. As shown in Figure 20, the second filling part 13 can also be in direct contact with the surface of the second groove 91. The material of the second filling part 13 is a shape memory polymer to enhance the strength of the cover plate 9 while achieving flexible bending. It should be noted that the shape memory polymer can be a polyester polymer such as polyurethane; this is only an example and is not a specific limitation.

[0099] As shown in Figure 20, the first filling part 12 may not be provided in the first groove 101, and the second filling part 13 may be provided only in the second groove 91. The second filling part 13 can play a stress buffering role, preventing the cover plate from breaking due to stress concentration during bending.

[0100] As shown in Figures 21 to 23, for a display panel with a polarizing layer 8, during the bending process of the display panel, regardless of whether the first filling part 12 is provided in the first groove 101 on the first support layer 1, whether the second groove 91 is provided on the cover plate 9, and whether the second filling part 13 is provided in the second groove 91, the second support layer 2 and the flexible substrate 3, which are prone to plastic deformation of the display panel, are removed, and the probability of the display panel producing creases is greatly reduced.

[0101] The above embodiments are applicable not only to display panels with polarizing layer 8, but also to display panels without polarizing layer 8. As shown in Figures 24 and 25, the polarizing layer 8 between the touch layer 7 and the cover plate 9 can be removed, and a color filter layer 14 can be provided between the touch layer 7 and the encapsulation layer 6. Compared with the polarizing layer 8, the color filter layer 14 is less prone to plastic deformation, so the probability of creases in the display panel with this structure is lower. It can be understood that by structurally designing the display panel, the second support layer 2, flexible substrate 3, polarizing layer 8, and pressure-sensitive adhesive, which are prone to plastic deformation and cause creases, are eliminated, completely avoiding the possibility of plastic deformation of the display panel under stress, and essentially achieving a crease-free flexible display panel.

[0102] This disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a display panel. As shown in Figures 26 to 34, the method may include:

[0103] Step S10: Provide a first support layer 1, wherein the material of the first support layer 1 is glass;

[0104] Step S20: A driving circuit layer 4 is formed on the first support layer 1;

[0105] Step S30: A light-emitting layer 5 is formed on the side of the driving circuit layer 4 away from the first support layer 1;

[0106] Step S40: An encapsulation layer 6 is formed on the side of the light-emitting layer 5 away from the first support layer 1;

[0107] In step S50, a first groove 101 is formed in the region of the first support layer 1 located within the bending area 300 along the extension direction of the bending axis of the display panel.

[0108] By removing the flexible substrate 3 and the second support layer 2 between the first support layer 1 and the driving circuit layer 4, and directly placing the driving circuit layer 4 on the first support layer 1, the deformation space of the glass is smaller, and it is less prone to plastic deformation. This avoids creases in the flexible substrate 3 and the second support layer 2, and to a certain extent reduces the probability of creases in the first support layer 1. At the same time, it avoids impurities in the flexible substrate 3 from affecting the characteristics of the driving circuit layer 4, thereby improving the image retention phenomenon of the display panel during continuous illumination. The area of ​​the first support layer 1 within the bending region 300 is provided with a first groove 101, which reduces the thickness of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300, which is beneficial for bending the first support layer 1 and avoids breakage during bending, while not weakening the strength of the first support layer 1 in the non-bending region.

[0109] In step S50, forming a first groove 101 in the region of the first support layer 1 located within the bending area 300 along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel may include:

[0110] A laser beam is applied uniformly along the bending axis in the bending region 300 of the first support layer 1, thereby altering the physical properties of the first support layer 1 located within the bending region 300.

[0111] Figures 27 and 28 are schematic diagrams of laser modulation of the bending region 300 along the bending axis using a laser beam. The total thickness of the first support layer 1 is 0.5t, and the thickness range b affected by the laser beam is 0.03t-0.3t. The purpose is to change the physical properties of the glass within this thickness range b, making it easier to etch away in subsequent processes, thus forming a remaining thickness a of 0.03t-0.3t, thereby achieving the bending of the bending region 300. It should be noted that the remaining thickness a is the thickness of the first support layer 1 retained between the bottom surface of the first groove 101 and the side of the first groove 101 near the driving circuit layer 4.

[0112] The laser beam is characterized by its ability to bypass the surface of the first support layer 1 and directly act on a specific thickness range within it along the thickness direction. The beam width remains consistent with increasing distance, exhibiting almost no diffraction at short distances and self-recovering after passing through obstacles. Based on these characteristics, the glass within the dashed line range in Figures 27 and 28 can be laser-modulated. Specifically, the laser beam alters the molecular structure of the glass within thickness range b, degrading its physical and chemical properties and making it more susceptible to chemical reactions and removal.

[0113] As shown in Figure 27, the depth and shape of the laser beam depend on the shape of the first groove 101. When laser beams that are parallel to each other are used for laser modulation, by adjusting the size and position of the laser beam spot, it can be made to act accurately on the rectangular dashed line area shown in Figure 27, and to act uniformly along the bending area 300 of the entire first support layer 1, so that the physical properties of the glass in the bending area 300 within the thickness range b are changed.

[0114] As shown in Figure 28, when it is necessary to form a non-rectangular first groove 101, the position of the laser beam can be adjusted according to the shape of the first groove 101. When an irregular laser beam with parallel, equal height and depth gradually increasing from both sides to the middle is used to perform laser modulation on the bending area 300 of the first support layer 1 as shown in Figure 28, the physical properties of the glass in the corresponding irregular area can be changed, thereby forming a trapezoidal first groove 101. The corner between the side surface and the bottom surface of the first groove 101 is an arc angle.

[0115] It should be noted that the laser beam can be an infrared laser, an ultraviolet laser, or a CO2 laser, with a wavelength range of 750nm-1mm, and more specifically, a wavelength range of 750nm-2500nm. The width of the laser beam is greater than the width of the bending region 300; in this embodiment, the width of the laser beam is greater than 1.2 times the width of the bending region 300.

[0116] The first support layer 1 within the bending area 300 after the laser beam has acted is etched using an etching solution to form the first groove 101.

[0117] Figures 29 and 30 show the first groove 101 formed after wet etching of the first support layer 1 within the bending region 300 after laser beam treatment using an etching solution. The etching solution can be one or more strong acid or strong alkali solutions such as HF or KOH. As shown in Figures 27 to 30, before etching with the etching solution, it is not necessary to attach a protective film to the non-bending area around the bending region 300. Instead, the area of ​​the first support layer 1 within the bending region 300 and the non-bending area around the bending region 300 are etched simultaneously. While forming the first groove 101 within the bending region 300, the area around the bending region 300 is thinned, with thickness range c being 0.03t-0.44t, thickness range b being 0.03t-0.3t, and remaining thickness a being 0.03t-0.3t. In this embodiment, the remaining thickness a can be 0.01-0.3um.

[0118] In Figures 29 and 30, the remaining thickness 'a' represents the thickness of the first support layer 1 remaining in the bending region 300 after the physical action and etching by the laser beam. Thickness range 'b' represents the additional thickness of the first support layer 1 retained in the non-bending region compared to the bending region 300. This thickness range aims to achieve bending of the bending region 300 while minimizing the reduction in the overall strength of the display panel. In Figure 28, thickness range 'c' represents the thickness removed after simultaneous etching of both the bending region 300 and the non-bending region of the first support layer 1, used to reduce the overall thickness of the display panel. The width of the first groove 101 formed after laser modulation and etching is greater than the width of the bending region 300, enabling the bending of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300.

[0119] In step S50, forming a first groove 101 in the region of the first support layer 1 located within the bending area 300 along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel may include:

[0120] Photoresist 15 is coated on the non-bending area surrounding the bending area 300 of the first support layer 1.

[0121] As shown in Figures 31 and 32, the total thickness h of the first support layer 1 is 0.5t. The depth of action of the photoresist 15 on the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300, i.e., the thickness range b, is 0.2t-0.47t. The remaining thickness a of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300 is 0.03t-0.3t, thus achieving the bending of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300. Alternatively, the thickness range c of the first support layer 1 can be reduced as a whole, with c being 0.03t-0.44t, and then photoresist 15 can be applied to the non-bending region surrounding the bending region 300 of the first support layer 1. In this case, the thickness range b becomes 0.03t-0.3t. It is worth noting that the coverage area and shape, as well as the depth and shape of action of the photoresist 15, depend on the shape of the first groove 101. By applying photoresist 15 to the non-bending region, a corresponding pattern can be formed in the bending region 300 where photoresist 15 is not applied.

[0122] As shown in Figure 31, coating the non-bending area with photoresist 15 of uniform thickness can form a rectangular working area 151 of uniform depth in the bending area 300 without photoresist 15. As shown in Figure 32, coating the bending area 300 with photoresist 15 of unequal thickness can form irregularly shaped working areas 151 of varying depths in the bending area 300 without photoresist 15. The thickness of the irregularly shaped working areas 151 satisfies the following relationship: m = m1 - m2, where m is the thickness of the corresponding working area 151, m1 is the maximum thickness of the photoresist 15, and m2 is the thickness of the photoresist 15 at the working position.

[0123] The thickness of the photoresist 15 near the bending region 300 gradually decreases along the direction of the bending region 300, and the rate of thickness reduction gradually decreases. This means that the photoresist 15 near the bending region 300 can be coated in an arc shape. Therefore, the corresponding functional position of the non-uniform thickness photoresist 15 is also arc-shaped. This results in the first angle θ1 formed between the side surface and the bottom surface of the first groove 101 being an arc angle, and the second angle θ2 formed between the side surface of the first groove 101 and the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4 being an arc angle, as shown in Figure 34. The fact that both the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 are arc angles is beneficial for enhancing the strength of the first support layer 1.

[0124] The first groove 101 is formed by etching the bent area 300 not covered by photoresist 15 and the area with a thin layer of non-bent area coverage using an etching solution or etching gas.

[0125] After etching the uncovered photoresist 15 or the thinly covered photoresist 15 area of ​​the bending region 300 using an etching solution or a dry etching gas, a first groove 101 is formed. The total thickness h of the first support layer 1 is 0.5t, the thickness range b is 0.2t-0.47t, and the remaining thickness a of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300 is 0.03t-0.3t. The width of the first groove 101 is greater than the width of the bending region 300. Optionally, the width of the first groove 101 is greater than or equal to 1.2 times the width of the bending region 300. The etching solution can be one or more strong acid solutions or strong alkali solutions, such as HF or KOH, and the dry etching gas can be one or more gases such as Cl2, CF4, and SF6.

[0126] As shown in Figures 33 and 34, in order to further enhance the strength of the first support layer 1 after etching and thinning, the method may further include: forming a first cover layer 10 on the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4, the first cover layer 10 covering the surface of the first groove 101, and the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4 located in the planar region surrounding the first groove 101.

[0127] The first cover layer 10 can be ink, which can be made of materials such as epoxy or polymethyl methacrylate. Alternatively, black filler can be blended with the ink to enhance the first support layer 1 while simultaneously shielding the side of the first support layer 1 away from the driving circuit layer 4 from light, reducing the impact of external light on the driving circuit layer 4. This results in more stable circuit performance and better image quality. The thickness of the first cover layer 10 can be 10-100 μm.

[0128] As shown in Figure 35, to further increase the strength and recoverability of the first support layer 1 in the bending region 300, the method may further include: providing a first filling portion 12 within the first groove 101. The material of the first filling portion 12 may be a shape memory polymer, which may be a polyester polymer such as polyurethane. Referring to Figure 16, a cover plate 9 is formed on the side of the polarizing layer 8 away from the first support layer 1.

[0129] Finally, it should be noted that the width direction of the first groove 101 is the x-direction shown in Figures 6 and 8, and the thickness direction of the first groove 101 is the y-direction shown in Figures 6 and 8. The non-bending area refers to the area in the display area 100 and non-display area 200 other than the bending area 300.

[0130] This disclosure also provides a display device, which may include the display panel mentioned above in this disclosure. The specific structure and beneficial effects of the display panel have been described in detail above, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0131] It should be noted that, in addition to the display panel, the display device also includes other necessary components and parts, such as the casing, circuit board, power cord, etc. Those skilled in the art can make corresponding additions according to the specific usage requirements of the display device, which will not be elaborated here.

[0132] Display devices can be traditional electronic devices, such as mobile phones, computers, televisions, and video recorders, or emerging wearable devices, such as virtual reality devices and augmented reality devices, which will not be listed here.

[0133] It should be noted that the above embodiments are interconnected and can be combined to form other solutions. The solutions disclosed herein are not limited to those described in the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art will readily conceive of other embodiments of this disclosure upon considering the specification and practicing the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and embodiments are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel having a bending region along the extension direction of its bending axis, wherein, The display panel includes: A first support layer, wherein the material of the first support layer is glass; A driving circuit layer is disposed on one side of the first support layer; A light-emitting layer is disposed on the side of the driving circuit layer away from the first support layer; An encapsulation layer is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the first support layer; The first support layer has a first groove in the area within the bending zone.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the first groove is greater than or equal to the width of the bending area.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the first groove gradually increases in the direction away from the driving circuit layer.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the first groove remains constant along the direction away from the driving circuit layer.

5. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The first corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the bottom surface of the first groove is an arc angle, and the second corner formed between the side surface of the first groove and the side of the first support layer away from the driving circuit layer is an arc angle.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The first groove is located on the side of the first support layer away from the drive circuit layer.

7. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The first support layer has a first cover layer on the side away from the drive circuit layer, and the first cover layer at least covers the surface of the first groove.

8. The display panel according to claim 7, wherein, The first cover layer is opaque and covers the surface of the first groove, and the side of the first support layer away from the drive circuit layer is located in the planar area surrounding the first groove.

9. The display panel according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The first groove is provided with a first filling part, which is located on the side of the first cover layer away from the driving circuit layer, and the material of the first filling part is a shape memory polymer.

10. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The first groove is provided with a first filling part, which is in direct contact with the surface of the first groove. The material of the first filling part is a shape memory polymer.

11. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The thickness of the first support layer is 0.5t, and the thickness between the bottom surface of the first groove and the side of the first groove near the driving circuit layer is 0.03t-0.3t.

12. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel further includes a flexible substrate, a touch layer, and a cover plate. The flexible substrate is disposed between the first support layer and the driving circuit layer. The touch layer is disposed on the side of the encapsulation layer away from the first support layer. The cover plate is disposed on the side of the touch layer away from the first support layer.

13. The display panel according to claim 12, wherein, The display panel further includes a polarizing layer disposed between the touch layer and the cover plate, or the display panel further includes a color filter layer disposed between the touch layer and the encapsulation layer.

14. The display panel according to claim 12, wherein, The cover plate has a second groove on the side near the first support layer, and the orthographic projection of the second groove on the cover plate is located within the bending area.

15. The display panel according to claim 14, wherein, The cover plate has a second covering layer on the side near the drive circuit layer, and the second covering layer covers the surface of the second groove.

16. The display panel according to claim 15, wherein, The second groove is provided with a second filling part, which is located on the side of the second cover layer near the driving circuit layer. The material of the second filling part is a shape memory polymer.

17. The display panel according to claim 14, wherein, The second groove is provided with a second filling part, which is in direct contact with the surface of the second groove. The material of the first filling part is a shape memory polymer.

18. A method for manufacturing a display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The method includes: A first support layer is provided, wherein the material of the first support layer is glass; A driving circuit layer is formed on the first support layer; A light-emitting layer is formed on the side of the driving circuit layer away from the first support layer; An encapsulation layer is formed on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the first support layer; A first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, along the extension direction of the bending axis of the display panel.

19. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 18, wherein, Along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel, a first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, including: A laser beam is used to uniformly act on the bending area of ​​the first support layer along the extension direction of the bending axis, thereby changing the physical properties of the first support layer located in the bending area. The first support layer in the bending area after the laser beam has acted is etched using an etching solution to form a first groove.

20. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 19, wherein, The width of the laser beam is greater than or equal to 1.2 times the width of the bending region.

21. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 19, wherein, The first support layer in the bending area after laser beam action is etched using an etching solution to form a first groove, including: The first support layer is simultaneously etched using an etching solution in the area within the bending region and the non-bending region surrounding the bending region, forming a first groove within the bending region while thinning the area surrounding the bending region.

22. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 18, wherein, Along the extending direction of the bending axis of the display panel, a first groove is formed in the region of the first support layer located within the bending area, including: Photoresist is coated on the area surrounding the bending region of the first support layer; The first groove is formed by etching the area covered by the photoresist but not by the bending area, and the area covered by the non-bending area around the bending area, using an etching solution or etching gas.

23. A display device, wherein, Includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

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