Display device and method for manufacturing same

Abstract

This display device includes: a display module including a non-folding area and a folding area arranged in a first direction; and a support plate including a folding part overlapping the folding area, wherein an opening extending in a second direction crossing the first direction is defined in the folding part, the opening includes a first opening defined in the lower surface of the folding part and a second opening defined on the first opening, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other.

Description

Display device and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0002] Electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation systems, and smart televisions that provide images to users include display devices for displaying images. The display devices generate images and provide them to users through a display screen.

[0003] With recent technological advancements in display devices, various forms of display devices are being developed. For example, various flexible display devices that can be curved, folded, or rolled are being developed. Flexible display devices that can be transformed into various shapes are easy to carry and enhance user convenience.

[0004] Among flexible display devices, a foldable display device folds along a folding axis extending in one direction. The foldable display device includes a folding region that bends during the folding operation and a flat non-folding region. The folding region can bend to have a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0005] Because the folding area is flexible, it can easily deform and become damaged by external impacts. Therefore, the development of display devices capable of improving the impact resistance of the folding area is required.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device including a folding area with improved impact resistance and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display module including a non-folding area and a folding area arranged in a first direction, and a support plate including a folding part overlapping the folding area, wherein an opening is defined in the folding part and extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the opening includes a first opening defined on a lower surface of the folding part and a second opening defined on the first opening, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0008] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display module including a non-folding area and a folding area arranged in a first direction, and a support plate including a folding part overlapping the folding area, wherein an opening is defined in the folding part extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the opening includes a first opening defined in a lower surface of the folding part and a second opening defined in an upper surface of the folding part, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other, and in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions, a first depth of the first opening and a second depth of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0009] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display module including a non-folding area and a folding area arranged in a first direction, and a support plate including a folding part overlapping the folding area, wherein an opening is defined in the folding part extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the opening includes a first opening defined in a lower surface of the folding part and a second opening defined in an upper surface of the folding part, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other, and in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions, a first depth of the first opening and a second depth of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0010] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display device including a display module and an electronic module controlling an operation of the display module, wherein the display device includes a support plate including a display module including a non-folding area and a folding area arranged in a first direction and a folding part overlapping the folding area, wherein an opening is defined in the folding part and extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the opening includes a first opening defined on a lower surface of the folding part and a second opening defined on the first opening, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0011] A support plate according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a folding portion and a non-folding portion adjacent to the folding portion, wherein an opening is defined in the folding portion and extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the opening includes a first opening defined on a lower surface of the folding portion and a second opening defined on the first opening, and in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0012] A method for manufacturing a support plate according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of preparing a support plate and a photoresist having an opening defined on a lower surface of the support plate and overlapping a folding portion of the support plate, a step of supplying an etching solution to the lower surface of the folding portion through the opening of the photoresist to define a first opening on the lower surface of the folding portion, and a step of irradiating a laser beam from below the folding portion toward the first opening to define a second opening penetrating an upper surface of the folding portion, wherein in the second direction, a first length of the first opening and a second length of the second opening may be different from each other, and in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions, a first depth of the first opening and a second depth of the second opening may be different from each other.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, first openings may be defined on the lower surface of a curved portion of a folding portion of a support plate that supports a display module, and second openings having a smaller width than the first openings may be defined on the upper surface of the curved portion. The flexibility of the curved portion may be increased by the first openings having a larger width, and the support capacity of the curved portion may be improved by the second openings having a smaller width.

[0014] Accordingly, when an external impact is applied toward the folding area of ​​the display module overlapping the curved portion on the display module, deformation of the folding area can be prevented by the curved portion with improved support. As a result, the impact resistance of the display device can be improved.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Fig. 2 is a drawing showing the folding state of the display device shown in Fig. 1.

[0017] Fig. 3 is a plan view of a display panel used in the display device illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section of the display panel illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a display panel corresponding to one pixel in FIG. 4 in more detail.

[0020] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device corresponding to the line I-I' shown in Fig. 3.

[0021] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅱ-Ⅱ' shown in Figure 3.

[0022] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the line Ⅲ-Ⅲ' shown in Fig. 3, and is a drawing showing a state in which the bending area is bent.

[0023] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing the folding state of the display device shown in Fig. 6.

[0024] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the first support plate illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0025] Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the area (AA) shown in Fig. 10 when viewed from below at the first support plate shown in Fig. 10.

[0026] Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of the area (AA) shown in Fig. 10 when viewed from above at the first support plate shown in Fig. 10.

[0027] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅳ-Ⅳ' shown in Figure 12.

[0028] Figure 14a is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in Figure 13.

[0029] Fig. 14b is a drawing showing a structure in which the first depth and the second depth illustrated in Fig. 14a are set differently from Fig. 14a.

[0030] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the V-V' line shown in Figure 12.

[0031] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a first support plate having openings defined as shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 and a display module attached to the first support plate.

[0032] Fig. 17 is a drawing illustrating a first comparison support plate (PLT1') according to a comparative example.

[0033] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the results of a ball drop test for a comparison display device including the display device of the present invention and the first comparison support plate shown in FIG. 17.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing the results of an artificial nail pressure test for a comparative display device including the display device of the present invention and the first comparative support plate shown in FIG. 17.

[0035] FIG. 20 is a graph showing the results of a ball drop test and an artificial nail pressure test for a comparative display device performed while varying the width of the openings shown in FIG. 17.

[0036] FIG. 21 is a table showing the results of a ball drop test and an artificial nail pressure test for a display device performed while varying the ratio of the first openings and the second openings of the first support plate of the present invention.

[0037] FIGS. 22A to 22D are drawings illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 23 is a drawing showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIGS. 24 to 28 are drawings showing configurations of first support plates according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 30 is a drawing showing the configuration of an opening according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅵ-Ⅵ' shown in Figure 30.

[0043] FIGS. 32 and 33 are drawings showing the configuration of openings according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 34 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device including a display module and a support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 36 is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in Figure 27.

[0047] FIG. 37 is a drawing showing the results of a ball drop test for display devices including the support plates shown in FIGS. 13 and 27 and a comparison display device including the first comparison support plate shown in FIG. 17.

[0048] FIG. 38a is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 38b is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in Figure 38a.

[0050] FIG. 39 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] “And / or” includes any combination of one or more of the associated constructs that can be defined.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 described based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

[0056] 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 relevant technical context, and unless explicitly defined herein, they should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0057] 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.

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0059] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0060] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a drawing illustrating a folding state of the display device illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 1, a display device (DD) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a rectangular shape having long sides extending in a first direction (DR1) and short sides extending in a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display device (DD) may have various shapes, such as circular and polygonal. The display device (DD) may be a flexible display device.

[0062] Hereinafter, a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) is defined as a third direction (DR3). In this specification, "when viewed in a plane" may be defined as a state viewed from the third direction (DR3). In addition, the meaning of "overlapping" in this specification may refer to a state in which the configurations are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in a plane.

[0063] The display device (DD) may include a folding area (FA) and a plurality of non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2). The non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) may include a first non-folding area (NFA1) and a second non-folding area (NFA2). The folding area (FA) may be positioned between the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2). The first non-folding area (NFA1), the folding area (FA), and the second non-folding area (NFA2) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1).

[0064] By way of example, one folding area (FA) and two non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) are illustrated, but the number of folding areas (FA) and non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) is not limited thereto. For example, the display device (DD) may include a plurality of non-folding areas greater than two and a plurality of folding areas arranged between the non-folding areas.

[0065] The upper surface of the display device (DD) can be defined as a display surface (DS) and can have a plane defined by a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). Images (IM) generated in the display device (DD) can be provided to a user through the display surface (DS).

[0066] A display surface (DS) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may display an image, and the non-display area (NDA) may not display an image. The non-display area (NDA) may define a border of the display device (DD) that surrounds the display area (DA) and is printed in a predetermined color.

[0067] A display device (DD) may include a plurality of sensors (SN) and at least one camera (CM). The sensors (SN) and the camera (CM) may be adjacent to a border of the display device (DD). The sensors (SN) and the camera (CM) may be arranged in a display area (DA) adjacent to a non-display area (NDA). The sensors (SN) and the camera (CM) may be arranged in a first non-folding area (NFA1), but the arrangement positions of the sensors (SN) and the camera (CM) are not limited thereto.

[0068] For example, the sensors (SN) may be proximity sensors, but the type of sensors (SN) is not limited thereto. The camera (CM) can capture external images.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, the display device (DD) may be a foldable display device (DD) that can be folded or unfolded. For example, the display device (DD) may be folded by bending the folding area (FA) about a folding axis (FX) parallel to the second direction (DR2).

[0070] When the display device (DD) is folded, the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding areas (NFA2) face each other, and the display device (DD) can be in-folded so that the display surface (DS) is not exposed to the outside. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the display device (DD) can also be out-folded so that the display surface (DS) is exposed to the outside based on the folding axis (FX).

[0071] Fig. 3 is a plan view of a display panel used in the display device illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, the display device (DD) may include a display panel (DP), a scan driver (SDV), a data driver (DDV), and an emission driver (EDV).

[0073] The display panel (DP) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be an emissive display panel. For example, the display panel (DP) may be an organic light-emitting display panel or an inorganic light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the inorganic light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, and the like. Hereinafter, the display panel (DP) is described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

[0074] The display panel (DP) may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel (DP) may include a plurality of electronic elements arranged on a flexible substrate. The display panel (DP) may extend longer in the first direction (DR1) than in the second direction (DR2). The display panel (DP) may have a plane defined by the first and second directions (DR1, DR2).

[0075] The display panel (DP) may include a first area (AA1), a second area (AA2), and a bending area (BA) disposed between the first area (AA1) and the second area (AA2). The bending area (BA) may extend in a second direction (DR2), and the first area (AA1), the bending area (BA), and the second area (AA2) may be arranged in the first direction (DR1).

[0076] The first region (AA1) may have long sides extending in the first direction (DR1) and opposing each other in the second direction (DR2). The lengths of the bending region (BA) and the second region (AA2) with respect to the second direction (DR2) may be shorter than the length of the first region (AA1).

[0077] The first area (AA1) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may surround the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may be an area that displays an image, and the non-display area (NDA) may be an area that does not display an image. The second area (AA2) and the bending area (BA) may be areas that do not display an image. Sensors (SN) and a camera (CM) may be arranged in the display area (DA).

[0078] The first area (AA1) may include a first non-folding area (NFA1), a second non-folding area (NFA2), and a folding area (FA) between the first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2). The first non-folding area (NFA1), the folding area (FA), and the second non-folding area (NFA2) of the display panel (DP) may correspond to the first non-folding area (NFA1), the folding area (FA), and the second non-folding area (NFA2) of the display device (DD) illustrated in FIG. 1, respectively.

[0079] A 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 first power line (PL1), a second power line (PL2), a plurality of connection lines (CNL), and a plurality of pads (PD). m and n are natural numbers. The pixels (PX) may be arranged in a display area (DA) and connected to the scan lines (SL1 to SLm), the data lines (DL1 to DLn), and the light-emitting lines (EL1 to ELm).

[0080] The scan driver (SDV) and the emission driver (EDV) may be arranged in the non-display area (NDA). The scan driver (SDV) and the emission driver (EDV) may be arranged in the non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the long sides of the first area (AA1), respectively. The data driver (DDV) may be arranged in the second area (AA2). The data driver (DDV) may be manufactured in the form of an integrated circuit chip and mounted on the second area (AA2).

[0081] The scan lines (SL1 to SLm) may extend in a second direction (DR2) and be connected to a scan driver (SDV). The data lines (DL1 to DLn) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be connected to a data driver (DDV) via a bending area (BA). The light-emitting lines (EL1 to ELm) may extend in a second direction (DR2) and be connected to an light-emitting driver (EDV).

[0082] The first power line (PL1) may extend in the first direction (DR1) and be positioned in the non-display area (NDA). The first power line (PL1) may be positioned between the display area (DA) and the light emitting driver (EDV). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first power line (PL1) may also be positioned between the display area (DA) and the scan driver (SDV).

[0083] The first power line (PL1) can extend to the second area (AA2) via the bending area (BA). The first power line (PL1) can extend toward the lower end of the second area (AA2) when viewed in plan view. The first power line (PL1) can receive a first voltage.

[0084] The second power line (PL2) may be arranged in a non-display area (NDA) facing the second area (AA2) with the non-display area (NDA) and the display area (DA) adjacent to the long sides of the first area (AA1) interposed therebetween. The second power line (PL2) may be arranged on the outer side relative to the scan driver (SDV) and the emission driver (EDV).

[0085] The second power line (PL2) can extend to the second area (AA2) via the bending area (BA). The second power line (PL2) can extend in the first direction (DR1) in the second area (AA2) with the data driver (DDV) interposed therebetween. The second power line (PL2) can extend toward the lower end of the second area (AA2) when viewed in plan view.

[0086] The second power line (PL2) can receive a second voltage having a lower level than the first voltage. For convenience of explanation, the connection relationship is not shown, but the second power line (PL2) extends to the display area (DA) and is connected to the pixels (PX), and the second voltage can be provided to the pixels (PX) through the second power line (PL2).

[0087] The connection lines (CNL) can extend in the second direction (DR2) and be arranged in the first direction (DR1). The connection lines (CNL) can be connected to the first power line (PL1) and the pixels (PX). A first voltage can be applied to the pixels (PX) through the first power line (PL1) and the connection lines (CNL) that are connected to each other.

[0088] The first control line (CSL1) may be connected to the scanning driver (SDV) and may extend toward the bottom of the second area (AA2) via the bending area (BA). The second control line (CSL2) may be connected to the emission driver (EDV) and may extend toward the bottom of the second area (AA2) via the bending area (BA). The data driver (DDV) may be arranged between the first control line (CSL1) and the second control line (CSL2).

[0089] When viewed on a plane, the pads (PD) may be arranged adjacent to the bottom of the second area (AA2). The data driver (DDV), the first power line (PL1), the second power line (PL2), the first control line (CSL1), and the second control line (CSL2) may be connected to the pads (PD).

[0090] The data lines (DL1 to DLn) can be connected to corresponding pads (PD) via a data driver (DDV). For example, the data lines (DL1 to DLn) can be connected to the data driver (DDV), and the data driver (DDV) can be connected to pads (PD) corresponding to the data lines (DL1 to DLn), respectively.

[0091] The display device (DD) may include a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to pads (PD). Connection pads (PCB-PD) may be arranged on the printed circuit board (PCB), and the connection pads (PCB-PD) may be connected to the pads (PD).

[0092] A timing controller (not shown) may be disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB). The timing controller may be connected to pads (PD) through the printed circuit board. The timing controller may control the operation of a scan driver (SDV), a data driver (DDV), and an emission driver (EDV). The timing controller may generate a scan control signal, a data control signal, and an emission control signal in response to control signals received from an external source.

[0093] The scan control signal can be provided to the scan driver (SDV) via the first control line (CSL1). The emission control signal can be provided to the emission driver (EDV) via the second control line (CSL2). The data control signal can be provided to the data driver (DDV). The timing controller can receive image signals from the outside, convert the data format of the image signals to conform to the interface specifications with the data driver (DDV), and provide the converted data to the data driver (DDV).

[0094] The scan driver (SDV) can generate a plurality of scan signals in response to a scan control signal. The scan signals can be applied to the pixels (PX) through scan lines (SL1 to SLm). The scan signals can be applied to the pixels (PX) sequentially.

[0095] The data driver (DDV) can generate a plurality of data voltages corresponding to image signals in response to a data control signal. The data voltages can be applied to the pixels (PX) through data lines (DL1 to DLn). The emission driver (EDV) can generate a plurality of emission signals in response to an emission control signal. The emission signals can be applied to the pixels (PX) through emission lines (EL1 to ELm).

[0096] Pixels (PX) can receive data voltages in response to scanning signals. Pixels (PX) can display images by emitting light with a brightness corresponding to the data voltages in response to light emission signals. The light emission time of pixels (PX) can be controlled by the light emission signals.

[0097] A voltage generating unit (not shown) may be arranged on a printed circuit board (PCB). The voltage generating unit may be connected to pads (PD) through the printed circuit board. The voltage generating unit may generate a first voltage and a second voltage. The first voltage and the second voltage may be applied to a first power line (PL1) and a second power line (PL2), respectively.

[0098] Each pixel (PX) may include a light-emitting element. A first voltage may be applied to an anode of the light-emitting element, and a second voltage may be applied to a cathode of the light-emitting element. The light-emitting element may be operated by receiving the first voltage and the second voltage.

[0099] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section of the display panel illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0100] For example, FIG. 4 shows a cross-section of a display panel (DP) viewed from a first direction (DR1).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4, the display panel (DP) may include a substrate (SUB), a circuit element layer (DP-CL) disposed on the substrate (SUB), a display element layer (DP-OLED) disposed on the circuit element layer (DP-CL), a thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) disposed on the display element layer (DP-OLED), an input sensing unit (ISP) disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE), and an anti-reflection layer (RPL) disposed on the input sensing unit (ISP). The display element layer (DP-OLED) may be disposed on a display area (DA).

[0102] The substrate (SUB) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). The substrate (SUB) may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the substrate (SUB) may include polyimide (PI).

[0103] The circuit element layer (DP-CL) may include transistors. The display element layer (DP-OLED) may include light-emitting elements connected to the transistors. The pixels (PX) illustrated in FIG. 3 may include transistors and light-emitting elements.

[0104] A thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may be disposed on a circuit element layer (DP-CL) to cover a display element layer (DP-OLED). The thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may include an inorganic layer, an organic layer, and an inorganic layer sequentially stacked. The inorganic layers include inorganic materials and may protect pixels from moisture / oxygen. The organic layer includes organic materials and may protect pixels (PX) from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0105] The input sensing unit (ISP) may include multiple sensors (not shown) for detecting external input. The sensors may detect external input using a capacitive method. The external input may include various forms of input, such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure.

[0106] The input sensing unit (ISP) may be manufactured directly on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) during the manufacturing of the display panel (DP). However, this is not limited to the above, and the input sensing unit (ISP) may be manufactured as a separate panel from the display panel (DP) and attached to the display panel (DP) by an adhesive layer.

[0107] An anti-reflection layer (RPL) may be disposed on the input sensing portion (ISP). The anti-reflection layer (RPL) may be attached to the input sensing portion (ISP) by an adhesive layer (not shown). The anti-reflection layer (RPL) may be defined as an external light anti-reflection film. The anti-reflection layer (RPL) may reduce the reflectance of external light incident from the outside toward the display panel (DP).

[0108] If external light directed toward the display panel (DP) is reflected by the display panel (DP) and then re-exposed to an external user, the user may perceive the external light as a mirror. To prevent this phenomenon, for example, the anti-reflection layer (RPL) may include a plurality of color filters that display the same color as the pixels.

[0109] Color filters can filter external light to the same color as the pixels. In this case, the external light may not be visible to the user. However, the anti-reflection layer (RPL) may also include a phase retarder and / or a polarizer to reduce the reflectance of external light.

[0110] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a display panel corresponding to one pixel in FIG. 4 in more detail.

[0111] For example, in Fig. 5, the anti-reflection layer (RPL) is omitted.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel (DP) includes a pixel (PX), and the pixel (PX) may include a transistor (TR) and a light-emitting element (OLED). The light-emitting element (OLED) may include a first electrode (AE) (or anode), a second electrode (CE) (or cathode), a hole control layer (HCL), an electron control layer (ECL), and an emission layer (EML).

[0113] The transistor (TR) and the light-emitting element (OLED) may be arranged on the substrate (SUB). By way of example, one transistor (TR) is shown, but in practice, the pixel (PX) may include a plurality of transistors and at least one capacitor for driving the light-emitting element (OLED).

[0114] The display area (DA) may include an emissive area (PA) corresponding to each pixel (PX) and a non-emissive area (NPA) surrounding the emissive area (PA). A light-emitting element (OLED) may be disposed in the emissive area (PA).

[0115] A buffer layer (BFL) is disposed on a substrate (SUB), and the buffer layer (BFL) may be an inorganic layer. A semiconductor pattern (S, AT, D) of a transistor (TR) may be disposed on the buffer layer (BFL). The semiconductor pattern (S, AT, D) may include polysilicon, amorphous silicon, or a metal oxide.

[0116] The semiconductor pattern (S, AT, D) may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern (S, AT, D) may include a highly doped region and a lightly doped region. The highly doped region has a higher conductivity than the lightly doped region and may essentially function as the source and drain electrodes of the transistor (TR). The lightly doped region may essentially correspond to the active (or channel) portion of the transistor.

[0117] The semiconductor pattern (S, AT, D) may include a source (S), an active (AT), and a drain (D). The active (AT) may be disposed between the source (S) and the drain (D). A first insulating layer (INS1) may be disposed on the semiconductor pattern. A gate (G) of a transistor (TR) may be disposed on the first insulating layer (INS1). A second insulating layer (INS2) may be disposed on the gate (G). A third insulating layer (INS3) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (INS2).

[0118] The connection electrode (CNE) may include a first connection electrode (CNE1) and a second connection electrode (CNE2) to connect the transistor (TR) and the light-emitting element (OLED). The first connection electrode (CNE1) may be disposed on the third insulating layer (INS3) and may be connected to the drain (D) through a first contact hole (CH1) defined in the first to third insulating layers (INS1 to INS3).

[0119] A fourth insulating layer (INS4) may be disposed on the first connection electrode (CNE1). A fifth insulating layer (INS5) may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer (INS4). A second connection electrode (CNE2) may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer (INS5). The second connection electrode (CNE2) may be connected to the first connection electrode (CNE1) through a second contact hole (CH2) defined in the fourth and fifth insulating layers (INS4, INS5).

[0120] A sixth insulating layer (INS6) may be disposed on the second connecting electrode (CNE2). The layers from the buffer layer (BFL) to the sixth insulating layer (INS6) may be defined as a circuit element layer (DP-CL). The first insulating layer (INS1) to the sixth insulating layer (INS6) may be inorganic or organic layers.

[0121] A first electrode (AE) may be disposed on a sixth insulating layer (INS6). The first electrode (AE) may be connected to a second connection electrode (CNE2) through a third contact hole (CH3) defined in the sixth insulating layer (INS6). A pixel defining layer (PDL) having an opening (PX_OP) defined therein for exposing a predetermined portion of the first electrode (AE) may be disposed on the first electrode (AE) and the sixth insulating layer (INS6).

[0122] A hole control layer (HCL) may be disposed on the first electrode (AE) and the pixel defining layer (PDL). The hole control layer (HCL) may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0123] The emission layer (EML) may be disposed on the hole control layer (HCL). The emission layer (EML) may be disposed in an area corresponding to the opening (PX_OP). The emission layer (EML) may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material. The emission layer (EML) may generate light of any one of red, green, and blue.

[0124] An electron control layer (ECL) may be disposed on an emissive layer (EML) and a hole control layer (HCL). The electron control layer (ECL) may include an electron transport layer and an electron injection layer. The hole control layer (HCL) and the electron control layer (ECL) may be disposed commonly in the emissive area (PA) and the non-emissive area (NPA).

[0125] The second electrode (CE) may be disposed on the electronic control layer (ECL). The second electrode (CE) may be disposed commonly on the pixels (PX). The layer on which the light-emitting element (OLED) is disposed may be defined as a display element layer (DP-OLED).

[0126] A thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may be disposed on a second electrode (CE) to cover a pixel (PX). The thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may include a first encapsulation layer (EN1) disposed on the second electrode (CE), a second encapsulation layer (EN2) disposed on the first encapsulation layer (EN1), and a third encapsulation layer (EN3) disposed on the second encapsulation layer (EN2).

[0127] The first and third encapsulating layers (EN1, EN3) include an inorganic insulating layer and can protect the pixel (PX) from moisture / oxygen. The second encapsulating layer (EN2) includes an organic insulating layer and can protect the pixel (PX) from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0128] A first voltage may be applied to a first electrode (AE) through a transistor (TR), and a second voltage having a lower level than the first voltage may be applied to a second electrode (CE). Holes and electrons injected into the light-emitting layer (EML) combine to form excitons, and when the excitons transition to the ground state, the light-emitting element (OLED) may emit light.

[0129] The layer from the substrate (SUB) to the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) can be defined as a display panel (DP). An input sensing unit (ISP) can be placed on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE). The input sensing unit (ISP) can be manufactured directly on the upper surface of the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE).

[0130] A base layer (BS) may be disposed on a thin film encapsulation layer (TFE). The base layer (BS) may include an inorganic insulating layer. At least one inorganic insulating layer may be provided as the base layer (BS) on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE).

[0131] The input sensing unit (ISP) may include a first conductive pattern (CTL1) and a second conductive pattern (CTL2) disposed on the first conductive pattern (CTL1). The first conductive pattern (CTL1) may be disposed on a base layer (BS). A first insulating layer (TINS1) may be disposed on the first conductive pattern (CTL1) and the base layer (BS). The first insulating layer (TINS1) may include an inorganic insulating layer or an organic insulating layer.

[0132] A second conductive pattern (CTL2) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (TINS1). A second insulating layer (TINS2) may be disposed on the second conductive pattern (CTL2) and the first insulating layer (TINS1). The second insulating layer (TINS2) may include an organic insulating layer.

[0133] The first and second conductive patterns (CTL1, CTL2) may overlap the non-luminous area (NPA). Although not shown, the first and second conductive patterns (CTL1, CTL2) may be arranged on the non-luminous area (NPA) between the luminous areas (PA) and may have a mesh shape.

[0134] The first and second conductive patterns (CTL1, CTL2) may form sensors of the aforementioned input sensing unit (ISP). For example, the first and second conductive patterns (CTL1, CTL2) in a mesh shape may be separated from each other in a predetermined area to form sensors. A portion of the second conductive pattern (CTL2) may be connected to the first conductive pattern (CTL1).

[0135] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display device corresponding to the line I-I' shown in Fig. 3.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 6, a display device (DD) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a display module (DM) and a support member (SUP) disposed under the display module (DM). The display module (DM) may be a flexible display module. The display module (DM) may include a first non-folding area (NFA1), a folding area (FA), and a second non-folding area (NFA2) arranged in a first direction (DR1), similar to the display panel (DP). The support member (SUP) may be disposed under the display module (DM) to support the display module (DM).

[0137] Below, the detailed configurations of the display module (DM) and the support unit (SUP) will be described based on the flat state of the display device (DD).

[0138] A display module (DM) may include a display panel (DP), a panel cover layer (PCL), a panel protection layer (PPL), a barrier layer (BRL), and an adhesive layer (AL). The panel cover layer (PCL) may be disposed on the display panel (DP). The panel protection layer (PPL) and the barrier layer (BRL) may be disposed under the display panel (DP).

[0139] A panel cover layer (PCL) may be disposed on a display panel (DP) to protect the display panel (DP). The panel cover layer (PCL) may include a window, a window cover layer disposed on the window, and a hard coating layer disposed on the window cover layer. The window may protect the display panel (DP) from external scratches. The window may have optically transparent properties. The window may include, but is not limited to, glass, and may include a synthetic resin film.

[0140] A window protective layer may be disposed on the window. The window protective layer may comprise a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate. A hard coating layer may be disposed on the upper surface of the window protective layer.

[0141] Although not shown, adhesive layers are disposed between the window, the window protective layer, and the display panel (DP), and the window, the window protective layer, and the display panel (DP) can be bonded to each other by the adhesive layers.

[0142] A panel protection layer (PPL) may be disposed beneath a display panel (DP). The panel protection layer (PPL) may protect the lower portion of the display panel (DP). The panel protection layer (PPL) may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the panel protection layer (PPL) may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0143] A barrier layer (BRL) may be positioned beneath the panel protection layer (PPL). The barrier layer (BRL) can increase resistance to compressive force due to external pressure. Therefore, the barrier layer (BRL) can prevent deformation of the display panel (DP). The barrier layer (BRL) may include a flexible plastic material, such as polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0144] The barrier layer (BRL) may have a color that absorbs light. The barrier layer (BRL) may be black. In this case, when the display module (DM) is viewed from above, components positioned beneath the barrier layer (BRL) may not be visible.

[0145] Although not shown, adhesive layers are disposed between the display panel (DP), the panel protection layer (PPL), and the barrier layer (BRL), and the display panel (DP), the panel protection layer (PPL), and the barrier layer (BRL) can be bonded to each other by the adhesive layers.

[0146] In the third direction (DR3), the thickness of the panel cover layer (PCL) may be 100 to 120 micrometers (μm), preferably 111 micrometers (μm). In the third direction (DR3), the thickness of the display panel (DP) may be 55 to 67 micrometers (μm), preferably 61 micrometers (μm).

[0147] The thickness of the panel protection layer (PPL) in the third direction (DR3) may be 45 to 55 micrometers (μm), preferably 50 micrometers (μm). The thickness of the barrier layer (BRL) in the third direction (DR3) may be 32 to 38 micrometers (μm), preferably 35 micrometers (μm).

[0148] The support unit (SUP) may include a first support plate (PLT1), a cover layer (COV), and a second support plate (PLT2).

[0149] An adhesive layer (AL) may be disposed between the barrier layer (BRL) and the first support plate (PLT1). The barrier layer (BRL) and the first support plate (PLT1) may be bonded to each other by the adhesive layer (AL). As a result, the support portion (SUP) may be attached to the display module (DM).

[0150] A first support plate (PLT1) may be positioned below a display module (DM) to support the display module (DM). The first support plate (PLT1) may have greater rigidity than the display module (DM). A plurality of openings (OP) overlapping the folding area (FA) may be defined in the first support plate (PLT1).

[0151] The first support plate (PLT1) may include a metal material such as stainless steel. For example, the first support plate (PLT1) may include SUS 304, but is not limited thereto, and the first support plate (PLT1) may include various metal materials. Furthermore, the first support plate (PLT1) may also include a non-metal material such as glass or plastic.

[0152] The first support plate (PLT1) may include a first non-folding portion (NFP1), a folding portion (FP), and a second non-folding portion (NFP2). For example, the boundaries of the first non-folding portion (NFP1), the folding portion (FP), and the second non-folding portion (NFP2) are drawn as dotted lines on the first support plate (PLT1).

[0153] The first non-folding portion (NFP1), the folding portion (FP), and the second non-folding portion (NFP2) can be arranged in the first direction. The folding portion (FP) can be arranged between the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2). Openings (OP) can be defined in the folding portion (FP).

[0154] The first non-folding portion (NFP1) is positioned below the first non-folding area (NFA1) and can overlap with the first non-folding area (NFA1). The second non-folding portion (NFP2) is positioned below the second non-folding area (NFA2) and can overlap with the second non-folding area (NFA2). The folding portion (FP) is positioned below the folding area (FA) and can overlap with the folding area (FA). When the display device (DD) is folded, the folding portion (FP) can be folded. The folding state of the folding portion (FP) will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 9.

[0155] The folding portion (FP) may include a curved portion (CSP), a first extension portion (EX1), a second extension portion (EX2), a first reverse curvature portion (ICV1), and a second reverse curvature portion (ICV2). For example, the boundaries of the curved portion (CSP), the first extension portion (EX1), the second extension portion (EX2), the first reverse curvature portion (ICV1), and the second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) are illustrated as dotted lines on the first support plate (PLT1), and the drawing symbols are illustrated on the upper portion of the display module (DM) by extending the boundary dotted lines upwards, for convenience.

[0156] The curved portion (CSP), the first extension portion (EX1), the second extension portion (EX2), the first reverse curvature portion (ICV1), and the second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) can be arranged in the first direction (DR1). For example, the curved portion (CSP) can be arranged at the center of the folding portion (FP).

[0157] The curved portion (CSP) may be positioned between the first extension portion (EX1) and the second extension portion (EX2). Openings (OP) may be defined in the curved portion (CSP). The openings (OP) may be formed by penetrating portions of the curved portion (CSP) in a third direction (DR3). By defining the openings (OP) in the curved portion (CSP), the flexibility of the curved portion (CSP) may be increased. In this case, when the folding portion (FP) is folded, the curved portion (CSP) may be easily folded. The folding state of the curved portion (CSP) will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 9.

[0158] Between the lower surface and the upper surface of the first support plate (PLT1), the width of each of the openings (OP) defined from the lower surface of the first support plate (PLT1) to a predetermined height may be greater than the width of each of the openings (OP) defined from the predetermined height to the upper surface of the first support plate (PLT1). In Fig. 6, the width of each of the openings (OP) may be defined as a value measured in the first direction (DR1).

[0159] In Fig. 6, the openings (OP) are schematically illustrated so that only the difference in width is shown. For example, in Fig. 6, the inner surfaces of the first support plates (PLT1) defining the openings (OP) are illustrated to extend vertically in the third direction (DR3). Although Fig. 6 is illustrated in this way to illustrate a limited, narrow area (e.g., a curved portion (CSP)), the detailed shapes of the actual openings (OP) may be formed as curved surfaces and inclined surfaces. The shapes of these openings (OP) will be illustrated in greater detail and enlarged in Figs. 13 and 14 below.

[0160] To briefly explain the shape of the openings (OP), the inner surfaces of the folding portions (FP) defining the wide portions of the openings (OP) may substantially have a curved shape. Additionally, the inner surfaces of the folding portions (FP) defining the narrow portions of the openings (OP) may have an inclined surface.

[0161] The adhesive layer (AL) may not overlap the curved portion (CSP). That is, the adhesive layer (AL) may be opened in the area where it overlaps the curved portion (CSP).

[0162] The first extension portion (EX1) may be disposed between the first reverse curvature portion (ICV1) and the curved portion (CSP), and the second extension portion (EX2) may be disposed between the second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) and the curved portion (CSP). The first reverse curvature portion (ICV1) may be disposed between the first extension portion (EX1) and the first non-folding portion (NFP1). The second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) may be disposed between the second extension portion (EX2) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2).

[0163] The cover layer (COV) may be disposed under the first support plate (PLT1). The cover layer (COV) may be disposed under the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2) to overlap the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2).

[0164] The cover layer (COV) may not be positioned under the folding portion (FP). That is, the cover layer (COV) may be opened in an area overlapping the folding portion (FP). Accordingly, the cover layer (COV) may not be positioned under the curved portion (CSP). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the cover layer (COV) may be positioned under the curved portion (CSP) to cover the openings (OP).

[0165] The cover layer (COV) may have a lower elastic modulus than the first support plate (PLT1). For example, the cover layer (COV) may include thermoplastic polyurethane or rubber, but the material of the cover layer (COV) is not limited thereto. The cover layer (COV) may be manufactured in a sheet form and attached to the first support plate (PLT1).

[0166] A second support plate (PLT2) may be positioned under the first support plate (PLT1). The second support plate (PLT2) may overlap the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2), and may not overlap the folding portion (FP). Specifically, the second support plate (PLT2) may be positioned under the cover layer (COV) so as to overlap the first and second non-folding portions (NFP1, NFP2).

[0167] The second support plate (PLT2) may be more rigid than the display module (DM). The second support plate (PLT2) may include a metal such as a copper and nickel alloy, but is not limited thereto, and the second support plate (PLT2) may include various metal materials. The second support plate (PLT2) may have a heat dissipation function.

[0168] The second support plate (PLT2) may include a second-first support plate (PLT2-1) and a second-second support plate (PLT2-2) arranged in the first direction (DR1). The second-first support plate (PLT2-1) may be arranged below the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and may overlap the first non-folding portion (NFP1). The second-second support plate (PLT2-2) may be arranged below the second non-folding portion (NFP2) and may overlap the second non-folding portion (NFP2).

[0169] The second-first and second-second support plates (PLT2-1, PLT2-2) can supplement the support function of the first support plate (PLT1) that supports the display module (DM). For example, the second-first support plate (PLT2-1) can support the first non-folding area (NFA1), and the second-second support plate (PLT2-2) can support the second non-folding area (NFA2).

[0170] According to the above structure, the cover layer (COV) can be arranged between the first support plate (PLT1) and the second support plate (PLT2). Specifically, the cover layer (COV) can be arranged between the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second-first support plate (PLT2-1) and between the second non-folding portion (NFP2) and the second-second support plate (PLT2-2).

[0171] Although not shown, an adhesive layer is disposed between the cover layer (COV) and the second support plate (PLT2), and the cover layer (COV) and the second support plate (PLT2) can be bonded to each other by the adhesive layer.

[0172] The thickness of the first support plate (PLT1) in the third direction (DR3) may be greater than the thickness of the second support plate (PLT2). The thickness of the first support plate (PLT1) in the third direction (DR3) may be 90 to 110 micrometers (μm), preferably 100 micrometers (μm). The thickness of the second support plate (PLT2) in the third direction (DR3) may be 77 to 95 micrometers (μm), preferably 86 micrometers (μm). The thickness of the cover layer (COV) may be 14 to 18 micrometers (μm), preferably 16 micrometers (μm).

[0173] In the first direction (DR1), the first width (W1) of the opening (not shown) of the adhesive layer (AL) may be 12.95 mm. In the first direction (DR1), the second width (W2) of the area where the openings (OP) are formed may be 11.12 mm.

[0174] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅱ-Ⅱ' shown in Figure 3.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 7, a first hole (H1) and a second hole (H2) can be defined in the support (SUP) and the display module (DM).

[0176] The first hole (H1) may be defined from the second support plate (PLT2) to the display panel (DP). For example, the first hole (H1) may be defined in the second support plate (PLT2), the cover layer (COV), the first support plate (PLT1), the barrier layer (BRL), the panel protection layer (PPL), and the display panel (DP).

[0177] The second hole (H2) may be defined from the second support plate (PLT2) to the barrier layer (BRL). For example, the second hole (H2) may be defined in the second support plate (PLT2), the cover layer (COV), the first support plate (PLT1), and the barrier layer (BRL).

[0178] The aforementioned camera (CM) may be placed within the first hole (H1). The aforementioned sensor (SN) may be placed within the second hole (H2). An optical signal may be provided to the camera (CM) and the sensor (SN) through the first and second holes (H1, H2).

[0179] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the line Ⅲ-Ⅲ' shown in Fig. 3, and is a drawing showing a state in which the bending area is bent.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 8, the data drive unit (DDV) may be positioned on the second area (AA2). "Posted on the second area (AA2)" may refer to below the second area (AA2) based on the bending state of FIG. 8.

[0181] The data driver (DDV) may be defined as a driving IC. The bending area (BA) may be bent so that the second area (AA2) is positioned below the first area (AA1). Accordingly, the data driver (DDV) may be positioned below the first area (AA1). The bending area (BA) may be bent so as to be convex toward the outside of the display panel (DP). The bending area (BA) may be bent to have a predetermined curvature.

[0182] The panel protection layer (PPL) may not be positioned in an area overlapping the bending area (BA). Since the panel protection layer (PPL) is not positioned under the bending area (BA), the bending area (BA) may bend more easily. If the panel protection layer (PPL) is positioned also under the bending area (BA), the area where the bending area (BA) is positioned may become thicker, making bending of the bending area (BA) difficult.

[0183] A spacer (SPC) may be placed between the panel protection layer (PPL) and the second support plate (PLT2) on the second area (AA2).

[0184] The spacer (SPC) may be a double-sided tape. For example, the spacer (SPC) may include a base layer, such as a flexible polyethylene terephthalate, and an adhesive disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the base layer.

[0185] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing the folding state of the display device shown in Fig. 6.

[0186] For example, in Fig. 9, the display module (DM) is illustrated as a single layer. In addition, for convenience of explanation, the display module (DM) and the first support plate (PLT1), the second support plate (PLT2), the first and second wing plates (WPT1, WPT2), the first and second flat plates (PPT1, PPT2), the first and second sub-wing plates (SWPT1, SWPT2), and the center plate (CPT) are illustrated, and other components are omitted.

[0187] Referring to Fig. 9, the first support plate (PLT1) can be folded around the folding axis (FX). The first support plate (PLT1) can be folded into a dumbbell shape. By folding the first support plate (PLT1), the display module (DM) can be folded together with the first support plate (PLT1).

[0188] The first support plate (PLT1) can be folded by folding the folding portion (FP) around the folding axis (FX). When the folding portion (FP) is folded, the curved portion (CSP) can be bent to have a predetermined curvature. The curved portion (CSP) can be bent to have a predetermined radius of curvature (Rc). Depending on the folding of the folding portion (FP), the folding area (FA) can be folded.

[0189] The first reverse curvature portion (ICV1) can be bent in the opposite direction to the curved surface portion (CSP). The second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) can be bent in the opposite direction to the curved surface portion (CSP). The second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) can have a shape symmetrical to the first reverse curvature portion (ICV1).

[0190] When the folding portion (FP) is folded, the first and second non-folding portions (NFP1, NFP2) and the second-first and second-second support plates (PLT2-1, PLT2-2) can maintain a flat state. Accordingly, the first and second non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) can be maintained in a flat state by the first and second non-folding portions (NFP1, NFP2) and the second-first and second-second support plates (PLT2-1, PLT2-2).

[0191] When the folding portion (FP) is folded, the distance between the first non-folding portion (NFP1) and the second non-folding portion (NFP2) in the first direction (DR1) may be smaller than the diameter of a circle having a radius of curvature (Rc). According to this configuration, the first support plate (PLT1) can be folded into a dumbbell shape.

[0192] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the first support plate illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 10, the first support plate (PLT1) may include a first non-folding portion (NFP1), a folding portion (FP), and a second non-folding portion (NFP2) arranged in a first direction (DR1). The openings (OP) defined in the folding portion (FP) may be arranged in a grid shape. The arrangement of the openings (OP) will be illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 11 and 12 below.

[0194] A first hole (H1) and second holes (H2) may be defined in the first non-folding portion (NFP1). The first hole (H1) and the second holes (H2) may be adjacent to the edge of the first non-folding portion (NFP1). The first hole (H1) corresponds to the first hole (H1) illustrated in FIG. 7, and the aforementioned camera (CM) may be arranged in the first hole (H1). The second holes (H2) correspond to the second holes (H2) illustrated in FIG. 7, and the aforementioned sensors (SN) may be arranged in the second holes (H2).

[0195] Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the area (AA) illustrated in Fig. 10 when viewed from below on the first support plate illustrated in Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of the area (AA) illustrated in Fig. 10 when viewed from above on the first support plate illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the folding portion (FP) may include a first reverse curvature portion (ICV1), a first extension portion (EX1), a curved portion (CSP), a second extension portion (EX2), and a second reverse curvature portion (ICV2) arranged in a first direction (DR1).

[0197] A grid pattern can be defined for a curved surface (CSP). For example, openings (OPs) defined in a curved surface (CSP) can be arranged in a grid pattern to define a grid pattern of the curved surface (CSP).

[0198] The openings (OP) can be arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). The openings (OP) can extend longer in the second direction (DR2) than in the first direction (DR1). The openings (OP) arranged in the h-th column and the openings (OP) arranged in the (h+1)-th column can be arranged in an alternating manner. h is a natural number, and the columns can correspond to the second direction (DR2).

[0199] The openings (OP) may include a plurality of first openings (OP1) and a plurality of second openings (OP2). The first openings (OP1) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP). The second openings (OP2) may be defined on the upper surface (US) of the folding portion (FP).

[0200] The first openings (OP1) can be arranged in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The first openings (OP1) can extend longer in the second direction (DR2) than in the first direction (DR2). The first openings (OP1) arranged in the h-th column and the first openings (OP1) arranged in the h+1-th column can be arranged in an alternating manner.

[0201] The second openings (OP2) can be arranged in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The second openings (OP2) can extend longer in the second direction (DR2) than in the first direction (DR2). The second openings (OP2) arranged in the h-th column and the second openings (OP2) arranged in the h+1-th column can be arranged in an alternating manner.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 11, when viewed in a plan view, the second openings (OP2) may overlap the first openings (OP1), respectively. In addition, when viewed in a plan view, the second openings (OP2) may be respectively arranged within the first openings (OP1). The width of each of the first openings (OP1) in the first direction (DR1) may be greater than the width of each of the second openings (OP2). The length of each of the first openings (OP1) in the second direction (DR2) may be greater than the length of each of the second openings (OP2). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the length of each of the second openings (OP2) may be less than the length of each of the first openings (OP1).

[0203] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅳ-Ⅳ' shown in Figure 12.

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, openings (OP) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1) and may be defined to penetrate portions of a curved portion (CSP) in a third direction (DR3). The openings (OP) may have different shapes depending on the position of the curved portion (CSP) with respect to the third direction (DR3). The openings (OP) may include first openings (OP1) and second openings (OP2) having different shapes.

[0205] The first openings (OP1) are defined on the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP) and can extend in a third direction (DR3). The second openings (OP2) can be defined on the first openings (OP1), respectively. The second openings (OP2) are defined on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP) and can extend in a third direction (DR3). The first openings (OP1) and the second openings (OP2) can be defined continuously in the third direction (DR3).

[0206] The first openings (OP1) may be arranged at equal intervals in the first direction (DR1). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first openings (OP1) may be arranged at various intervals in the first direction (DR1).

[0207] The second openings (OP2) may be arranged at equal intervals in the first direction (DR2). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the second openings (OP2) may be arranged at various intervals in the first direction (DR1).

[0208] Based on the lower surface (LS) of the curved surface (CSP), the first openings (OP1) can be arranged to be evenly spaced apart by a first gap (GP1). For example, the gap between two adjacent first openings (OP1) can be defined as the first gap (GP1). The first gap (GP1) can be defined as a value measured in the first direction (DR1).

[0209] For example, the first gap (GP1) may be 100 micrometers (μm), but the numerical value of the first gap (GP1) is not limited thereto. The first gap (GP1) may be equal to the maximum width of each of the first openings (OP1) measured in the first direction (DR1). The maximum width of each of the first openings (OP1) may be defined as the width of each of the first openings (OP1) measured based on the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0210] Based on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP), the second openings (OP2) can be arranged to be evenly spaced apart by a second gap (GP2). For example, the gap between two adjacent second openings (OP2) can be defined as the second gap (GP2). The second gap (GP2) can be defined as a value measured in the first direction (DR1). For example, the second gap (GP2) can be 180 micrometers (μm), but the value of the second gap (GP2) is not limited thereto.

[0211] Fig. 14a is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in Fig. 13. Fig. 14b is a drawing showing a structure in which the first depth and the second depth illustrated in Fig. 14a are set differently from Fig. 14a.

[0212] For example, in Fig. 14a, the boundary between the first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) is depicted as a dotted line extending in the first direction (DR1). In addition, an imaginary curve adjacent to the boundary between the first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) and defined continuously along the edge of the first opening (OP1) is depicted as a dashed line.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 14A, the folding portion (FP) may include a first inner side (IS1) defining a first opening (OP1) and a second inner side (IS2) defining a second opening (OP2). Specifically, the curved surface (CSP) of the folding portion (FP) may include the first inner side (IS1) and the second inner side (IS2).

[0214] The first inner side surface (IS1) may have a curved shape. The second inner side surface (IS2) may have an inclined surface extending in a straight shape at a predetermined angle with respect to the third direction (DR3). For example, the second inner side surface (IS2) may form an acute angle with respect to the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0215] The first inner side (IS1) may have a concave shape. Depending on the shape of the first inner side (IS1), when viewed in the second direction (DR2), the first opening (OP1) may have a convex shape upward. Depending on the shape of the second inner side (IS2), when viewed in the second direction (DR2), the second opening (OP2) may have a trapezoidal shape.

[0216] In a first direction (DR1), a first opening (OP1) may have a first width (WT1), and a second opening (OP2) may have a second width (WT2) in the first direction (DR1). The first width (WT1) and the second width (WT2) may be defined as values ​​measured in the first direction (DR1). The first width (WT1) and the second width (WT2) may be different from each other.

[0217] The first width (WT1) may be defined as the distance between first inner sides (IS1) facing each other in the first direction (DR1). The second width (WT2) may be defined as the distance between second inner sides (IS2) facing each other in the first direction (DR1).

[0218] The first width (WT1) may gradually decrease as it goes upward. Since the first inner side (IS1) has a curved shape, the rate of decrease of the first width (WT1) of the first opening (OP1) may vary, like a quadratic function curve.

[0219] The second width (WT2) may gradually decrease as it goes upward. Since the second inner side (IS2) has a linear shape, the rate of decrease of the second width (WT2) of the second opening (OP2) may be constant, like a linear function.

[0220] The first width (WT1) is variable, the second width (WT2) is variable, and the first width (WT1) can be greater than the second width (WT2). That is, the first opening (OP1) can be defined to be larger than the second opening (OP2).

[0221] Hereinafter, in the present specification, the thickness may be defined as a numerical value measured in the third direction (DR3). The thickness (T) of the folding portion (FP) may be defined as the thickness (T) of the first support plate (PLT1). For example, the thickness (T) of the first support plate (PLT1) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 150 micrometers (μm).

[0222] When the thickness of the first support plate (PLT1) increases, the thickness and weight of the display device (DD) increase, so that the marketability of the display device (DD) targeting slimness and lightweight may decrease. When the thickness of the first support plate (PLT1) increases, the bending stiffness of the folding part (FP) increases, so that the folding performance may decrease. In addition, when the bending stiffness of the folding part (FP) increases, the stress of the folding part (FP) increases during the folding operation of the folding part (FP), so that the folding part (FP) may be damaged. As an appropriate thickness so as not to impair marketability, when the first support plate (PLT1) includes metal, the first support plate (PLT1) may have a thickness less than or equal to 150 micrometers (μm).

[0223] The first opening (OP1) may have a first depth (DTH1) in a third direction (DR3), and the second opening (OP2) may have a second depth (DTH2) in a third direction (DR3). The first depth (DTH1) may be defined as a direction toward the inside of the curved portion (CSP) perpendicular to the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP), based on the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP). The second depth (DTH2) may be defined as a direction toward the inside of the curved portion (CSP) perpendicular to the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP), based on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0224] A first thickness (Tb) of a portion of the folding portion (FP) in which a first opening (OP1) is defined may be equal to a first depth (DTH1). A second thickness (Tt) of a portion of the folding portion (FP) in which a second opening (OP2) is defined may be equal to a second depth (DTH2).

[0225] The second thickness (Tt) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to a first value obtained by multiplying the thickness (T) by 0.3 or a second value obtained by multiplying the thickness (T) by 0.7. The first thickness (Tb) may have a value obtained by subtracting the second thickness (Tt) from the thickness (T).

[0226] The minimum width (MIW) of the second width (WT2) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 50 micrometers (μm). The minimum width (MIW) may be defined as a portion of the second opening (OP2) defined on the upper surface (US).

[0227] As the minimum width (MIW) increases, the durability of the folding portion (FP) may decrease. As the minimum width (MIW) decreases, the folding operation of the folding portion (FP) may become difficult. The second gap (GP2) illustrated in Fig. 13 may be defined as the rib width. For example, when the second gap (GP2) has a value in the range of 50 micrometers (μm) to 250 micrometers (μm), the minimum width (MIW) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 40 micrometers (μm).

[0228] In order for the folding portion (FP) to have appropriate durability, the minimum width (MIW) may be set to a value greater than 0 micrometers (μm) and less than or equal to 40 micrometers (μm). However, the second opening (OP2) is formed by a laser process (illustrated in FIG. 22c below), and considering a processing tolerance of 10 micrometers (μm) for the laser processing, the minimum width (MIW) may be set to a value greater than 0 micrometers (μm) and less than or equal to 50 micrometers (μm).

[0229] The first opening (OP1) may be formed by a photoresist process (hereinafter, as illustrated in FIG. 22b). In this case, the width of the first opening (OP1) may be determined according to the depth of the first opening (OP1). That is, the maximum width (MWT1) of the first width (WT1) may be determined according to the first thickness (Tb). For example, the maximum width (MWT1) of the first width (WT1) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to a third value obtained by dividing the first thickness (Tb) by 0.6 or a fourth value obtained by dividing the first thickness (Tb) by 0.3. The maximum width (MWT1) may be defined as a portion of the first opening (OP1) defined on the lower surface (LS).

[0230] Under the condition that the maximum width (MWT1) is greater than the minimum width (MIW), the minimum width (MIW) can have any value in the above numerical range, and the maximum width (MWT1) can have any value in the above numerical range.

[0231] For example, the first width (WT1) may be greater than 20 micrometers (μm) and less than or equal to 100 micrometers (μm). In this case, the maximum width (MWT1) of the first width (WT1) may be set to 100 micrometers (μm).

[0232] For example, the second width (WT2) may be greater than or equal to 10 micrometers (μm) and less than or equal to 20 micrometers (μm). In this case, the maximum width (MWT2) of the second width (WT2) may be set to 20 micrometers (μm), and the minimum width (MIW) of the second width (WT2) may be set to 10 micrometers (μm).

[0233] The numerical ranges for the first width (WT1) and the second width (WT2) are provided as examples, and the first width (WT1) and the second width (WT2) may vary depending on the thickness of the first support plate (PLT1).

[0234] Under the conditions of the numerical range of the first thickness (Tb) corresponding to the first depth (DTH1) described above and the numerical range of the second thickness (Tt) corresponding to the second depth (DTH2), the first depth (DTH1) and the second depth (DTH2) can be set to various values. For example, the first depth (DTH1) and the second depth (DTH2) can be different from each other. That is, the first thickness (Tb) and the second thickness (Tt) can be different from each other. Specifically, the first depth (DTH1) can be greater than the second depth (DTH2). That is, the first thickness (Tb) can be greater than the second thickness (Tt).

[0235] For example, the ratio of the first depth (DTH1) to the second depth (DTH2) may be 6:4, but the ratio of the first depth (DTH1) to the second depth (DTH2) is not limited thereto and may be set in various ways. For example, referring to FIG. 14b, the first depth (DTH1) of the first opening (OP1) may be smaller than the second depth (DTH2) of the second opening (OP2). That is, the first thickness (Tb) may be smaller than the second thickness (Tt). Specifically, in FIG. 14b, the ratio of the first depth (DTH1) to the second depth (DTH2) may be 4:6. That is, the ratio of the first thickness (Tb) to the second thickness (Tt) may be set to 4:6.

[0236] For example, the first depth (DTH1) may be 60 micrometers and the second depth (DTH2) may be 40 micrometers. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first depth (DTH1) and the second depth (DTH2) may have various values ​​depending on the thickness of the first support plate (PLT1). The maximum width (MWT1) of the first width (WT1) may be greater than the first depth (DTH1). The maximum width (MWT2) of the second width (WT2) may be less than the second depth (DTH2).

[0237] The folding portion (FP) may further include a protrusion (PT) protruding downward from the first inner side (IS1) adjacent to the boundary between the first inner side (IS1) and the second inner side (IS2). The boundary between the first inner side (IS1) and the second inner side (IS2) may substantially correspond to the boundary between the first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2).

[0238] The protrusion (PT) may be formed according to a process for forming the second opening (OP2). The reason for forming the protrusion (PT) will be described in detail in the manufacturing method of the display device (DD) according to the embodiment of the present invention below.

[0239] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the V-V' line shown in Figure 12.

[0240] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 15, the first opening (OP1) may have a first length (LT1) in the second direction (DR2), and the second opening (OP2) may have a second length (LT2) in the second direction (DR2). The first length (LT1) and the second length (LT2) may be defined as measured values ​​in the second direction (DR2). The first length (LT1) and the second length (LT2) may be different from each other. For example, the second length (LT2) may be smaller than the first length (LT1).

[0241] The first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) may be formed by different processes. In an embodiment of the present invention, the first opening (OP1) may be formed by an etching process, and the second opening (OP2) may be formed by a laser process.

[0242] The first opening (OP1) can be formed by processing portions of the folding portion (FP) (e.g., portions of the curved portion (CSP)) with an etching agent. The second opening (OP2) can be formed by processing portions of the folding portion (FP) (e.g., portions of the curved portion (CSP)) with a laser beam. These processing methods will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 22A to 22D .

[0243] When the processing method is different, the surface roughness of the first inner side (IS1) and the surface roughness of the second inner side (IS2) may be different. For example, the surface roughness of the first inner side (IS1) may be greater than the surface roughness of the second inner side (IS2).

[0244] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a first support plate having openings defined as shown in FIGS. 13 to 15 and a display module attached to the first support plate.

[0245] For example, Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Fig. 13, in which the adhesive layer (AL) of the display module (DM) is shown separately. Also, for example, the components of the display device (DD) positioned under the first support plate (PLT1) are omitted.

[0246] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, the second openings (OP2) may have a smaller size than the first openings (OP1). Accordingly, the area of ​​the upper surface (US) of the folding portion (FP) may be larger than the area of ​​the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP). In this case, the upper surface (US) of the folding portion (FP) may have greater rigidity than the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP). Specifically, a portion of the curved portion (CSP) adjacent to the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP) may have greater rigidity than a portion of the curved portion (CSP) adjacent to the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0247] The larger the size of the openings (OP), the more flexible the curved portion (CSP) is, but the more easily the curved portion (CSP) can be deformed by external impact (OIM) (or external pressure). In other words, the larger the size of the openings (OP), the weaker the bearing capacity of the curved portion (CSP), which can lead to a weakening of the impact resistance of the curved portion (CSP). Impact resistance can be defined as the property of withstanding external impact without being deformed.

[0248] The smaller the size of the openings (OP), the less flexible the curved portion (CSP) is, but the less easily it may deform in response to external impact (OIM). In other words, the smaller the size of the openings (OP), the stronger the support capacity of the curved portion (CSP), and the stronger the impact resistance of the curved portion (CSP).

[0249] In an embodiment of the present invention, the flexibility of the curved portion (CSP) can be increased by the first openings (OP1) having a larger width, and the supporting force of the curved portion (CSP) can be improved by the second openings (OP2) having a smaller width. Accordingly, when an external impact (OIM) is applied toward the curved portion (CSP) from above the display module (DM), deformation of the folding area (FA) of the display module (DM) overlapping the curved portion (CSP) can be prevented by the curved portion (CSP) having an improved supporting force. As a result, the impact resistance of the display device (DD) can be improved.

[0250] The widths of the first openings (OP1) may become smaller as they go upward, and the widths of the second openings (OP2) may become smaller as they go upward. Since the space of the first openings (OP1) gradually becomes smaller as they go upward, the first support plate (PLT1) may prevent the inflow of contaminant particles that may exist beneath the first support plate (PLT1).

[0251] Fig. 17 is a drawing illustrating a first comparison support plate (PLT1') according to a comparative example.

[0252] For example, FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 13, and below, the configurations of the first comparative support plate (PLT1') illustrated in FIG. 17 will be described, focusing on configurations different from those of the first support plate (PLT1) illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0253] Referring to Fig. 17, the first comparison support plate (PLT1') may be positioned under the display module (DM) like the first support plate (PLT1) illustrated in Fig. 13. A plurality of openings (OP') may be defined in the curved portion (CSP') of the folding portion (FP') of the first comparison support plate (PLT1').

[0254] The openings (OP') may be larger than the openings (OP) illustrated in FIG. 13. The openings (OP') may be formed larger than the openings (OP) illustrated in FIG. 13 solely to enhance flexibility. For example, the width of each of the openings (OP') in the first direction (DR1) may be approximately 110 micrometers (μm). Although not illustrated, the openings (OP') may be formed through an etching process on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP') and the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP').

[0255] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the results of a ball drop test for a comparative display device including the display device of the present invention and the first comparative support plate shown in FIG. 17. FIG. 19 is a drawing showing the results of an artificial nail pressure test for a comparative display device including the display device of the present invention and the first comparative support plate shown in FIG. 17.

[0256] In FIGS. 18 and 19, for example, the number of tested display devices (DD) may be four, and the number of tested comparison display devices (DD') may be four. The test was performed on the center of the curved portion (CSP) of the first support plate (PLT1) and the center of the curved portion (CSP') of the first comparison support plate (PLT1').

[0257] In FIGS. 18 and 19, (No WIN, PLT1) represents display devices (DD) that do not include a window (WIN) and a window protection layer (WP), and (No WIN, PLT1') represents comparative display devices (DD') that do not include a window (WIN) and a window protection layer (WP). In addition, in FIGS. 18 and 19, (WIN, PLT1) represents display devices (DD) that include a window (WIN) and a window protection layer (WP), and (WIN, PLT1') represents comparative display devices (DD') that include a window (WIN) and a window protection layer (WP).

[0258] Referring to FIG. 18, the ball drop test can be performed by dropping a metal ball having a predetermined weight (e.g., 21.7 g) onto the display devices (DD) and the comparison display devices (DD') toward the display devices (DD) and the comparison display devices (DD').

[0259] The ball drop test can be performed by gradually increasing the height of the ball from the upper surfaces of the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD') by a predetermined height. The maximum height of the ball drop test is 50 centimeters (cm), and the ball is dropped toward the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD') by increasing the height of the ball by 1 centimeter (cm).

[0260] The test values ​​shown in Fig. 18 represent values ​​at which the display devices (DD) and the comparative display devices (DD') are not damaged when the ball is dropped from a gradually increasing height. For example, if the display device (DD) is not damaged when the ball is dropped from 30 centimeters (cm), and the display device (DD) is damaged when the ball is dropped from 31 centimeters (cm), the ball drop test value of the display device (DD) may be 30 centimeters (cm). Damage to the display device (DD) may be determined by whether a dark spot appears on the display module (DM) during the image display operation of the display module (DM).

[0261] The test range illustrated in Fig. 18 represents the distribution area of ​​the test result values ​​of the display devices (DD) and the distribution area of ​​the test result values ​​of the comparison display devices (DD').

[0262] In the ball drop test, the test values ​​of the comparative display devices (DD') without the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) can be in the range of approximately 20 centimeters (cm) to 27 centimeters (cm).

[0263] In the ball drop test, the test values ​​of display devices (DD) without a window (WIN) and a window protection layer (WP) can be approximately in the range of 27 centimeters (cm) to 37 centimeters (cm).

[0264] Therefore, in the ball drop test, the impact resistance of the display devices (DD) that do not include the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be greater than that of the comparative display devices (DD') that do not include the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP).

[0265] In the ball drop test, the test values ​​of the comparison display devices (DD') including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) can be approximately in the range of 33 centimeters (cm) to 40 centimeters (cm).

[0266] In the ball drop test, the test values ​​of the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be 50 centimeters (cm). That is, even if the ball is dropped from the maximum height of 50 centimeters (cm) onto the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP), the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) are not damaged.

[0267] Therefore, in the ball drop test, the impact resistance of the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be greater than that of the comparative display devices (DD') including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP).

[0268] Referring to FIG. 19, the artificial nail pressure test can be performed by pressing the artificial nail toward the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD') on the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD').

[0269] The artificial nail pressure test can be performed by contacting the artificial nail with the upper surfaces of the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD') and gradually increasing the pressure of the artificial nail by a predetermined amount. The maximum pressure of the artificial nail pressure test is 10 kilogram force (kgf), and the pressure is increased by 0.5 kilogram force (kgf) so that the artificial nail is pressed toward the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD').

[0270] The test values ​​shown in Fig. 19 represent values ​​at which the indicator devices (DD) and the comparative indicator devices (DD') are not damaged when the pressure of the artificial nail is gradually increased and pressed. For example, when the pressure of the artificial nail is 7 kilogram force (kgf), the indicator device (DD) is not damaged, and when the pressure of the artificial nail is 7.5 kilogram force (kgf), the indicator device (DD) is damaged, so the artificial nail pressurization test value of the corresponding indicator device (DD) may be 7 kilogram force (kgf).

[0271] The test range illustrated in Fig. 19 represents the distribution area of ​​the test result values ​​of the display devices (DD) and the distribution area of ​​the test result values ​​of the comparison display devices (DD').

[0272] In the artificial nail pressure test, the test values ​​of the comparative display devices (DD') without the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) can be approximately in the range of 5 kilogram force (kgf) to 7.5 kilogram force (kgf).

[0273] In the artificial nail pressure test, the test values ​​of the display devices (DD) without the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) can be approximately in the range of 6.5 kilogram force (kgf) to 7.5 kilogram force (kgf).

[0274] In the artificial nail pressure test, the impact resistance of the display devices (DD) without the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be greater than that of the comparative display devices (DD') without the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP), based on the lowest value.

[0275] In the artificial nail pressure test, the test values ​​of the comparative display devices (DD') including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be 7 kilogram force (kgf).

[0276] In the artificial nail pressure test, the test values ​​of the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be 10 kilogram force (kgf). That is, even if the artificial nail presses the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) with 10 kilogram force (kgf), which is the maximum pressure of the artificial nail, the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) are not damaged.

[0277] Therefore, in the artificial nail pressure test, the impact resistance of the display devices (DD) including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP) may be greater than that of the comparative display devices (DD') including the window (WIN) and the window protection layer (WP).

[0278] FIG. 20 is a graph showing the results of a ball drop test and an artificial nail pressure test for a comparative display device performed while varying the width of the openings shown in FIG. 17.

[0279] Referring to Fig. 20, a ball drop test and an artificial nail pressure test were performed on the comparison display device (DD') while the width of the openings (OP') of the curved portion (CSP) was varied from 0 to 160 micrometers (μm). When the width of the openings (OP') is 0, the first comparison support plate (PLT1') without defined openings is indicated.

[0280] As the width of the openings (OP') increases, the test values ​​according to the ball drop test and the artificial nail pressure test may gradually decrease. In other words, as the width of the openings (OP') increases, the impact resistance of the comparison display device (DD') may decrease.

[0281] FIG. 21 is a table showing the results of a ball drop test and an artificial nail pressure test for a display device performed while varying the ratio of the first openings and the second openings of the first support plate of the present invention.

[0282] The ratio shown in Fig. 21 represents the ratio of the second openings (OP2) and the first openings (OP1). The ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) and each of the first openings (OP1) can substantially represent the ratio of the second depth (DTH2) and the first depth (DTH1) shown in Fig. 14.

[0283] As the ratio of the first openings (OP1) decreases, the test values ​​for ball drop and artificial nail pressure may increase. In other words, the impact resistance may be improved. As the ratio of the first openings (OP1) increases, the test values ​​for ball drop and artificial nail pressure may decrease. In other words, the impact resistance may be reduced.

[0284] Range (A), range (B), and range (C) represent corresponding parts in the test results of Fig. 20 and Fig. 21. For example, based on range (B), when the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) and each of the first openings (OP1) in Fig. 21 is 4:6, the ball drop test value may be 25 centimeters (cm). Based on range (B), when the width of the openings (OP') in Fig. 20 is 75 micrometers (μm), the ball drop test value may be 25 centimeters (cm).

[0285] That is, the width of the openings (OP') corresponding to a ball drop test value of 25 centimeters (cm) may be 75 micrometers, and the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) corresponding to a ball drop test value of 25 centimeters (cm) to each of the first openings (OP1) may be 4:6.

[0286] Based on the range (B), when the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) and each of the first openings (OP1) in Fig. 21 is 4:6, the artificial nail pressure test value may be 6.5 kilogram force (kgf). Based on the range (B), in Fig. 20, when the width of the openings (OP') is 75 micrometers (μm), the artificial nail pressure test value may be 6.5 kilogram force (kgf).

[0287] That is, the width of the openings (OP') corresponding to the artificial nail pressure test value of 6.5 kilogram force (kgf) may be 75 micrometers (μm), and the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) corresponding to the artificial nail pressure test value of 6.5 kilogram force (kgf) to each of the first openings (OP1) may be 4:6. In order for the curved portion (CSP) to have appropriate flexibility and appropriate impact resistance, in an embodiment of the present invention, the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) to each of the first openings (OP1) may be set to 4:6.

[0288] When the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) to each of the first openings (OP1) is 7:3 to 3:7, the ball drop test can be 25 centimeters (cm) to 28 centimeters (cm). When the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) to each of the first openings (OP1) is 7:3 to 3:7, the artificial nail pressure test value can be 9.2 kilogram force (kgf) to 6.5 kilogram force (kgf).

[0289] When the ratio of the second thickness (Tt) and the first thickness (Tb) is 7:3 to 3:7, the ball drop test may be 25 centimeters (cm) to 28 centimeters (cm), and the artificial nail pressure test value may be 9.2 kilogram force (kgf) to 6.5 kilogram force (kgf).

[0290] When the ratio of the second thickness (Tt) and the first thickness (Tb) is 7:3 to 3:7, the second thickness (Tt) may have a value in the range of 30% to 70% of the thickness (T). In this case, the impact resistance performance of the display device (DD) for ball drop test and artificial nail pressure test values ​​may be improved.

[0291] When the second thickness (Tt) is in the range of 80% to 100% of the thickness (T), the impact resistance performance of the display device (DD) for the ball drop test and artificial nail pressure test values ​​can be further improved. However, in this case, the depth of the second opening (OP2) increases, which may increase the amount of laser processing required to form the second opening (OP2). When the amount of laser processing increases, the laser processing time may increase. The laser processing is described below in Fig. 22c.

[0292] When the second thickness (Tt) is in the range of 0% to 20% of the thickness (T), the laser processing amount may be reduced, thereby reducing the laser processing time. However, since the size of the first opening (OP1) increases, the impact resistance of the display device (DD) may be reduced.

[0293] In an embodiment of the present invention, the ratio of each of the second openings (OP2) to each of the first openings (OP1) can be set in various ways, depending on the manufacturer's choice. In an embodiment of the present invention, considering the impact resistance performance of the display device (DD) for ball drop test and artificial nail pressure test values, the second thickness (Tt) can have a value in the range of 30% to 70% of the thickness (T).

[0294] FIGS. 22A to 22D are drawings illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0295] By way of example, FIGS. 22a to 22d are shown as cross-sections corresponding to FIGS. 13 and 16.

[0296] Referring to FIG. 22a, a first support plate (PLT1), a photoresist (PR), and a mask (MSK) may be prepared. The photoresist (PR) may be placed on the upper surface (US) and the lower surface (LS) of the first support plate (PLT1). The mask (MSK) may be placed on the upper and lower surfaces of the photoresist (PR).

[0297] A plurality of mask openings (M-OP) may be defined in a mask (MSK) disposed on a lower surface of a photoresist (PR). Portions of the photoresist (PR) overlapping the openings (M-OP) may be exposed (e.g., exposed to light) by the openings (M-OP). Portions of the photoresist (PR) disposed on a lower surface of a first support plate (PLT1) may be exposed. The exposed portions of the photoresist (PR) may be developed and removed.

[0298] Referring to FIG. 22b, portions of the photoresist (PR) may be removed by a developing process to define openings (P-OP) in the photoresist (PR). The openings (P-OP) may be defined in the photoresist (PR) disposed on the lower surface of the first support plate (PLT1).

[0299] An etchant (ETH) can be supplied to the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP) through the openings (P-OP). Specifically, the etchant (ETH) can be supplied to the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP) using a photoresist (PR) as a mask.

[0300] Referring to FIGS. 22b and 22c, portions of the curved surface (CSP) exposed by the openings (P-OP) can be removed by an etchant (ETH). The portions of the curved surface (CSP) removed by the etchant (ETH) are shown in gray in FIG. 22b. This process can be defined as an etching process.

[0301] First openings (OP1) can be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP) (specifically, the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP)) by an etching agent (ETH). When viewed in a second direction (DR2), the first openings (OP1) can be defined to have a convex shape upward. When the first openings (OP1) are formed by the etching process, the first inner surface (IS1) defining the first openings (OP1) can have a curved surface. The first openings (OP1) defined by the etching agent (ETH) can correspond to the first openings (OP1) illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0302] Referring to FIG. 22c, the photoresist (PR) is removed, and a laser beam (LB) can be irradiated toward the first openings (OP1) under the curved portion (CSP) of the folding portion (FP). The laser beam (LB) can be an ultraviolet laser, and the power of the laser beam (LB) can be 5 W to 7 W. The laser beam (LB) can be irradiated to areas of the curved portion (CSP) to define the second openings (OP2).

[0303] For example, the laser beam (LB) can be irradiated to areas for forming second openings (OP2) while moving in the second direction (DR2) as shown in Fig. 12. For example, the laser beam (LB) can be irradiated to the curved surface (CSP) 25 times in one direction.

[0304] Referring to FIGS. 22c and 22d, a laser beam (LB) may be irradiated toward the first openings (OP1) to define second openings (OP2) penetrating the upper surface (US) of the folding portion (FP). Specifically, the second openings (OP2) may be defined to penetrate the upper surface of the curved portion (CSP).

[0305] When the second openings (OP2) are formed by the laser beam (LB), the second inner side (IS2) defining the second openings (OP2) may have an inclined surface. The second openings (OP2) defined by the laser beam (LB) may correspond to the second openings (OP2) illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0306] The surface on which the laser beam (LB) is irradiated (e.g., the upper side of the first inner surface (IS1) that is concave upward in FIG. 22c) may be further heated and melted as the laser beam (LB) is irradiated more continuously. In this case, the protrusion (PT) illustrated in FIG. 14 may be formed to protrude from the second inner surface (IS2).

[0307] A protrusion (PT) may be formed by a laser beam (LB) used in a laser process. Such a protrusion (PT) may not be formed on the upper surface (US) of a curved surface (CSP), which is a surface not irradiated with the laser beam (LB).

[0308] According to the above process, the surface roughness of the first inner surface (IS1) formed by the laser beam (LB) may be greater than the surface roughness of the second inner surface (IS2) formed by the etching solution (ETH). According to the above process, the first support plate (PLT1) can be manufactured.

[0309] A display module (DM) is placed on a first support plate (PLT1), and the display module (DM) can be attached to the upper surface (US) of the first support plate (PLT1) by an adhesive layer (AL).

[0310] FIG. 23 is a drawing showing the configuration of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0311] For example, FIG. 23 is illustrated as a cross-section corresponding to FIG. 16, and the configuration of the display device (DD-1) illustrated in FIG. 23 will be described below, focusing on a configuration different from that of the display device (DD) illustrated in FIG. 16.

[0312] Referring to FIG. 23, the adhesive layer (AL') of the display module (DM) can be arranged to overlap the entire folding portion (FP). For example, unlike the adhesive layer (AL) of the display module (DM) illustrated in FIG. 16, the adhesive layer (AL') illustrated in FIG. 23 can be arranged to overlap the curved portion (CSP).

[0313] FIGS. 24 to 28 are drawings showing configurations of first support plates according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0314] For example, FIGS. 24 to 28 are cross-sectional views corresponding to FIG. 13. Hereinafter, the configurations of the first support plates (PLT1-1 to PLT1-5) illustrated in FIGS. 24 to 28 will be described, focusing on configurations different from the first support plate (PLT1) illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0315] Referring to FIG. 24, each of the plurality of openings (OP-1) defined in the first support plate (PLT1-1) may include a first opening (OP1) and a second opening (OP2-1). The first openings (OP1) may be substantially the same as the first openings (OP1) illustrated in FIG. 13. Accordingly, the width of each of the first openings (OP1) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually decrease upward. The width of each of the second openings (OP2-1) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually increase upward.

[0316] The first openings (OP1) can be formed by the aforementioned etching process. That is, as shown in FIG. 22b, the etchant (ETH) can be provided toward the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP) through the openings (P-OP) of the photoresist (PR), thereby forming the first openings (OP1).

[0317] The second openings (OP2-1) can be formed by the aforementioned laser process. However, unlike the second openings (OP2) of FIG. 22c, the second openings (OP2-1) can be formed by irradiating the laser beam (LB) from above the folding portion (FP) toward the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP). When the laser beam (LB) is irradiated from above the folding portion (FP) toward the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP), the second openings (OP2-1) can be formed such that the width (WT) of each of the second openings (OP2-1) gradually increases upward.

[0318] Referring to FIGS. 25a and 25b, each of the plurality of openings (OP-2) defined in the first support plate (PLT1-2) may include a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2-2), and a third opening (OP3). FIG. 25b is an enlarged view of one of the openings (OP-2) illustrated in FIG. 25a.

[0319] The first openings (OP1) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP), and the third openings (OP3) may be defined on the upper surface (US) of the folding portion (FP). Specifically, the first openings (OP1) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP), and the third openings (OP3) may be defined on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP). The second opening (OP2-2) may be defined between the first opening (OP1) and the third opening (OP3).

[0320] The width of each of the first openings (OP1) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually decrease as it goes upward, and the width of each of the third openings (OP3) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually decrease as it goes downward. The width of each of the second openings (OP2-2) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually decrease as it goes upward.

[0321] The first openings (OP1) can be formed by the etching process described above. In addition, the third openings (OP3) can be formed by the etching process described above. For example, the third openings (OP3) can be formed by providing an etchant (ETH) toward the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP) through openings (not shown) of a photoresist disposed on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP). The second openings (OP2-2) can be formed by irradiating a laser beam (LB) toward the first openings (OP1) from below the curved portion (CSP), as illustrated in FIG. 22C. Depending on the laser process, protrusions (PT-1) can be formed at the boundary between the first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2-2).

[0322] Referring to Fig. 26, each of the plurality of openings (OP-3) defined in the first support plate (PLT1-3) may include a first opening (OP1-1) formed by an etching process and a second opening (OP2-3) formed by a laser process. In the third direction, the depth of each of the first openings (OP1-1) may be smaller than the depth of each of the second openings (OP2-3). The aforementioned Fig. 14b may be an enlarged view of one of the openings (OP) illustrated in Fig. 26.

[0323] The ratio of the depth of each of the first openings (OP1-1) to the depth of each of the second openings (OP2-3) can be set in various ways. For example, the ratio of the depth of each of the first openings (OP1-1) to the depth of each of the second openings (OP2-3) can be 3:7. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and as described in FIG. 14b, the ratio of the depth of each of the first openings (OP1-1) to the depth of each of the second openings (OP2-3) can be 4:6.

[0324] Referring to Fig. 27, a plurality of openings (OP-4) may be defined in the first support plate (PLT1-4). The openings (OP-4) may be formed by a laser process. For example, the aforementioned laser beam (LB) may be irradiated toward the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP) from below the folding portion (FP) to form the openings (OP-4). The width of each of the openings (OP-4) in the first direction (DR1) may gradually decrease upward.

[0325] Referring to FIG. 28, each of the plurality of openings (OP-5) defined in the first support plate (PLT1-5) may include a first opening (OP1-2) and a second opening (OP2-4). The first opening (OP1-2) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP). The second opening (OP2-4) may be defined on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0326] A laser beam (LB) may be irradiated toward the lower surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP) from below the folding portion (FP) to form a first opening (OP1-2). A laser beam (LB) may be irradiated toward the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP) from above the folding portion (FP) to form a second opening (OP2-4).

[0327] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0328] For example, Fig. 29 shows a plan view of a folding portion (FP-1) of the first support plate (PLT1-6).

[0329] Referring to FIG. 29, a plurality of openings (OP-6) may be defined in a curved portion (CSP-1) of a folding portion (FP-1). The openings (OP-6) may extend in a second direction (DR2) and be arranged in a first direction (DR1). The openings (OP-6) may be defined in a stripe pattern. The openings (OP-6) may be formed by a laser process. For example, the openings (OP-6) may have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the first openings (OP-4) illustrated in FIG. 27 or the second openings (OP-5) illustrated in FIG. 28.

[0330] The first support plate (PLT1-6) may have cutting lines (CTL) defined. The cutting lines (CTL) may be adjacent to both sides of the first support plate (PLT1-6) that are opposite to each other in the second direction (DR2) and extend parallel to the first direction (DR1). The openings (OP-6) may extend past the cutting lines (CTL) to be adjacent to both sides of the first support plate (PLT1-6).

[0331] Although not shown, the display module (DM) may be positioned inward from the cut lines (CTL) and overlap the openings (OP-6). After the display module (DM) is attached to the first support plate (PLT1-6), the first support plate (PLT1-6) may be cut along the cut lines (CTL). In this case, the portions cut along the cut lines (CTL) may be defined as new opposite sides of the first support plate (PLT1-6).

[0332] After the cutting process, the openings (OP-6) can be defined as portions cut along the cutting lines (CTL) and can be opened toward both sides of the folding portion (FP-1) opposite to each other in the second direction (DR2).

[0333] Fig. 30 is a drawing showing the configuration of an opening according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅵ-Ⅵ' shown in Fig. 30.

[0334] For example, one opening (OP-7) is shown in FIG. 30.

[0335] Referring to FIG. 30, the opening (OP-7) may include a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2), and a dummy opening (DOP). The first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) may extend in a second direction (DR2).

[0336] The dummy opening (DOP) can extend from one side of the first opening (OP1) in the second direction (DR2). The dummy opening (DOP) can extend from one side of the first opening (OP1) to the outside of the first opening (OP1). The widths of each of the second opening (OP2) and the dummy opening (DOP) in the first direction (DR1) can be smaller than the width of the first opening (OP1).

[0337] Referring to Fig. 31, a dummy opening (DOP) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the folding portion (FP). Specifically, the dummy opening (DOP) may be defined on the lower surface (LS) of the curved surface portion (CSP). The dummy opening (DOP) may extend from the first opening (OP1) in the second direction (DR2). When viewed in plan view, the dummy opening (DOP) may not overlap the second opening (OP2).

[0338] A dummy opening (DOP) can be formed by a laser process. For example, when a second opening (OP2) is formed by a laser beam (LB), the laser beam (LB) may be provided outside the first opening (OP1) and at an outer side of one side of the first opening (OP1). In this case, a dummy opening (DOP) extending from one side of the first opening (OP1) can be formed by the laser beam (LB).

[0339] Since a dummy opening (DOP) is formed by a laser beam (LB) to form a second opening (OP2), the dummy opening (DOP) can be formed to have a depth (DTH2) substantially the same as that of the second opening (OP2).

[0340] The openings (OP-7) shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 can be defined in multiple numbers in the curved portion (CSP).

[0341] FIGS. 32 and 33 are drawings showing the configuration of openings according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0342] For example, FIGS. 32 and 33 are plan views corresponding to FIG. 30, with one opening (OP-8) and one opening (OP-9) being shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, respectively.

[0343] Referring to FIG. 32, the opening (OP-8) may include a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2), and a dummy opening (DOP-1). The dummy opening (DOP-1) may extend from the other side of the first opening (OP1) in the second direction (DR2). The dummy opening (DOP-1) may extend from the other side of the first opening (OP1) to the outer side of the first opening (OP1). The dummy opening (DOP-1) may be substantially the same as the dummy opening (DOP) illustrated in FIG. 30, with only a different arrangement.

[0344] Referring to FIG. 33, the opening (OP-8) may include a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2), and dummy openings (DOP, DOP-1). The dummy opening (DOP) may extend from one side of the first opening (OP1) in a second direction (DR2). The dummy opening (DOP-1) may extend from the other side of the first opening (OP1) in a second direction (DR2).

[0345] FIG. 34 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0346] For example, Fig. 34 is a cross-section corresponding to Fig. 13. Hereinafter, the configuration of the first support plate (PLT1-7) illustrated in Fig. 34 will be described with a focus on other configurations than the first support plate (PLT1) illustrated in Fig. 13.

[0347] Referring to FIG. 34, each of the plurality of openings (OP-10) defined in the first support plate (PLT1-7) may include a first opening (OP1-3) and a second opening (OP2). The width (WT) of each of the first openings (OP1-3) in the first direction (DR3) may be constant in the third direction (DR3). The width (WT) of each of the first openings (OP1-3) may be smaller than the depth (DTH) of each of the first openings (OP1-3) in the third direction (DR3).

[0348] In FIG. 14, the maximum width (MWT1) of each of the first openings (OP1) is greater than the first depth (DTH1) of each of the first openings (OP1), and the etching process for forming these first openings (OP1) can be defined as an isotropic etching process.

[0349] As illustrated in FIG. 34, an anisotropic etching process may be used to form the first openings (OP1-3) such that the width (WT) of each of the first openings (OP1-3) is smaller than the depth (DTH) of each of the first openings (OP1-3). The anisotropic etching process may be a dry etching process. The width (WT) of each of the first openings (OP1-3) may be smaller than the maximum width (MWT1) of each of the first openings (OP1) illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0350] FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device including a display module and a support according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0351] Referring to FIG. 35, the electronic device (ED) may include a display device (DD), an electronic module (EM), a power module (PSM), and a case (EDC1, EDC2). Although not separately illustrated, the electronic device (ED) may further include a hinge structure for controlling the folding operation of the display device (DD).

[0352] As described above, the display device (DD) may have first and second holes (H1, H2) defined, a camera (CM) may be placed in the first hole (H1), and sensors (SN) may be placed in the second holes (H2).

[0353] An electronic module (EM) and a power module (PSM) may be positioned under a support unit (SUP). Although not shown, the electronic module (EM) and the power module (PSM) may be connected to each other via a flexible circuit board. The electronic module (EM) may control the operation of the display module (DM). The power module (PSM) may supply power to the display module (DM).

[0354] An electronic module (EM) may include a processor. The processor may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller.

[0355] The cases (EDC1, EDC2) can accommodate a display module (DM), a support unit (SUP), a camera (CM), sensors (SN), an electronic module (EM), and a power module (PSM). The cases (EDC1, EDC2) can be divided into two first cases and a second case (EDC1, EDC2) for folding the display device (DD). The cases (EDC1, EDC2) can protect the display module (DM), the support unit (SUP), the camera (CM), sensors (SN), the electronic module (EM), and the power module (PSM).

[0356] Figure 36 is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in Figure 27.

[0357] Referring to FIG. 36, the thickness (T') of the first support plate (PLT1-4) may be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 170 micrometers (μm). The first support plate (PLT1-4) may be non-metallic and may include carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The first support plate (PLT1-4) including the non-metal may be lighter than the first support plate (PLT1) described above and may have a greater thickness than the first support plate (PLT1). Accordingly, the first support plate (PLT1-4) may have a thickness less than or equal to 170 micrometers (μm).

[0358] The minimum width (MIW') of the opening (OP-4) can be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 50 micrometers (μm). The minimum width (MIW') can be defined as the portion of the opening (OP-4) defined on the upper surface (US). The maximum width (MWT') of the opening (OP-4) can be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 70 micrometers (μm). The maximum width (MWT') can be defined as the portion of the opening (OP-4) defined on the lower surface (LS). The maximum width (MWT') can be formed to be greater than the minimum width (MIW'). For example, the difference between the maximum width (MWT') and the minimum width (MIW') can be greater than 0 micrometer (μm) and less than or equal to 20 micrometers (μm).

[0359] FIG. 37 is a drawing showing the results of a ball drop test for display devices including the support plates shown in FIGS. 13 and 27 and comparative display devices including the first comparative support plate shown in FIG. 17.

[0360] Referring to Fig. 37, tests were performed on a plurality of comparative display devices (DD') and a plurality of display devices (DD), and the circled portions in the graph represent experimental result numerical portions of the comparative display devices (DD') and the display devices (DD). The boxed portions may represent portions where test results are gathered. The numerical values ​​written adjacent to the boxed portions represent the average value (Ave) of the test results. The delta (△) value represents the increase or decrease state of the test value. The folding portion and the non-folding portion represent the aforementioned folding portion (FP) and the first and second non-folding portions (NFP1, NFP2).

[0361] Tests were performed on a first comparative support plate (PLT1') comprising titanium metal (Metal-Ti), first support plates (PLT1, PLT1-4) comprising titanium metal (Metal-Ti), and first support plates (PLT1, PLT1-4) comprising carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).

[0362] The width of the opening (OP') defined on the upper surface (US) of the first support plate (PLT1) in the comparison display device (DD') may be 170 micrometers (μm). The minimum widths (MIW, MIW') of the openings (OP, OP-4) defined on the upper surfaces (US) of the first support plates (PLT1, PLT1-4) may be 20 micrometers (μm).

[0363] In the comparative display device (DD'), the impact resistance of the folding portion may be lower than the impact resistance of the non-folding portion. In the display device (DD) comprising titanium metal (Metal-Ti), the impact resistance of the folding portion may be higher than the impact resistance of the non-folding portion. In the display device (DD) comprising carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), the impact resistance of the folding portion may be higher than the impact resistance of the non-folding portion.

[0364] The impact resistance of the folding part of the display device (DD) including titanium metal (Metal-Ti) may be greater than the impact resistance of the folding part of the comparison display device (DD'). The impact resistance of the folding part of the display device (DD) including carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) may be greater than the impact resistance of the folding part of the display device (DD) including titanium metal (Metal-Ti).

[0365] FIG. 38a is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 38b is an enlarged view of one of the openings illustrated in FIG. 38a.

[0366] Hereinafter, the configuration of the first support plate (PLT1-8) illustrated in FIGS. 38a and 38b will be described, focusing on configurations other than the first support plate (PLT1-2) illustrated in FIG. 25a.

[0367] Referring to FIGS. 38a and 38b, the width of the second opening (OP2-2') of each of the openings (OP-2') may gradually increase as it goes upward. The second openings (OP2-2') may be formed by irradiating the aforementioned laser beam (LB) toward the third opening (OP3) on the upper surface (US) of the curved portion (CSP). Depending on the laser process, protrusions (PT-2) may be formed at the boundary between the third opening (OP3) and the second opening (OP2-2').

[0368] FIG. 39 is a drawing showing the configuration of a first support plate according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0369] Hereinafter, the configuration of the first support plate (PLT1-9) illustrated in FIG. 39 will be described, focusing on configurations other than the first support plate (PLT1-4) illustrated in FIG. 27.

[0370] Referring to Fig. 39, the width of the opening (OP-4') defined in the first support plate (PLT1-9) may gradually decrease as it goes downward. The openings (OP-4') may be formed by irradiating the aforementioned laser beam (LB) toward the curved portion (CSP) from the upper surface (LS) of the curved portion (CSP).

[0371] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and all technical ideas falling within the scope of the following claims and equivalents thereof should be construed as being included within the scope of the rights of the present invention.

[0372] The present invention has high industrial applicability because a display device with improved shock resistance can be provided to a user.

Claims

1. A display module including a non-folding region and a folding region arranged in a first direction; and A support plate including a folding portion overlapping the above folding area, In the above folding portion, an opening extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is defined, The above opening is, A first opening defined on the lower surface of the above folding portion; and comprising a second opening defined on the first opening; In the second direction, the first length of the first opening and the second length of the second opening are different from each other.

2. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the second length is shorter than the first length.

3. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the second opening is defined on the upper surface of the folding portion, and when viewed in a plan view, the second opening overlaps the first opening and is positioned within the first opening, and the first and second openings are defined continuously.

4. In paragraph 1, A display device in which a first width of the first opening in the first direction gradually decreases toward the top, and a second width of the second opening in the first direction gradually decreases toward the top.

5. In paragraph 4, A display device wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

6. In paragraph 4, A display device in which the reduction rate of the first width is variable and the reduction rate of the second width is constant.

7. In paragraph 1, A display device, wherein, in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the first depth of the first opening is greater than the second depth of the second opening.

8. In paragraph 7, A display device in which the ratio of the first depth and the second depth is 6:

4.

9. In paragraph 7, A display device in which a maximum width of a first width of the first opening in the first direction is greater than the first depth, and a maximum width of a second width of the second opening in the second direction is smaller than the second depth.

10. In paragraph 1, The above folding part, a first inner surface defining the first opening and having a curved shape; and A display device defining the second opening and including a second inner surface having a linearly inclined surface.

11. In paragraph 10, The surface roughness of the first inner surface and the surface roughness of the second inner surface are different display devices.

12. In paragraph 10, A display device wherein the folding portion further includes a protrusion protruding downward from the first inner surface, adjacent to a boundary between the first inner surface and the second inner surface.

13. In paragraph 10, A display device in which, when viewed from the second direction, the first opening has a convex shape upward and the second opening has a trapezoidal shape.

14. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the first opening is formed by processing a portion of the folding portion with an etching solution, and the second opening is formed by processing another portion of the folding portion with a laser beam.

15. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the display module includes an adhesive layer attached to the support plate, and the adhesive layer is arranged to overlap the folding portion.

16. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the width of the first opening in the first direction gradually decreases toward the top, and the width of the second opening in the first direction gradually increases toward the top.

17. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a third opening defined on the upper surface of the folding portion, wherein the second opening is defined between the first opening and the third opening, A display device in which the width of the third opening in the first direction gradually decreases toward the bottom.

18. In paragraph 1, A display device in which, in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the first depth of the first opening is smaller than the second depth of the second opening.

19. In paragraph 18, A display device in which the ratio of the first depth and the second depth is 4:

6.

20. In paragraph 1, In a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the first opening is defined is defined as the first thickness, and the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the second opening is defined is defined as the second thickness. A display device wherein the ratio of the second thickness and the first thickness is 7:3 to 3:

7.

21. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the above opening is opened toward both sides of the folding part that are opposite to each other in the second direction.

22. In paragraph 1, On the lower surface of the above folding portion, a dummy opening is further defined, extending from the first opening in the second direction and having a width smaller than the first opening in the first direction. A display device in which the above dummy opening does not overlap the above second opening.

23. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the maximum width of the first opening in the first direction is smaller than the depth of the first opening in the direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions.

24. A display module including a non-folding region and a folding region arranged in a first direction; and A support plate including a folding portion overlapping the above folding area, In the above folding portion, an opening extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is defined, The above opening is, A first opening defined on the lower surface of the above folding portion; and including a second opening defined on the upper surface of the above folding portion, In the second direction, the first length of the first opening and the second length of the second opening are different from each other, A display device in which the first depth of the first opening and the second depth of the second opening are different in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions.

25. In paragraph 24, A display device wherein the second length is smaller than the first length and the first depth is larger than the second depth.

26. In paragraph 24, A display device wherein the first depth is smaller than the second depth.

27. A display module including a non-folding region and a folding region arranged in a first direction; and A support plate including a folding portion overlapping the above folding area, In the above folding portion, an opening extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is defined, The above opening is, A first opening defined on the lower surface of the above folding portion; and including a second opening defined on the upper surface of the above folding portion, A display device in which, with respect to the first direction, a first width of the first opening is larger than a second width of the second opening, each of the first width and the second width gradually decreases toward the top, a rate of decrease of the first width is variable, and a rate of decrease of the second width is constant.

28. A display device including a display module; and Includes an electronic module that controls the operation of the above display module, The above display device, A display module including a non-folding region and a folding region arranged in a first direction; and A support plate including a folding portion overlapping the above folding area, In the above folding portion, an opening extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is defined, The above opening is, A first opening defined on the lower surface of the above folding portion; and comprising a second opening defined on the first opening; In the second direction, the first length of the first opening and the second length of the second opening are different from each other in the electronic device.

29. In paragraph 28, An electronic device wherein, in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions, a first depth of the first opening is smaller than a second depth of the second opening.

30. In paragraph 29, An electronic device wherein the ratio of the first depth and the second depth is 4:

6.

31. In paragraph 28, In a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the first opening is defined is defined as the first thickness, and the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the second opening is defined is defined as the second thickness. An electronic device wherein the ratio of the second thickness and the first thickness is 7:3 to 3:

7.

32. Folding part; and Including a non-folding portion adjacent to the above folding portion, In the above folding portion, an opening extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction is defined, The above opening is, A first opening defined on the lower surface of the above folding portion; and comprising a second opening defined on the first opening; In the second direction, the first length of the first opening and the second length of the second opening are different support plates.

33. In paragraph 32, A support plate, in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, wherein the first depth of the first opening is smaller than the second depth of the second opening.

34. In paragraph 33, A support plate having a ratio of the first depth and the second depth of 4:

6.

35. In paragraph 32, In a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the first opening is defined is defined as the first thickness, and the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the second opening is defined is defined as the second thickness. A support plate having a ratio of the second thickness and the first thickness of 7:3 to 3:

7.

36. A step of preparing a support plate and a photoresist having an opening defined therein and arranged on the lower surface of the support plate and overlapping the folding portion of the support plate; A step of defining a first opening on the lower surface of the folding part by supplying an etching solution to the lower surface of the folding part through the opening of the photoresist; and A step of defining a second opening penetrating the upper surface of the folding portion by irradiating a laser beam toward the first opening under the folding portion, In the second direction, the first length of the first opening and the second length of the second opening are different from each other, A method for manufacturing a support plate, wherein the first depth of the first opening and the second depth of the second opening are different from each other in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions.

37. In paragraph 36, A method for manufacturing a support plate, wherein, in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second directions, a first depth of the first opening is smaller than a second depth of the second opening.

38. In paragraph 37, A method for manufacturing a support plate, wherein the ratio of the first depth and the second depth is 4:

6.

39. In paragraph 36, In a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first and second directions, the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the first opening is defined is defined as the first thickness, and the thickness of the portion of the folding portion where the second opening is defined is defined as the second thickness. A method for manufacturing a support plate, wherein the ratio of the second thickness and the first thickness is 7:3 to 3:7.

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