Window protective film, display device including same, and electronic device including same

Abstract

This window protective film comprises: a shock absorbing layer including an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less; a base layer disposed on the shock absorbing layer; and a hard coating layer disposed on the base layer.

Description

Window protection film, display device including the same, and electronic device including the same

[0001] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a window protection film and a display device including the same. More particularly, one or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a window protection film designed to protect a window layer for a display device and a display device including the same.

[0002] As information technology advances, the importance of display devices, which serve as a link between users and information, is growing. Consequently, the use of display devices such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting displays (OLEDs), and plasma displays (PVDs) is increasing.

[0003] Recently, flexible displays capable of transforming into one or more suitable forms have been developed. Unlike flat panel displays, flexible displays can be folded, bent, or rolled like paper, enhancing portability and user convenience. Among these flexible displays, foldable displays are attracting attention due to their ability to be repeatedly folded and unfolded.

[0004] One or more aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to window protection films having improved (e.g., enhanced) impact resistance.

[0005] One or more aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure provide a display device including the window protection film.

[0006] However, the purpose of the present invention is not limited to this purpose, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a window protection film may include an impact-absorbing layer comprising an acrylic resin and having a modulus of about 300 MPa or less, a substrate layer disposed on the impact-absorbing layer, and a hard coating layer disposed on the substrate layer.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer may range from about 1 MPa to about 200 MPa at room temperature.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer may range from about 1 MPa to about 300 MPa at about -20°C.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the thickness of the shock absorbing layer may range from about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 30 micrometers (μm).

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the shock absorbing layer may be coated on a lower layer or bottom surface of the substrate layer and may be directly disposed on the lower layer or bottom surface of the substrate layer.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the substrate layer can range from about 5,000 MPa to about 6,000 MPa.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the substrate layer may comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0014] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device may include a display panel including a display area in which a plurality of pixels are arranged, a window layer disposed on the display panel, and a window protection film including an impact-absorbing layer disposed on the window layer, the impact-absorbing layer including an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less, a substrate layer disposed on the impact-absorbing layer, and a hard coating layer disposed on the substrate layer.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer may range from 1 MPa to 200 MPa at room temperature.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer may range from about 1 MPa to about 300 MPa at about -20°C.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the thickness of the shock absorbing layer may range from about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 30 micrometers (μm).

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the shock absorbing layer may be coated on a lower layer or bottom surface of the substrate layer facing the display panel and may be directly disposed on the lower layer or bottom surface of the substrate layer.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the substrate layer can range from about 5,000 MPa to about 6,000 MPa.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the substrate layer may comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the window layer may include ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the display device may further include a first adhesive member that attaches the window layer and the window protection film to each other and includes a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA).

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the first adhesive member may be in a range of about 0.2 MPa or less.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the display device may further include a polarizing member disposed between the display panel and the window layer, and a second adhesive member that attaches the polarizing member and the window layer to each other and includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the display area may include a foldable area having flexibility and a non-foldable area adjacent to at least one side of the foldable area.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the display device further includes a support plate disposed on a first side of the display panel, and the window layer and the window protection film may be disposed on a second side of the display panel opposite to the first side.

[0027] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a display panel including a display area in which a plurality of pixels are arranged, a window layer positioned on the display panel, and a window protection film including an impact-absorbing layer positioned on the window layer, the impact-absorbing layer including an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less, a substrate layer positioned on the impact-absorbing layer, and a hard coating layer positioned on the substrate layer, and a processor configured to control the display device by providing an image data signal and an input control signal to the display device.

[0028] A window protection film according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include an impact-absorbing layer comprising an acrylic resin and having a modulus within a predetermined range, a base layer disposed on the impact-absorbing layer, and a hard coating layer disposed on the base layer. Accordingly, the impact resistance of the window protection film is improved, and at the same time, the window protection film may have a relatively thin thickness. As a result, the folding characteristics of the display device may not be deteriorated, and the overall thickness of the display device may be reduced, thereby realizing a slimmer display device. For example, the window protection film may include an impact-absorbing layer made of an acrylic resin having a specific modulus range, a base layer disposed on the impact-absorbing layer, and a hard coating layer disposed on the base layer. This structure improves the impact resistance of the window protection film while maintaining a relatively thin thickness. As a result, the folding characteristics of the display device are maintained, and the overall thickness of the display device is further reduced, thereby realizing a slimmer display device.

[0029] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIGS. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views each showing a folding state of the display device of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating the support plate of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the window protection film of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating electronic devices according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, a window protection film and a display device including the window protection film according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail. Identical components in the drawings will be designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions of identical components will not be provided for the sake of brevity.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are cross-sectional views each illustrating a folded state of the display device of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, a display device (DD) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be divided into a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The non-display area (NDA) may be located around the display area (DA). For example, in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the non-display area (NDA) may surround at least a portion of the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may be an area capable of generating light or displaying an image by controlling the transmittance of light provided from an external light source. The non-display area (NDA) may be an area that does not display an image.

[0041] The display device (DD) may have at least a portion that is flexible and may be folded in a portion that is flexible (i.e., a foldable area (FA)). For example, in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the display area (DA) may include the foldable area (FA) that can be bent by an external force so that the display device (DD) can be folded, and the first and second non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) that are adjacent to at least one side of the foldable area (FA) and do not fold. For example, in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the foldable area (FA) may have a folding line (FL) that extends along the second direction (DR2). Here, the non-folding area is referred to as a non-folding area, but this is for the convenience of explanation, and the expression "non-folding" may include not only a case where it is rigid and inflexible, but also a case where it is flexible but has less flexibility than the foldable area (FA) and does not fold. For example, the non-folding region is called a "non-folding region", and these regions may include a rigid region that lacks flexibility, or a flexible region that does not fold due to less flexibility than the foldable region (FA).

[0042] The display area (DA) may be divided into a first display area (DA1) and a second display area (DA2). For example, in one or more embodiments, the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) may be adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2). The first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) may be continuously connected to form substantially one display area (DA). For example, in one or more embodiments, when the display area (DA) is folded along the folding line (FL), the display device (DD) may have an in-folding structure such that the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) face each other, as illustrated in FIG. 2. In one or more embodiments, when the display area (DA) is folded along the folding line (FL), the display device (DD) may have an out-folding structure in which the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) are arranged on the outside, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0043] In addition, although the display device (DD) is illustrated in FIG. 1 as having one foldable area (FA), the display device (DD) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited to having one foldable area (FA). For example, in one or more embodiments, the display device (DD) may have multiple foldable areas so as to be foldable multiple times or to implement a rollable display device.

[0044] In the present disclosure, a plane may be defined by a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). For example, the second direction (DR2) may be perpendicular to the first direction (DR1). Additionally, a third direction (DR3) may be perpendicular to the plane.

[0045] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of FIG. 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, in one or more embodiments, the display device (DD) may include a display panel (DP), a polarizing member (POL), a window layer (WL), a window protection film (PF), first to fourth adhesive members (AM1, AM2, AM3, AM4), a panel protection film (LPF), and a support plate (SM).

[0047] The polarizing member (POL) may be arranged on the display panel (DP). The display panel (DP) may include a plurality of pixels that generate light. The polarizing member (POL) may block external light incident on the display panel (DP). In one or more embodiments, the polarizing member (POL) may not be provided. In these embodiments, the display panel (DP) may include a color filter layer including a black matrix and color filters on an encapsulation layer (for example, the encapsulation layer (ENC) of FIG. 7).

[0048] The window layer (WL) may be disposed on the polarizing member (POL). The window layer (WL) may be disposed on the second surface (S2) of the display panel (DP). The window layer (WL) may protect the display panel (DP). The window layer (WL) may have a transmissive portion corresponding to the display area (DA). The window layer (WL) may include a polymer material, a glass thin film, or the like so as to be bendable.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the window layer (WL) may include ultra-thin tempered glass (Ultra-Thin Glass, UTG). The ultra-thin tempered glass may be tempered to have a predetermined and / or suitable stress profile therein. The ultra-thin tempered glass may be more resistant to cracking, crack propagation, breakage, etc. due to external impact than before tempering. In one or more embodiments, the ultra-thin tempered glass may have one or more suitable stresses in each region through the tempering process.

[0050] For example, in one or more embodiments, the ultra-thin tempered glass of the window layer (WL) may be a thin film glass that has been chemically tempered to have high strength. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and for example, in one or more embodiments, the ultra-thin tempered glass of the window layer (WL) may be a thin film glass that has been thermally tempered.

[0051] When the glass is composed of an ultra-thin film or a thin film, it may have flexible characteristics and may have properties such as being able to be bent, folded, or rolled. For example, in one or more embodiments, the window layer (WL) may include glass such as soda lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, lithium alumina silicate glass, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and the window layer (WL) may include one or more suitable types of glass.

[0052] The window protection film (PF) may be disposed on the window layer (WL). The window protection film (PF) may protect the window layer (WL) from external impact. In addition, the window protection film (PF) may prevent, reduce, or minimize scratches on the upper surface of the window layer (WL). The window protection film (PF) may perform at least one of the functions of preventing scattering, absorbing impact, preventing imprints, preventing or reducing fingerprints, and preventing or reducing glare of the window layer (WL). A specific description of the window protection film (PF) will be provided below.

[0053] The first adhesive member (AM1) may be disposed between the window layer (WL) and the window protection film (PF). The first adhesive member (AM1) may attach the window layer (WL) and the window protection film (PF) to each other. For example, the first adhesive member (AM1) may include an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), a photocurable resin, or a thermosetting resin. In one or more embodiments, the first adhesive member (AM1) may include a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0054] For example, the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the first adhesive member (AM1) may include an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, a urethane resin, an epoxy resin, a rubber resin, a polyester resin, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, the modulus (i.e., storage modulus) of the first adhesive member (AM1) may have a range of about 0.2 MPa or less. When the modulus of the first adhesive member (AM1) satisfies the above range, the bending reliability of the display device (DD) may be improved.

[0056] The second adhesive member (AM2) may be disposed between the window layer (WL) and the polarizing member (POL). The second adhesive member (AM2) may attach the window layer (WL) and the polarizing member (POL) to each other. For example, the second adhesive member (AM2) may include an optically transparent adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a photocurable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In one or more embodiments, the second adhesive member (AM2) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0057] For example, the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the second adhesive member (AM2) may include an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, a urethane resin, an epoxy resin, a rubber resin, a polyester resin, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, the modulus (i.e., storage modulus) of the second adhesive member (AM2) may have a range of about 0.2 MPa or less. When the modulus of the second adhesive member (AM2) satisfies the above range, the bending reliability of the display device (DD) may be improved.

[0059] The third adhesive member (AM3) may be disposed between the polarizing member (POL) and the display panel (DP). The third adhesive member (AM3) may attach the polarizing member (POL) and the display panel (DP) to each other. For example, the third adhesive member (AM3) may include an optically transparent adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a photocurable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination. In one or more embodiments, the third adhesive member (AM3) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0060] In one embodiment, the modulus (i.e., storage modulus) of the third adhesive member (AM3) may have a range of about 0.2 MPa or less. When the modulus of the third adhesive member (AM3) satisfies the above range, the bending reliability of the display device (DD) may be improved.

[0061] For example, the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the third adhesive member (AM3) may include an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, a urethane resin, an epoxy resin, a rubber resin, a polyester resin, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0062] The panel protection film (LPF) may be disposed on the first side (S1) of the display panel (DP) opposite to the second side (S2). The panel protection film (LPF) may overlap the foldable area (FA) and the non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2). The panel protection film (LPF) may protect the bottom surface (i.e., the first side (S1)) of the display panel (DP) from external impact. The panel protection film (LPF) may include a flexible plastic material. For example, in one or more embodiments, the panel protection film (LPF) may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET). However, the embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0063] The support plate (SM) may be disposed under the panel protection film (LPF). For example, in one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may be disposed to face the first side (S1) of the display panel (DP). The support plate (SM) may serve to support the display panel (DP). In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may serve to assist in folding the display panel (DP). In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may prevent or reduce foreign substances from entering the display panel (DP) from the outside. In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may release or disperse heat generated in the display panel (DP).

[0064] The rigidity of the above support plate (SM) may be greater than the rigidity of the display panel (DP). Therefore, the support plate (SM) can prevent or reduce deformation of the display panel (DP) due to external force from the user, etc.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may include the first support portion (SSP1), the second support portion (SSP2), and the stretchable portion (SP). The stretchable portion (SP) may be positioned between the first support portion (SSP1) and the second support portion (SSP2). The stretchable portion (SP) may overlap the foldable area (FA), the first support portion (SSP1) may overlap the first non-folding area (NFA1), and the second support portion (SSP2) may overlap the second non-folding area (NFA2). Accordingly, the first and second support portions (SSP1, SSP2) may support portions of the display panel (DP) that overlap the first and second non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2), respectively, and the stretchable portion (SP) may assist in folding the display panel (DP).

[0066] The above-mentioned elastic portion (SP) may have elasticity corresponding to the folding and unfolding of the display device (DD). However, although FIG. 4 illustrates a single elastic portion (SP), the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in one or more embodiments, the elastic portion (SP) may be formed in multiple pieces. A detailed description of the elastic portion (SP) will be provided below.

[0067] For example, in one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may include a metal, an alloy, or the like. In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may include stainless steel (SUS), aluminum, a copper alloy, a magnesium alloy, a titanium alloy, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0068] In one or more embodiments, the support plate (SM) may comprise glass or plastic. For example, the support plate (SM) may comprise carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), or the like. However, embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited thereto, and the support plate (SM) may comprise one or more suitable materials.

[0069] The fourth adhesive member (AM4) may be disposed between the panel protection film (LPF) and the support plate (SM). The fourth adhesive member (AM4) may attach the panel protection film (LPF) and the support plate (SM) to each other. In one or more embodiments, the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may overlap the non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) without overlapping the foldable area (FA). For example, in one or more embodiments, the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may be divided into a first portion (AM4a) overlapping the first non-folding area (NFA1) and a second portion (AM4b) overlapping the second non-folding area (NFA2).

[0070] For example, the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may include an optically transparent adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a photocurable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination. In one or more embodiments, the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0071] For example, the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may include an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, a urethane resin, an epoxy resin, a rubber resin, a polyester resin, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0072] In one or more embodiments, the modulus (i.e., storage modulus) of the fourth adhesive member (AM4) may have a range of about 0.2 MPa or less. When the modulus of the fourth adhesive member (AM4) satisfies the above range, the bending reliability of the display device (DD) may be improved.

[0073] As described above, the display device (DD) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can be folded or unfolded, and thus the display panel (DP), the polarizing member (POL), the window layer (WL), the window protection film (PF), the first to fourth adhesive members (AM1, AM2, AM3, AM4), the panel protection film (LPF), and the support plate (SM) can each have flexibility.

[0074] In one or more embodiments, the display device (DD) may further include a substructure disposed beneath the support plate (SM). For example, the substructure may further include at least one of an elastic member, a metal plate, a heat dissipation member, or a digitizer. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0075] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating the support plate of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, as described above, the support plate (SM) may include the first support portion (SSP1), the second support portion (SSP2), and the elastic portion (SP). In one or more embodiments, the elastic portion (SP) may have a plurality of openings (HL) defined therein that are spaced apart from or separated from each other. The plurality of openings (HL) may be formed by removing a portion of the elastic portion (SP) through an etching process or a punching process.

[0077] Each of the plurality of openings (HL) may have a shape extending in the first direction (DR1). For example, in one or more embodiments, the major axis of each of the plurality of openings (HL) may be parallel to the first direction (DR1).

[0078] The plurality of openings (HL) may have the same planar shape. For example, in one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of openings (HL) may have a rectangular planar shape. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto, and each of the plurality of openings (HL) may have one or more suitable planar shapes.

[0079] The plurality of openings (HL) may be arranged along the second direction (DR2). For example, in one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of openings (HL) may have a predetermined length (l1). In addition, the plurality of openings (HL) arranged in the same row may be spaced apart or separated by a predetermined interval (l2). The plurality of openings (HL) arranged in the same row may be arranged parallel to or offset from the plurality of openings (HL) arranged in another adjacent row. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited thereto, and the arrangement of the plurality of openings (HL) may be changed in one or more suitable ways.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the window protection film of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 6, the window protection film (PF) may include a substrate layer (BL) and a hard coating layer (HCL).

[0082] The substrate layer (BL) may include a flexible plastic material. For example, in one or more embodiments, the substrate layer (BL) may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyacrylate (PAR), polyethersulfone (PS), polyetherimide (PEI), polycarbonate (PC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), triacetyl cellulose (TAC), cycloolefin, epoxy, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In one or more embodiments, the substrate layer (BL) may include polyethylene terephthalate.

[0083] In one or more embodiments, the modulus (i.e., Young's modulus) of the substrate layer (BL) may range from about 5,000 MPa to about 6,000 MPa. When the modulus of the substrate layer (BL) satisfies the above range, the impact resistance of the window protection film (PL) may be improved.

[0084] The hard coating layer (HCL) may be disposed on the substrate layer (BL). The hard coating layer (HCL) may reinforce the rigidity of the window layer (WL) and provide a flat upper surface. The hard coating layer (HCL) may include a curable resin. For example, in one or more embodiments, the curable resin may include an acrylate-based compound, a siloxane compound, a silsesquioxane compound, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination. In one or more embodiments, the hard coating layer (HCL) may further include a functional layer, such as an anti-fingerprint layer or an anti-static layer.

[0085] In one or more embodiments, the window protection film (PF) may further include a shock absorbing layer (SAL) disposed under the substrate layer (BL). For example, in one or more embodiments, the shock absorbing layer (SAL) may be coated on a lower surface of the substrate layer (BL) facing the second surface (S2) of the display panel (DP) and may be directly disposed on the lower surface of the substrate layer (BL). The shock absorbing layer (SAL) may improve the impact resistance of the window layer (WL) and the window protection film (PF). In addition, due to the shock absorbing layer (SAL), the thickness of the window protection film (PF) may be formed relatively thin, and thus, folding of the foldable area (FA) may become easier.

[0086] In one or more embodiments, the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may include an acrylic resin. For example, the acrylic resin may include polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylic acid, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination. However, embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited thereto, and the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may include one or more suitable types of acrylic resins.

[0087] The modulus (i.e., storage modulus) of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may have different ranges depending on the temperature. In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may have a range of about 1 MPa to about 200 MPa at room temperature (i.e., about 25° C.). If the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) is less than about 1 MPa at the room temperature, the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF) may be weakened. In this case, the display panel (DP) may be damaged by an external impact. In addition, if the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) is less than about 1 MPa at the room temperature, the overall thickness of the window protection film (PF) may need to be increased to prevent or reduce the weakening of the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF). In this case, the overall thickness of the display device (DD) increases, making it difficult to realize a slimmer display device (DD). When the modulus of the shock absorbing layer (SAL) exceeds about 200 MPa at room temperature, the folding characteristics of the foldable area (FA) may deteriorate and reliability may be reduced.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may range from about 1 MPa to about 300 MPa at a low temperature (e.g., about -20°C). If the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) is less than about 1 MPa at the low temperature, the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF) may be weakened. In this case, the display panel (DP) may be damaged by an external impact. In addition, if the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) is less than about 1 MPa at the low temperature, the overall thickness of the window protection film (PF) may need to be increased to prevent or reduce the weakening of the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF). In this case, the overall thickness of the display device (DD) increases, making it difficult to realize a slimmer display device (DD). When the modulus of the shock absorbing layer (SAL) exceeds about 300 MPa at the low temperature, the folding characteristics of the foldable area (FA) may deteriorate and reliability may be reduced.

[0089] As a result, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer (SAL) may range from about 300 MPa or less. In one or more embodiments, the modulus of the shock absorbing layer (SAL) may range from about 1 MPa to about 300 MPa or less.

[0090] In one or more embodiments, the thickness (TH) of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) may range from about 20 micrometers (μm) to about 30 micrometers (μm). When the thickness (TH) of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) is less than about 20 micrometers (μm), the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF) may be weakened. When the thickness (TH) of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) exceeds about 30 micrometers (μm), the folding characteristics of the foldable area (FA) may be deteriorated.

[0091] As described above, the window protection film (PF) protecting the window layer (WL) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) containing an acrylic resin and having a modulus in a predetermined range, the base layer (BL) disposed on the shock-absorbing layer (SAL), and the hard coating layer (HCL) disposed on the base layer (BL). Accordingly, the impact resistance of the window protection film (PF) is improved, and at the same time, the window protection film (PF) may have a relatively thin thickness. In these embodiments, the folding characteristics of the display device (DD) may not be deteriorated, and the overall thickness of the display device (DD) may be reduced, thereby realizing slimming of the display device (DD).

[0092] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the display area (DA) of the display panel (DP) of FIG. 4 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 7, the display panel (DP) may include a substrate (SUB), a buffer layer (BFL), a gate insulating layer (GI), a transistor (TR), an interlayer insulating layer (ILD), a via insulating layer (VIA), a pixel defining layer (PDL), a light emitting element (LED), and an encapsulation layer (ENC). Here, the transistor (TR) may include an active pattern (ACT), a gate electrode (GAT), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE), and the light emitting element (LED) may include an anode electrode (ADE), an emitting layer (EL), and a cathode electrode (CTE).

[0094] The buffer layer (BFL) may be disposed on the substrate (SUB). The buffer layer (BFL) may prevent or reduce the phenomenon of metal atoms or impurities diffusing from the substrate (SUB) to the transistor (TR). In addition, the buffer layer (BFL) may improve the flatness of the surface of the substrate (SUB) when the surface of the substrate (SUB) is not uniform. For example, in one or more embodiments, the buffer layer (BFL) may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO). x ), silicon nitride (SiN x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ) may include inorganic substances such as these. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0095] The active pattern (ACT) may be arranged on the buffer layer (BFL). The active pattern (ACT) may include a metal oxide semiconductor, an inorganic semiconductor (e.g., amorphous silicon, polysilicon, etc.), an organic semiconductor, etc. The active pattern (ACT) may include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region positioned between the source region and the drain region.

[0096] The above metal oxide semiconductor is a binary compound (AB) containing indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), magnesium (Mg), etc. x ), ternary compounds (AB x C y ), tetrameric compounds (AB x C y D z ) may include, for example, zinc oxide (ZnO) x )(e.g. ZnO or ZnO2), gallium oxide (GaO x), tin oxide (SnO x ), indium oxide (InO x ), indium gallium oxide (IGO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO), indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0097] The gate insulating layer (GI) may be disposed on the buffer layer (BFL). In one or more embodiments, the gate insulating layer (GI) may sufficiently cover the active pattern (ACT) and may have a substantially flat upper surface without generating a step around the active pattern (ACT). In one or more embodiments, the gate insulating layer (GI) may cover the active pattern (ACT) and may be disposed along the profile of the active pattern (ACT) with a substantially uniform thickness. For example, the gate insulating layer (GI) may be formed of silicon oxide (SiO). x ), silicon nitride (SiN x ), silicon carbide (SiC) x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ), silicon dioxide (SiO x C y ) may include inorganic substances such as these. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0098] The gate electrode (GAT) may be disposed on the gate insulating layer (GI). The gate electrode (GAT) may overlap the channel region of the active pattern (ACT). The gate electrode (GAT) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, etc. Non-limiting examples of the metal include silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), platinum (Pt), scandium (Sc), etc. Non-limiting examples of the conductive metal oxide include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, etc. In addition, a non-limiting example of the metal nitride includes aluminum nitride (AlN). x ), tungsten nitride (WN x ), chromium nitride (CrN x ) etc. These can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0099] An interlayer insulating layer (ILD) may be disposed on the gate insulating layer (GI). In one or more embodiments, the interlayer insulating layer (ILD) may sufficiently cover the gate electrode (GAT) and may have a substantially flat upper surface without forming a step around the gate electrode (GAT). In one or more embodiments, the interlayer insulating layer (ILD) may cover the gate electrode (GAT) and may be disposed along the profile of the gate electrode (GAT) with a substantially uniform thickness. For example, the interlayer insulating layer (ILD) may include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, silicon oxynitride, or silicon oxycarbide. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0100] The source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer (ILD). The source electrode (SE) may be connected to the source region of the active pattern (ACT) through a contact hole penetrating the gate insulating layer (GI) and a first portion of the interlayer insulating layer (ILD), and the drain electrode (DE) may be connected to the drain region of the active pattern (ACT) through a contact hole penetrating the gate insulating layer (GI) and a second portion of the interlayer insulating layer (ILD). For example, each of the source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0101] Accordingly, the transistor (TR) including the active pattern (ACT), the gate electrode (GAT), the source electrode (SE), and the drain electrode (DE) can be placed in a display area (e.g., the display area (DA) of FIG. 1) on the substrate (SUB).

[0102] The via insulation layer (VIA) may be disposed on the interlayer insulation layer (ILD). In one or more embodiments, the via insulation layer (VIA) may sufficiently cover the source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE). The via insulation layer (VIA) may include an inorganic material or an organic material. In one or more embodiments, the via insulation layer (VIA) may include an organic material. For example, the via insulation layer (VIA) may include an organic material such as a phenolic resin, a polyacrylate resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, a siloxane resin, an epoxy resin, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0103] The anode electrode (ADE) may be disposed on the via insulating layer (VIA). The anode electrode (ADE) may be connected to the drain electrode (DE) (or the source electrode (SE)) through a contact hole penetrating the via insulating layer (VIA). For example, the anode electrode (ADE) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In one or more embodiments, the anode electrode (ADE) may have a laminated structure including ITO / Ag / ITO. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0104] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may be disposed on the via insulating layer (VIA). The pixel defining layer (PDL) may cover an edge of the anode electrode (ADE). In addition, an opening exposing at least a portion of an upper surface of the anode electrode (ADE) may be defined in the pixel defining layer (PDL). For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an inorganic material or an organic material. In one or more embodiments, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an organic material such as an epoxy resin, a siloxane resin, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In another embodiment, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an inorganic material and / or an organic material containing a light-blocking material such as a black pigment or a black dye.

[0105] The light-emitting layer (EL) may be disposed on the anode electrode (ADE). For example, the light-emitting layer (EL) may be disposed in the opening of the pixel defining layer (PDL). The light-emitting layer (EL) may include a light-emitting material that emits light of a preset color. For example, in one or more embodiments, the light-emitting layer (EL) may include a light-emitting material that emits red light, green light, or blue light.

[0106] The cathode electrode (CTE) may be disposed on the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the light emitting layer (EL). For example, the cathode electrode (CTE) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, or the like. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0107] Accordingly, the light-emitting element (LED) including the anode electrode (ADE), the light-emitting layer (EL) and the cathode electrode (CTE) can be arranged in the display area on the substrate (SUB). The light-emitting element (LED) can be electrically connected to the transistor (TR). Accordingly, the light-emitting element (LED) can receive a driving signal from the transistor (TR) and generate light based on the driving signal.

[0108] The encapsulation layer (ENC) may be disposed on the cathode electrode (CTE). The encapsulation layer (ENC) may protect the light-emitting element (LED) from foreign substances such as moisture, oxygen, etc. For example, the encapsulation layer (ENC) may include at least one inorganic layer and at least one organic layer. In one or more embodiments, the encapsulation layer (ENC) may have a laminated structure of a first inorganic layer, an organic layer, and a second inorganic layer.

[0109] Hereinafter, the effects and advantages of the present disclosure according to comparative examples and embodiments will be described.

[0110] Comparative Example 1 and Example 1

[0111] In Comparative Example 1, a display device having substantially the same structure as the display device (DD) was manufactured, except that the shock absorbing layer (SAL) of FIG. 6 was omitted.

[0112] In Example 1, the display device (DD) was manufactured by sequentially attaching the polarizing member (POL), the window layer (WL), and the window protection film (PF) on the display panel (DP). In this Example, the window layer (WL) was manufactured using ultra-thin tempered glass, and the window protection film (PF) was manufactured by forming the hard coating layer (HCL) by coating a curable resin on the upper surface of the substrate layer (BL) including PET, and forming the impact-absorbing layer (SAL) by coating an acrylic resin on the lower surface of the substrate layer (BL). The modulus of the impact-absorbing layer (SAL) was about 93 MPa at about 20°C, about 240 MPa at a low temperature (i.e., about -20°C), and the thickness was about 25 micrometers (㎛).

[0113] To evaluate impact resistance, a "ball drop" experiment was conducted. For this purpose, a ball was dropped onto the display device. The "ball drop" experiment measures the minimum height from which the display device fails when the same ball is dropped onto the display device. In this experiment, the ball had a mass of approximately 21.7 g and a diameter of approximately 17.5 mm.

[0114] Comparative Example 1 Example 1 Drop height Foldable area 11 cm 19 cm Non-folding area 14 cm 19 cm

[0115] As a result, referring to Table 1 above, it can be confirmed that the minimum height at which a defect occurs in the foldable area of ​​the display device satisfying Comparative Example 1 is about 11 cm, and the minimum height at which a defect occurs in the non-folding area of ​​the display device is about 14 cm. In contrast, it can be confirmed that the minimum height at which a defect occurs in the foldable area (FA) of the display device (DD) satisfying Example 1 is about 19 cm, and the minimum height at which a defect occurs in the non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) of the display device (DD) is about 19 cm.

[0116] Through this, it can be confirmed that the display device (DD) satisfying the above embodiment 1 has excellent or suitable impact resistance compared to the display device satisfying the above comparative example 1.

[0117] Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3

[0118] In Manufacturing Example 1, a display device having substantially the same structure as the display device (DD) satisfying Example 1 was manufactured, except that a coating layer containing an acrylic resin was included instead of the window protection film (PF). Referring to Table 2, the modulus of the coating layer was about 620 MPa at room temperature (i.e., about 25°C) and about 1,438 MPa at a low temperature (e.g., about -20°C), and the thickness was about 70 micrometers (㎛).

[0119] In Manufacturing Example 2, a display device having substantially the same structure as the display device (DD) satisfying Example 1 was manufactured, except that a coating layer containing an acrylic resin was included instead of the window protection film (PF). Referring to Table 2, the modulus of the coating layer was about 451 MPa at room temperature (i.e., about 25°C) and about 1,010 MPa at a low temperature (e.g., about -20°C), and the thickness was about 70 micrometers (㎛).

[0120] In Manufacturing Example 3, a display device having substantially the same structure as the display device (DD) satisfying Example 1 was manufactured, except that a coating layer containing an acrylic resin was included instead of the window protection film (PF). Referring to Table 2, the modulus of the coating layer was about 82 MPa at room temperature (i.e., about 25°C), about 280 MPa at a low temperature (e.g., about -20°C), and the thickness was about 70 micrometers (㎛).

[0121] Manufacturing Example 1 Manufacturing Example 2 Manufacturing Example 3 Modulus Low temperature 1,438 MPa 1,010 MPa 280 MPa Room temperature 620 MPa 451 MPa 82 MPa

[0122] Experimental Example 1 - Measurement of Folding Repulsion Force and Stress

[0123] In the display devices according to Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3, the folding repulsive force of the display device and the stress applied to the window layer of the display device were measured, as shown in Table 3 below. In order to measure the folding repulsive force of the display device and the stress applied to the window layer, the folding and unfolding of the display device were repeated tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of times.

[0124] In Table 3, “folding rebound force” is a relative value when the folding rebound force of the display device satisfying Comparative Example 1 is set to 1, and “stress” is a relative value when the stress applied to the window layer satisfying Comparative Example 1 is set to 1.

[0125] Experiment 2 - "pen drop" experiment

[0126] In order to evaluate the impact resistance of the display devices according to Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3, a "pen drop" experiment was performed to measure the stress applied to the window layer of the display device (i.e., the first stress in Table 3). For this purpose, a pen was dropped from the display device. The pen was dropped from the same height. In this experiment, the mass of the pen was approximately 5.8 g.

[0127] Experimental Example 3 - "Pen Pressurization" Experiment

[0128] In order to evaluate the impact resistance of the display devices according to Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3, the display devices were pressed with the pen to measure the stress applied to the window layer of the display devices (i.e., the second stress in Table 3). The pen pressed the display devices with the same pressure. In this experiment, the mass of the pen was approximately 5.8 g.

[0129] Experimental Example 4 - "Ball Drop" Experiment

[0130] In the display devices according to Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3, a "ball drop" experiment was performed to evaluate the impact resistance, thereby measuring the strain of the display panel of the display device. The strain refers to the degree of deformation of an object due to an external impact. The strain of the display panel can be defined as the ratio of the amount of deformation of the display panel due to the impact to the initial state of the display panel. For this purpose, a ball was dropped from the display device. The ball was dropped from the same height. In this experiment, the mass of the ball was about 21.7 g, and the diameter was about 17.5 mm.

[0131] Manufacturing Example 1 Manufacturing Example 2 Manufacturing Example 3 Folding rebound force 1.45 1.43 1.4 Window layer stress 1.00 0.99 0.98 First stress 2,866 MPa 2,824 MPa 2,748 MPa Second stress 1,970 MPa 1,928 MPa 1,843 MPa Strain 1.08 % 1.05 % 0.95 %

[0132] As a result, it can be confirmed that the folding repulsive force and the stress applied to the window layer of the display device satisfying Manufacturing Example 3 are smaller than those of the display devices satisfying Manufacturing Examples 1 and 2. In addition, it can be confirmed that the first stress and the second stress applied to the window layer satisfying Manufacturing Example 3 and the strain of the display panel are smaller than the first stress and the second stress applied to the window layers satisfying Manufacturing Examples 1 and 2 and the strain of the display panels, respectively.

[0133] Through this, it can be confirmed that the display device satisfying the above manufacturing example 3 has excellent or suitable folding characteristics and impact resistance compared to the display devices satisfying the above manufacturing examples 1 and 2.

[0134] As a result, when the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) included in the window protection film (PF) of the display device (DD) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is in a range of about 300 MPa or less at a low temperature (e.g., about -20°C) and in a range of about 200 MPa or less at a room temperature (i.e., about 25°C), it can be confirmed that the folding characteristics and impact resistance of the display device (DD) are excellent or suitable compared to a case where the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer (SAL) exceeds the upper limit of the range.

[0135] In summary, in Comparative Example 1, a display device similar to the display device (DD) except for the shock absorbing layer (SAL) was manufactured.

[0136] In Example 1, the display device (DD) was manufactured using the window protection film (PF) including the polarizing member (POL), the window layer (WL) made of ultra-thin glass, the impact-absorbing layer (SAL), and the hard coating layer (HCL). The modulus of the impact-absorbing layer (SAL) was about 93 MPa at 20°C and about 240 MPa at -20°C, and the thickness was about 25 μm. As a result of the "ball drop" experiment, it can be confirmed that Example 1 exhibits superior impact resistance as compared to Comparative Example 1, with a higher minimum drop height at which a defect occurs.

[0137] In additional experiments, various coating layers were included in place of the window protection film in Manufacturing Examples 1, 2, and 3, and among these, the display device of Manufacturing Example 3 exhibited excellent folding characteristics and impact resistance. These Manufacturing Examples followed the structure of Example 1, but used a different type of coating layer made of an acrylic resin. The experimental results confirmed that an impact-absorbing layer having a modulus of 300 MPa or less at low temperature and 200 MPa or less at room temperature provided excellent folding characteristics and impact resistance.

[0138] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (10) may include a display module (11), a processor (12), a memory (13), and a power module (14).

[0140] A display device according to one or more embodiments (e.g., the display device (DD) of FIG. 1) may be applied to one or more suitable electronic devices (10). The electronic device (10) includes the above-described display device, and may further include a module or device having additional functions in addition to the display device.

[0141] The processor (12) may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller.

[0142] The memory (13) may store data information necessary for the operation of the processor (12) and / or the display module (11). When the processor (12) executes an application stored in the memory (13), an image data signal and / or an input control signal is transmitted to the display module (11), and the display module (11) can process the received signal and output image information through a display screen.

[0143] The power module (14) may include a power supply module such as a power adapter or a battery device, and a power conversion module that converts power supplied by the power supply module to generate power required for the operation of the electronic device (10).

[0144] At least one of the components of the electronic device (10) described above may be included in the display device according to the embodiments described above. For example, some of the individual modules functionally included in one module may be included in the display device, and other parts may be provided separately from the display device. For example, the display device may include a display module (11), and the processor (12), memory (13), and power module (14) may be provided in the form of other devices within the electronic device (10) other than the display device. For example, the processor (12) may be configured to control the display device with an image data signal and an input control signal.

[0145] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 9, one or more suitable electronic devices (10) to which a display device (e.g., a display device (DD) of FIG. 1) according to one or more embodiments is applied may include not only image display electronic devices such as a smart phone (10_1a), a tablet PC (10_1b), a laptop (10_1c), a TV (10_1d), a desk monitor (10_1e), but also wearable electronic devices including a display module such as smart glasses (10_2a), a head-mounted display (10_2b), a smart watch (10_2c), and the like, and vehicle electronic devices (10_3) including a display module such as a CID (Center Information Display) arranged on a dashboard, a center fascia, or a dashboard of an automobile, a room mirror display, and the like.

[0147] The term “modulus” as used herein may mean tensile modulus, Young’s modulus, or storage modulus.

[0148] Unless otherwise defined in this application, the terms “use,” “using,” and “used” may be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “utilizing,” and “utilized,” respectively.

[0149] In this specification, the terms "comprises / comprising," "includes / including," or "have / has / having" specify the presence of stated features, components, steps, acts, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, steps, acts, elements, parts, and / or collections thereof. In addition, the terms "comprises / comprising," "includes / including," "have / has / having," or similar terms are intended to include or support the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of," which specify the presence of stated features, components, steps, acts, elements, and / or parts, but may indicate the non-existence or essentially absence of other components.

[0150] As used herein, the expression "on" an element, such as a layer, region, substrate, or plate, includes not only the case where the element is disposed "directly on" another element, but also the case where another element may be interposed between the two elements. Conversely, when an element is described as being disposed "directly on" the two elements, there must be no intervening elements. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. Unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the words "comprise / include / has" and their variations "comprises / includes / have" or "comprising / including / having" imply the inclusion of the stated elements, but not the exclusion of other elements. The expressions "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from A, B, C," and "at least one selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C" may be interpreted to include each of A, B, C, or any suitable combination of two or more thereof (e.g., ABC, ABB, BC, CC, etc.). The term "and / or" or "or" herein may include one or more combinations of the components.

[0151] Also, although terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein to describe one or more suitable elements, these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, what is described as a first element may also be referred to as a second or third element, and this does not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “one,” and “the” are to be construed to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the expression “may” used when describing embodiments of the present disclosure means “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.”

[0152] Spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" are used herein for descriptive purposes and to indicate relationships to other elements in the drawings. These terms are intended to apply not only to the orientation depicted in the drawings, but also to various orientations in which the device may be used, operated, or manufactured. For example, if the device in the drawings were turned upside down, an element described as being "beneath" or "below" other elements could instead be positioned "above" or "above" the other elements. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the example term "beneath" may encompass both vertical and horizontal orientations. Furthermore, the device may be rotated 90 degrees or positioned in other orientations, and the spatially relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0153] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," or similar terms are not intended to denote the exact degree of a numerical value, but rather to denote an approximation, reflecting the inherent error of a measurement or calculation that is perceptible to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The expression "about" includes the stated value and means within the allowable error of the measurement related to that value, which is within the range that a person of ordinary skill in the art would determine given the value being measured and the limitations of the measurement system. For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0154] The numerical ranges set forth herein are intended to include all subranges of equal precision within that range. For example, a range of "1.0 to 10.0" includes all subranges between (and including) the stated minimum value of 1.0 and the stated maximum value of 10.0, such as "2.4 to 7.6." Furthermore, a stated maximum numerical limit is intended to include all numerical limits below it, and a stated minimum numerical limit is intended to include all numerical limits above it. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification and claims to explicitly recite any subrange within a stated numerical range.

[0155] The display devices, electronic devices / devices, display device manufacturing devices, or other related devices / devices or components described in embodiments according to the present disclosure may be implemented through suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), software, or a combination thereof. For example, various components of the device may be formed on a single integrated circuit (IC) chip, or may be formed on separate IC chips. Furthermore, various components of the device may be formed on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape carrier package (TCP), a printed circuit board (PCB), or a single substrate. Furthermore, various components of the device may be implemented as processes or threads running on one or more processors, which may execute computer program instructions and interact with other system components to perform various functions. These computer program instructions may be stored in a memory implemented as a standard memory device such as a RAM, for example, or may also be stored on a non-volatile computer-readable medium such as a CD-ROM or a flash drive. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the functions of various computing devices may be integrated into a single device, or the functions of a single device may be distributed and implemented on two or more different devices.

[0156] Those skilled in the art will appreciate, throughout this specification, that appropriate features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be partially or fully combined with one another, and may technically interact and operate in various appropriate ways. Unless explicitly or implicitly stated otherwise, each embodiment may be implemented independently or in any suitable combination.

[0157] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

[0158] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to one or more suitable electronic devices capable of including a display device. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to high-resolution smartphones, mobile phones, smart pads, smart watches, tablet PCs, in-vehicle navigation systems, televisions, computer monitors, laptops, and the like.

[0159] <Explanation of symbols>

[0160] DD: Display Device DA: Display Area

[0161] DA1: First display area DA2: Second display area

[0162] FA: Foldable Area

[0163] NFA1, NFA2: first and second unfolded domains

[0164] DP: Display Panel ` POL: Polarization Absence

[0165] WL: Window layer PF: Window protection film

[0166] SAL: Shock absorbing layer BL: Base layer

[0167] HCL: Hard coating layer LPF: Panel protection film

[0168] SM: Support plate AM1: First adhesive member

[0169] AM2: Second adhesive member AM3: Third adhesive member

[0170] AM4: Fourth adhesive member

Claims

1. A shock-absorbing layer containing an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less; a substrate layer disposed on the shock absorbing layer; and A window protection film comprising a hard coating layer disposed on the above substrate layer.

2. A window protection film according to claim 1, characterized in that the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer has a range of 1 MPa to 200 MPa at room temperature.

3. A window protection film according to claim 1, characterized in that the modulus of the shock-absorbing layer has a range of 1 MPa to 300 MPa at -20°C.

4. A window protection film according to claim 1, characterized in that the thickness of the shock-absorbing layer is in the range of 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers.

5. A window protection film characterized in that, in the first paragraph, the shock absorbing layer is coated on the lower surface of the base layer and is directly disposed on the lower surface of the base layer.

6. A window protection film, characterized in that the modulus of the substrate layer in the first paragraph is in the range of 5,000 MPa to 6,000 MPa.

7. A window protection film according to claim 1, characterized in that the substrate layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate.

8. A display panel including a display area in which a plurality of pixels are arranged; A window layer disposed on the above display panel; and It is placed on the above window layer, A shock absorbing layer comprising an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less; a substrate layer disposed on the shock absorbing layer; and A display device comprising a window protection film including a hard coating layer disposed on the above-mentioned substrate layer.

9. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the modulus of the shock absorbing layer has a range of 1 MPa to 200 MPa at room temperature.

10. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the modulus of the shock absorbing layer has a range of 1 MPa to 300 MPa at -20°C.

11. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the thickness of the shock absorbing layer is in a range of 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers.

12. A display device characterized in that in the 8th paragraph, the shock absorbing layer is coated on the lower surface of the substrate layer facing the display panel and is directly disposed on the lower surface of the substrate layer.

13. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the modulus of the substrate layer has a range of 5,000 MPa to 6,000 MPa.

14. A display device according to claim 9, characterized in that the substrate layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate.

15. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the window layer comprises ultra-thin tempered glass.

16. In paragraph 8, further comprising a first adhesive member that attaches the window layer and the window protection film to each other and includes a pressure sensitive adhesive; A display device characterized in that the modulus of the first adhesive member has a range of 0.2 MPa or less.

17. In paragraph 16, a polarizing member disposed between the display panel and the window layer; and A display device characterized in that it further includes a second adhesive member that attaches the polarizing member and the window layer to each other and includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

18. A display device according to claim 8, characterized in that the display area includes a foldable area having flexibility and a non-foldable area adjacent to at least one side of the foldable area.

19. In paragraph 8, Further comprising a support plate disposed on the first surface of the display panel, A display device, characterized in that the window layer and the window protection film are disposed on a second side of the display panel opposite to the first side.

20. A display panel including a display area in which a plurality of pixels are arranged; a window layer positioned on the display panel; and Located on the above window layer, A shock absorbing layer comprising an acrylic resin and having a modulus of 300 MPa or less; a substrate layer positioned on the shock absorbing layer; and A display device including a window protection film including a hard coating layer positioned on the substrate layer; and An electronic device comprising a processor configured to control the display device by providing an image data signal and an input control signal to the display device.

Images