Display panel and electronic device comprising display panel

Abstract

This display panel comprises a first island portion and a second island portion adjacent to each other in a first direction, and a bridge portion for connecting the first island portion and the second island portion. Each of the first and second island portions includes at least one side intersecting a first virtual line, which passes through the centers of the first and second island portions and extends in the first direction. The bridge portion includes a first curved portion, a second curved portion, and a straight line portion between the first curved portion and the second curved portion. The straight line portion can be positioned between a first side of the first island portion and a second side of the second island portion, the sides facing each other, the first curved portion can be connected to a third side of the first island portion intersecting the first side, and the second curved portion can be connected to a fourth side of the second island portion intersecting the second side.

Description

Display panel and electronic device including the display panel

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a display panel, such as a flexible display panel, and an electronic device including a display panel.

[0002] As display panels that visually display electrical signals advance, various display panels with excellent characteristics such as thinness, lightness, and low power consumption are being introduced. For example, flexible display panels that can be folded or rolled into a roll shape are being introduced. Recently, research and development on display panels of various structures, such as stretchable display panels that can change into various shapes, is actively underway.

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a display device, such as a flexible display panel and an electronic device including a display panel.

[0004] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display panel comprising a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area, wherein island portions are mutually spaced apart along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the display area and on which a light-emitting element is disposed; and bridge portions connecting two adjacent island portions among the island portions, wherein the island portions include an adjacent island portion and a second island portion along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first virtual line extending along the first direction passing through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion, and the bridge portion connecting the first island portion and the second island portion among the bridge portions comprises a first curve portion connected to the first island portion; and a second curve portion connected to the second island portion. and includes a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island and the second side of the second island section facing each other, and the first curve section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curve section can be connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

[0005] The first curve section and the second curve section may have a point-symmetric relationship with respect to the center of the straight section.

[0006] The first curve portion may be connected to the third side of the first island portion and positioned adjacent to the corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion, and the second curve portion may be connected to the fourth side of the second island portion and positioned adjacent to the corner between the second side and the fourth side of the second island portion.

[0007] The corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion may include a chamfer.

[0008] Each of the first curve section and the second curve section has the shape of an arc having a central angle, and the angle of the central angle may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

[0009] The width of the first curved section may be substantially the same as the width of the straight section.

[0010] The width of a part of the first curve section may be larger than the width of the straight section.

[0011] The above straight section includes a side facing the first side of the first island section, and the side of the straight section may be substantially parallel to the first side of the first island section.

[0012] The straight section includes a side facing the first side of the first island section, and the side of the straight section may extend along a direction oblique to the first side of the first island section.

[0013] The length of the above straight section may be smaller than the length of the first side of the above first island section.

[0014] The above island sections further include a third island section and a fourth island section arranged along the second direction and positioned adjacent to the first island section and the second island section, and the center of the first island section, the center of the second island section, the center of the third island section, and the center of the fourth island section may each be positioned at the vertices of a virtual quadrilateral.

[0015] The straight line portion of the bridge portion can intersect one side of the virtual rectangle.

[0016] The above imaginary rectangle may include a square or a rhombus.

[0017] The above display panel is extendable, and when the above display panel is extended, the first island part can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis passing through the center of the first island part.

[0018] The first island portion includes pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits, and the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements may be different from each other.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display panel comprising a display area and a non-display area around the display area, wherein the display panel comprises: island portions spaced apart from each other along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the display area; and bridge portions connecting two adjacent island portions among the island portions, wherein the island portions include a first island portion and a second island portion adjacent along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first virtual line extending along the first direction through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion, and the first island portion includes pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits, and the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements are different.

[0020] The arrangement direction of the above light-emitting elements may be the first direction.

[0021] Among the above bridge sections, the bridge section connecting the first island section and the second island section includes a first curve section connected to the first island section; a second curve section connected to the second island section; and a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island section and the second side of the second island section facing each other, and the first curve section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curve section may be connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

[0022] The first curve section and the second curve section may have a point-symmetric relationship with respect to the center of the straight section.

[0023] The first curve portion may be connected to the third side of the first island portion and positioned adjacent to the corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion, and the second curve portion may be connected to the fourth side of the second island portion and positioned adjacent to the corner between the second side and the fourth side of the second island portion.

[0024] The corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion may include a chamfer.

[0025] The width of a part of the first curve section may be larger than the width of the straight section.

[0026] The width of the first curved section may be substantially the same as the width of the straight section.

[0027] Each of the first curve section and the second curve section has the shape of an arc having a central angle, and the angle of the central angle may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

[0028] The above straight section includes a side facing the first side of the first island section, and the side of the straight section may be substantially parallel to the first side of the first island section.

[0029] The straight section includes a side facing the first side of the first island section, and the side of the straight section may extend along a direction oblique to the first side of the first island section.

[0030] The length of the above straight section may be smaller than the length of the first side of the above first island section.

[0031] The above island sections further include a third island section and a fourth island section arranged along the second direction and positioned adjacent to the first island section and the second island section, and the center of the first island section, the center of the second island section, the center of the third island section, and the center of the fourth island section may each be positioned at the vertices of a virtual quadrilateral.

[0032] The above imaginary rectangle may include a square or a rhombus.

[0033] The above display panel is extendable, and when the above display panel is extended, the first island portion can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis passing through the center of the first island portion.

[0034] One embodiment of the present invention discloses an electronic device comprising a display panel according to the aforementioned embodiments and a housing in which the display panel is housed.

[0035] The electronic device may further include a strain sensor that measures a physical quantity according to the stretching of the display panel.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display panel capable of being extended in various directions and an electronic device including the display panel may be provided. The display panel can efficiently utilize space by reducing the area occupied by the bridge portion in the display area. These effects are exemplary, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the effects described above.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIGS. 2A and FIGS. 2B are perspective views showing the display panel of FIG. 1 extended in a first direction.

[0039] FIG. 2c is a perspective view showing the display panel of FIG. 1 extended in a second direction.

[0040] FIG. 2d is a perspective view showing the display panel of FIG. 1 extended in the first direction and the second direction.

[0041] FIG. 2e is a perspective view showing the display panel of FIG. 1 extended in a third direction.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 4a is a plan view of part IV of FIG. 3 as a part of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 4b is a plan view of part IV of FIG. 3 as a part of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 4c is a plan view of part IV of FIG. 3 as a part of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an island portion and a bridge portion disposed in the display area of ​​a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 5b is a schematic plan view showing the arrangement of a light-emitting element and a pixel driving circuit of an island portion placed in a display area of ​​a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIGS. 6a to 6c are equivalent circuit diagrams showing one of the light-emitting elements of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention and a pixel driving circuit electrically connected thereto.

[0049] FIGS. 7a and FIGS. 7b are cross-sectional views schematically showing a light-emitting element of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing island sections and bridge sections arranged in the display area of ​​a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections and a bridge section between them of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections and a bridge section between them of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections and a bridge section between them of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 12 shows the structure of a corner of one island portion of a display panel and a bridge portion around it according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an extended state of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 14a is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device including a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 14b is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device including a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIGS. 15a to 15i are schematic perspective views illustrating embodiments of an electronic device including a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] According to one or more embodiments, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a display panel comprising a display area and a non-display area around the display area, wherein island portions are mutually spaced apart along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the display area and a light-emitting element is disposed therein; and bridge portions connecting two adjacent island portions among the island portions, wherein the island portions include an adjacent island portion and a second island portion along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first virtual line extending along the first direction passing through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion, and the bridge portion connecting the first island portion and the second island portion among the bridge portions comprises a first curve portion connected to the first island portion; and a second curve portion connected to the second island portion. and includes a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island and the second side of the second island section facing each other, and the first curve section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curve section can be connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

[0060] According to one or more embodiments, a display panel comprising a display area and a non-display area around the display area, wherein the display panel comprises: island portions spaced apart from each other along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the display area; and bridge portions connecting two adjacent island portions among the island portions, wherein the island portions include a first island portion and a second island portion adjacent along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side intersecting a first virtual line extending along the first direction through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion, and the first island portion includes pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits, and the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements are different.

[0061] According to one or more embodiments, an electronic device comprising a display panel according to the above embodiments and a housing in which the display panel is housed is disclosed.

[0062] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various forms.

[0063] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0064] In the following embodiments, terms such as first, second, etc. are used not in a limiting sense, but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

[0065] In the following examples, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0066] In the following embodiments, terms such as "include" or "have" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0067] In the following embodiments, when a part such as a film, region, or component is described as being on or above another part, it includes not only cases where it is directly on top of another part, but also cases where another film, region, or component is interposed in between.

[0068] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0069] Where an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously or proceed in the reverse order of the description.

[0070] In this specification, "A and / or B" indicates the case where it is A, B, or both A and B. In some aspects, "at least one of A and B" indicates the case where it is A, B, or both A and B.

[0071] In the following embodiments, when a membrane, region, component, etc. is described as being connected, it includes cases where the membrane, region, or component is directly connected, or / or cases where other membranes, regions, or components are interposed between the membranes, regions, or components to be indirectly connected. For example, when a membrane, region, component, etc. is described as being electrically connected in this specification, it indicates cases where the membrane, region, or component, etc. are directly electrically connected, and / or cases where other membranes, regions, or components are interposed between them to be indirectly electrically connected.

[0072] The x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of an orthogonal coordinate system but can be interpreted in a broader sense that includes them. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be orthogonal to each other, but they may also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other.

[0073] The terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein include specified values ​​and include an appropriate range of deviation from a specific value determined by a person skilled in the art, taking into account the error associated with the measurement of a specific amount and the said measurement. The terms “about” or “approximately” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of a specified value.

[0074] As used herein, the term “substantially” means approximately or actually. The term “substantially identical” means approximately or actually identical. The term “substantially identical” means approximately or actually identical. The term “substantially perpendicular” means approximately or actually perpendicular. The term “substantially parallel” means approximately or actually parallel.

[0075] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a display panel (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b are perspective views showing the display panel (1) of FIG. 1 extended in a first direction. FIG. 2c is a perspective view showing the display panel (1) of FIG. 1 extended in a second direction. FIG. 2d is a perspective view showing the display panel of FIG. 1 extended in the first direction and the second direction. FIG. 2e is a perspective view showing the display panel (1) of FIG. 1 extended in a third direction.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 1, a display panel (1) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DA) may include a plurality of pixels. The display panel (1) may provide a predetermined image using light emitted from a plurality of pixels. The non-display area (NDA) may be placed outside the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) is an area where pixels are not placed and may completely surround the display area (DA).

[0077] The display panel (1) can be extended or shortened in various directions. The display panel (1) can be extended in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) by an external force applied by an external object or a user. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the display area (DA) and / or non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (1) can be extended in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction). For example, as shown in FIG. 2a, it can be extended along the x direction and -x direction, or as shown in FIG. 2b, it can be extended along the x direction while one side of the display panel (1) remains fixed.

[0078] The display panel (1) can be extended in a second direction (e.g., the y direction and / or the -y direction) by an external force applied by an external object or a user. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2c, the display area (DA) and / or non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (1) can be extended in the y direction and the -y direction. In another embodiment, one side of the display panel (1) can be extended in the y direction or the -y direction while remaining fixed.

[0079] The display panel (1) can be extended in multiple directions, such as a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) and a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction), by an external force applied by an external object or a part of a person's body. As shown in FIG. 2d, the display area (DA) and / or non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (1) can be extended in the ±x direction and ±y direction.

[0080] The display panel (1) can be extended in a third direction (e.g., z direction or -z direction) by an external force applied by an external object or a part of a person's body. In one embodiment, FIG. 2e illustrates a part of the display panel (1), such as a part of the display area (DA), protruding in the z direction. In another embodiment, a part of the display panel (1), such as a part of the display area (DA), may protrude along the -z direction (or be sunken along the z direction).

[0081] FIGS. 2a to 2e illustrate a display panel (1) extended in a first direction, a second direction, and / or a third direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the display panel (1) may be deformed into various irregular shapes, such as having two or more axes, such as being bent or twisted.

[0082] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] A plurality of pixels may be arranged in the display area (DA) of the display panel (1). Each pixel may include subpixels that emit light of different colors. A light-emitting element corresponding to each subpixel may be placed in the display area (DA). A circuit for providing electrical signals to the light-emitting elements placed in the display area (DA) and to the transistors electrically connected to the light-emitting elements may be located in the non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). A gate driving circuit (GDC) may be placed in the first non-display area (NDA1) and the second non-display area (NDA2), respectively, which are placed on both sides of the display area (DA). The gate driving circuit (GDC) may include drivers for providing electrical signals to the gate electrodes of each of the transistors electrically connected to the light-emitting elements. FIG. 3 illustrates the placement of a gate driving circuit (GDC) in the first non-display area (NDA1) and the second non-display area (NDA2), respectively, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the gate driving circuit (GDC) may be placed in either the first non-display area (NDA1) or the second non-display area (NDA2).

[0084] The data driving circuit (DDC) may be placed in a third non-display area (NDA3) and / or a fourth non-display area (NDA4) connecting the first non-display area (NDA1) and the second non-display area (NDA2). In one embodiment, FIG. 3 illustrates the data driving circuit (DDC) being placed in the fourth non-display area (NDA4). In another embodiment, the data driving circuit (DDC) may be placed in each of the third non-display area (NDA3) and the fourth non-display area (NDA4).

[0085] FIG. 3 illustrates a data driving circuit (DDC) placed in the fourth non-display area (NDA4) of a display panel (1), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the display panel (1) may further include a flexible circuit board (not shown) electrically connected through a terminal portion (not shown) placed in the fourth non-display area (NDA4), and a data driving circuit (DDC) may be placed on the aforementioned flexible circuit board.

[0086] In some embodiments, the elongation of the non-display area (NDA) may be equal to or less than the elongation of the display area (DA). In one embodiment, the elongation of the non-display area (NDA) may differ from area to area. For example, the first non-display area (NDA1), the second non-display area (NDA2), and the third non-display area (NDA3) may have substantially the same elongation, but the elongation of the fourth non-display area (NDA4) may be less than the elongation of each of the first non-display area (NDA1), the second non-display area (NDA2), and the third non-display area (NDA3). In this specification, elongation refers to a numerical value representing the change in length (ΔL / L) by which the display panel (1) can be stretched without physical damage to the display panel (1) when an external force is applied to the display panel (1). Here, ΔL is the amount of change in length of the display panel, and L represents the initial length of the display panel.

[0087] FIGS. 4a to 4c are enlarged plan views of part IV of FIG. 3 as part of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4a through 4c, the display panel (1) may include island portions (11) spaced apart from each other in a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction) and a second direction (e.g., y direction or -y direction) in a display area (DA), and bridge portions (12) connecting two adjacent island portions (11). The bridge portions (12) may be spaced apart from each other by a first opening (CS1) located between the bridge portions (12).

[0089] The island sections (11) may be arranged along a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) and a second direction intersecting the first direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction). It is illustrated that the centers of four adjacent island sections (11) centered around the first opening (CS1) are located at the vertices of a virtual quadrilateral (BS). The virtual quadrilateral (BS) may have a shape such as a square, a rhombus, or a parallelogram. In one embodiment, FIGS. 4a and 4b illustrate that the virtual quadrilateral (BS) is a square, and FIG. 4c illustrates that the virtual quadrilateral (BS) is a rhombus.

[0090] In one embodiment, at least one of the sides of each island portion (11) may be oblique to a first imaginary line (IM1) connecting the center (C) of the island portions (11) along a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., y direction or -y direction), and may intersect the aforementioned first imaginary line (IM1). In this regard, FIGS. 4a to 4c illustrate that each island portion (11) comprises first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d), wherein each of the first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) extends along a direction oblique to the first imaginary line (IM1) connecting the center (C) of the island portions (11). At least one of the first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d), such as the first side (11a) and the third side (11c), may intersect the aforementioned first imaginary line (IM1). For convenience of explanation, the island portion (11) is described below as each being a square and including four sides, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As another embodiment, the island portion (11) may be a polygon such as a pentagon or a hexagon, or a circle or an ellipse. In the following description, to distinguish one side of the island portion (11) from another side, they are named and described as the first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d).

[0091] In one embodiment, the angle between each side of the island portion (11) and the aforementioned first imaginary line (IM1) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. The angle between the second imaginary line (IM2), which is parallel to the first imaginary line (IM1) and passes through any one of the corners of each island portion (11), and each side of the island portion (11) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0092] For example, the first angle (φ1) between the second side (11b) and the second virtual line (IM2) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. For example, the first angle (φ1) may be greater than 0 degrees and equal to or less than 45 degrees. The first angle (φ1) between the second side (11b) and the second virtual line (IM2) may be the same as the angle (first angle, φ1) between the second side (11b) and the first virtual line (IM1).

[0093] The second angle (φ2) between the first side (11a) and the first imaginary line (IM1) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. For example, referring to FIGS. 4a through 4c, the second angle (φ2) may be equal to or greater than 45 degrees and less than 90 degrees. The second angle (φ2) between the first side (11a) and the first imaginary line (IM1) may be the same as the angle (second angle, φ2) between the first side (11a) and the second imaginary line (IM2).

[0094] Similarly, the angle between the third side (11c) and the first virtual line (IM1) or the angle between the third side (11c) and the second virtual line (IM2) may be the same as the aforementioned second angle (φ2). The angle between the fourth side (11d) and the first virtual line (IM1) or the angle between the fourth side (11d) and the second virtual line (IM2) may be the same as the aforementioned first angle (φ1).

[0095] FIGS. 4a to 4c illustrate that the first angle (φ1) is smaller than the second angle (φ2), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the first angle (φ1) may be larger than the second angle (φ2).

[0096] Each island section (11) may be connected to a plurality of bridge sections (12). The plurality of bridge sections (12) connected to any one island section (11) may correspond to a plurality of sides of the corresponding island section (11). In one embodiment, each island section (11) may be connected to four bridge sections (12), and the four bridge sections (12) may each be connected (e.g., directly connected) to four sides of the island section (11). Two bridge sections (12) located opposite each other along the first direction (e.g., x-direction or -x-direction) with the island section (11) in between may each be connected to opposite sides of the island section (11) (e.g., a first side (11a) and a third side (11c)) with the center (C) in between. The remaining two bridge sections (12) located on opposite sides of the island section (11) along the second direction (e.g., y-direction or -y-direction) can each be connected to the other two sides of the island section (11) that are opposite each other with the center (C) in between (e.g., the second side (11b) and the fourth side (11d)).

[0097] The bridge portion (12) may have a wavy shape. The bridge portion (12) may include two curved portions (12R) and a straight portion (12S) between the two curved portions (12R).

[0098] The straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) may be located between one side of each of the two adjacent island sections (11). For example, the first side (11a) of one of the two adjacent island sections (11) and the third side (11c) of the other island section (11) may be spaced apart with a gap, and the straight section (12S) may be located between them.

[0099] As illustrated in FIGS. 4a and 4c, one of the two curved sections (12R) of the bridge section (12) may be curved counterclockwise from one end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the island section (11). The other of the two curved sections (12R) of the bridge section (12) may be curved counterclockwise from the other end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the island section (11). The two curved sections (12R) of the bridge section (12) may be point-symmetric with respect to the center (C12s) of the straight section (12S).

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 4b, one of the two curved sections (12R) of the bridge section (12) may be curved clockwise from one end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the island section (11). The other of the two curved sections (12R) of the bridge section (12) may be curved clockwise from the other end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the island section (11).

[0101] FIG. 5a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an island portion (11) and a bridge portion (12) arranged in a display area (DA) of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5b is a schematic plan view showing the arrangement of a light-emitting element (LED) and a pixel driving circuit (PC) of an island portion (11) arranged in a display area (DA) of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 5a, the island section (11) and the bridge section (12) placed in the display area (DA) may be spaced apart with the first opening (CS1) in between. The island section (11) is an area where pixels are arranged and may include light-emitting elements (LEDs) corresponding to each pixel and a circuit (hereinafter referred to as a pixel driving circuit, PC) for driving each light-emitting element (LED). The bridge section (12) may include wiring (WL) electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits (PCs) placed in each of the adjacent island sections (11).

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, looking at the island portion (11), a buffer layer (111) containing an inorganic insulating material is disposed on the substrate (100), and a pixel driving circuit (PC) may be disposed on the buffer layer (111). An insulating layer (IL) containing an inorganic insulating material and / or an organic insulating material may be disposed between the pixel driving circuit (PC) and the light-emitting element (LED). The light-emitting element (LED) is disposed on the insulating layer (IL) and may be electrically connected to the corresponding pixel driving circuit (PC). The light-emitting elements (LEDs) may emit light of different colors or light of the same color. In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements (LEDs) may each emit red, green, and blue light. In some embodiments, the light-emitting elements (LEDs) may emit white light. In another embodiment, the light-emitting elements (LEDs) may each emit red, green, blue, and white light.

[0104] In a planar plane, the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits (PCs) and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements (LEDs) may differ from each other. The arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits (PCs) may intersect with the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements (LEDs). In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5b, the light-emitting elements (LEDs) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the arrangement direction of the island portion (11), for example, a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction), as previously explained with reference to FIG. 4a, etc. The pixel driving circuits (PCs) may be arranged in a direction from one side of the island portion (11) toward the other side facing the aforementioned side.

[0105] The substrate (100) may include a polymer resin such as, for example, polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, and cellulose acetate propionate. In one embodiment, the substrate (100) may be a single layer comprising the aforementioned polymer resin. In another embodiment, the substrate (100) may be a multilayer structure comprising a base layer comprising the aforementioned polymer resin and a barrier layer comprising an inorganic insulating material. The substrate (100) comprising the polymer resin may have flexible, rollable, and bendable properties.

[0106] In one embodiment, FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate three pixel driving circuits (PCs) arranged in each island section (11) and three light-emitting elements (LEDs) connected to each pixel driving circuit (PC), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the number of pixel driving circuits (PCs) and light-emitting elements (LEDs) arranged in the island section (11) may be one, two, or four or more.

[0107] The encapsulation layer (300) may be placed on a light-emitting element (LED) and may protect the light-emitting element (LED) from external forces and / or moisture penetration. The encapsulation layer (300) may include an inorganic encapsulation layer and / or an organic encapsulation layer. In some embodiments, the encapsulation layer (300) may include a structure in which an inorganic encapsulation layer containing an inorganic insulating material, an organic encapsulation layer containing an organic insulating material, and an inorganic encapsulation layer containing an inorganic insulating material are laminated. In other embodiments, the encapsulation layer (300) may include an organic material such as resin, for example. In some embodiments, the encapsulation layer (300) may include urethane epoxy acrylate. The encapsulation layer (300) may include a photosensitive material, such as photoresist.

[0108] Looking at the bridge portion (12), an insulating layer (IL) containing an organic insulating material may be disposed on the substrate (100). When the display panel (1) is stretched, the bridge portion (12), which undergoes relatively more deformation, may not have a layer containing an inorganic insulating material that is prone to cracking, unlike the island portion (11).

[0109] In one embodiment, the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) may have the same stacked structure as the substrate (100) corresponding to the island portion (11). In one embodiment, the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) and the substrate (100) corresponding to the island portion (11) may be polymer resin layers formed together in the same process. In another embodiment, the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) may have a different stacked structure than the substrate (100) corresponding to the island portion (11). In some embodiments, the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) has a multilayer structure including a base layer containing a polymer resin and a barrier layer containing an inorganic insulator, and the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) may have a structure of a polymer resin layer without a layer containing an inorganic insulator.

[0110] As previously described, the wiring (WL) of the bridge section (12) may be signal lines (e.g., gate lines, data lines, etc.) for providing an electrical signal to a transistor included in the pixel driving circuit (PC) of the island section (11), or voltage lines (e.g., driving voltage lines, initialization voltage lines, etc.) for providing a voltage. An encapsulation layer (300) may also be disposed in the bridge section (12). In another embodiment, the encapsulation layer (300) may not exist in the bridge section (12).

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 4a to 4c and FIG. 5a, the substrate (100) corresponding to the island portion (11) and the substrate (100) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) can be connected to each other. In other words, the plan view shown in FIGS. 4a to 4c above may be substantially the same as the plan view of the substrate (100) described with reference to FIG. 5a. In other words, the substrate (100) may include an area corresponding to the island portion (11), an area corresponding to the bridge portion (12), and an opening (100OP1) having the same shape as the first opening (CS1).

[0112] Similarly, the bag layer (300) corresponding to the island portion (11) and the bag layer (300) corresponding to the bridge portion (12) can be connected to each other. For example, the plan view shown in FIGS. 4a through 4c above may be substantially identical to the plan view of the bag layer (300). In other words, the bag layer (300) may include an area corresponding to the island portion (11), an area corresponding to the bridge portion (12), and an opening (300OP1) having the same shape as the first opening (CS1).

[0113] The circuit-light-emitting element layer (200) between the substrate (100) and the encapsulation layer (300) may include a buffer layer (111), a pixel driving circuit (PC), wiring (WL), an insulating layer (IL), and a light-emitting element (LED). Similar to the substrate (100), the plan view previously shown in FIGS. 4a through 4c may be substantially identical to the plan view of the circuit-light-emitting element layer (200). In other words, the circuit-light-emitting element layer (200) may include an opening (200OP1) having the same shape as the first opening (CS1).

[0114] FIGS. 6a to 6c are equivalent circuit diagrams schematically illustrating a light-emitting element (LED) and a pixel driving circuit (PC) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 6a, a light-emitting element (LED) corresponding to a subpixel is electrically connected to a pixel driving circuit (PC), and the pixel driving circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), and a storage capacitor (Cst). The pixel driving circuit (PC) may be electrically connected to a signal line and a voltage line. The signal line may include a gate line, such as a first scan line (SL1), and a data line (DL), for example, and the voltage line may include a first voltage line (VDDL).

[0116] The second transistor (T2) can be electrically connected to the first scan line (SL1) and the data line (DL). The first scan line (SL1) can provide a first scan signal (GW) to the gate electrode of the second transistor (T2). The second transistor (T2) can transmit a data signal (Dm) input from the data line (DL) to the first transistor (T1) according to the first scan signal (GW) input from the first scan line (SL1).

[0117] The storage capacitor (Cst) is electrically connected to the second transistor (T2) and the first voltage line (VDDL), and can store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage received from the second transistor (T2) and the first power supply voltage (VDD) supplied by the first voltage line (VDDL).

[0118] The first transistor (T1) is a driving transistor capable of controlling the driving current flowing through the light-emitting element (LED). The first transistor (T1) can be connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) and the storage capacitor (Cst). The first transistor (T1) can control the driving current flowing through the light-emitting element (LED) from the first voltage line (VDDL) in correspondence with the voltage value stored in the storage capacitor (Cst). The light-emitting element (LED) can emit light having a predetermined brightness by the driving current. The first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) is electrically connected to the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode can be electrically connected to the second voltage line (VSSL) that supplies the second power supply voltage (VSS).

[0119] FIG. 6a illustrates a pixel driving circuit (PC) comprising two transistors and one storage capacitor, but in other embodiments, the pixel driving circuit (PC) may comprise three or more transistors.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 6b, the pixel driving circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), a third transistor (T3), a fourth transistor (T4), a fifth transistor (T5), a sixth transistor (T6), a seventh transistor (T7), and a storage capacitor (Cst).

[0121] The pixel driving circuit (PC) is electrically connected to signal lines and voltage lines. The signal lines may include, for example, gate lines such as a first scan line (SL1), a second scan line (SL2), a third scan line (SL3), and a light emission control line (EML), and data lines (DL). The voltage lines may include first and second initialization voltage lines (VIL1, VIL2) and a first voltage line (VDDL).

[0122] The first voltage line (VDDL) can transmit the first power supply voltage (VDD) to the first transistor (T1). The first initialization voltage line (VIL1) can transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) that initializes the first transistor (T1) to the pixel driving circuit (PC). The second initialization voltage line (VIL2) can transmit the second initialization voltage (Vaint) that initializes the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to the pixel driving circuit (PC).

[0123] The first transistor (T1) can be electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The first transistor (T1) acts as a driving transistor and receives a data signal (Dm) according to the switching operation of the second transistor (T2) and supplies a driving current to the light-emitting element (LED).

[0124] The second transistor (T2) is a data write transistor and is electrically connected to the first scan line (SL1) and the data line (DL). The second transistor (T2) is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5). The second transistor (T2) is turned on according to the first scan signal (GW) received through the first scan line (SL1) and performs a switching operation to transmit the data signal (Dm) transmitted to the data line (DL) to the first node (N1).

[0125] The third transistor (T3) is electrically connected to the first scan line (SL1) and is electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The third transistor (T3) is turned on according to the first scan signal (GW) received through the first scan line (SL1) and can connect the first transistor (T1) to the diode.

[0126] The fourth transistor (T4) is a first initialization transistor and is electrically connected to the third scan line (SL3) and the first initialization voltage line (VIL1). The fourth transistor (T4) is turned on according to the third scan signal (GI) received through the third scan line (SL3) to transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) from the first initialization voltage line (VIL1) to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), thereby initializing the voltage of the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1). The third scan signal (GI) may correspond to the first scan signal of another pixel driving circuit placed in the previous row of the corresponding pixel driving circuit (PC).

[0127] The fifth transistor (T5) may be an operation control transistor, and the sixth transistor (T6) may be a light-emitting control transistor. The fifth transistor (T5) and the sixth transistor (T6) are electrically connected to the light-emitting control line (EML) and are simultaneously turned on according to the light-emitting control signal (EM) received through the light-emitting control line (EML) to form a current path so that a driving current can flow from the first voltage line (VDDL) toward the light-emitting element (LED).

[0128] The seventh transistor (T7) is a second initialization transistor and can be electrically connected to the second scan line (SL2), the second initialization voltage line (VIL2), and the sixth transistor (T6). The seventh transistor (T7) is turned on according to the second scan signal (GB) received through the second scan line (SL2), and can initialize the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) by transmitting the second initialization voltage (Vaint) from the second initialization voltage line (VIL2) to the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED).

[0129] The storage capacitor (Cst) includes a first electrode (CE1) and a second electrode (CE2). The first electrode (CE1) is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode (CE2) is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL). The storage capacitor (Cst) can maintain the voltage applied to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1) by storing and maintaining a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltages of the first voltage line (VDDL) and the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 6c, the pixel driving circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), a third transistor (T3), a fourth transistor (T4), a fifth transistor (T5), a sixth transistor (T6), a seventh transistor (T7), an eighth transistor (T8), a ninth transistor (T9), a storage capacitor (Cst), and an auxiliary capacitor (Ca).

[0131] The pixel driving circuit (PC) is electrically connected to signal lines and voltage lines. The signal lines may include, for example, gate lines such as a first scan line (SL1), a second scan line (SL2), a third scan line (SL3), and a light emission control line (EML), and data lines (DL). The voltage lines may include first and second initialization voltage lines (VIL1, VIL2), a holding voltage line (VSL), and a first voltage line (VDDL).

[0132] The first voltage line (VDDL) can transmit the first power supply voltage (VDD) to the first transistor (T1). The first initialization voltage line (VIL1) can transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) that initializes the first transistor (T1) to the pixel driving circuit (PC). The second initialization voltage line (VIL2) can transmit the second initialization voltage (Vaint) that initializes the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to the pixel driving circuit (PC). The holding voltage line (VSL) can provide the holding voltage (VSUS) to the second electrode (CE2) of the second node (N2), such as the storage capacitor (Cst), during the initialization period and the data writing period.

[0133] The first transistor (T1) can be electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and the eighth transistor (T8), and can be electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The first transistor (T1) acts as a driving transistor and can receive a data signal (Dm) according to the switching operation of the second transistor (T2) and supply driving current to the light-emitting element (LED).

[0134] The second transistor (T2) is electrically connected to the first scan line (SL1) and the data line (DL), and is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and the eighth transistor (T8). The second transistor (T2) is turned on according to the first scan signal (GW) received through the first scan line (SL1) and performs a switching operation to transmit the data signal (Dm) transmitted to the data line (DL) to the first node (N1).

[0135] The third transistor (T3) is electrically connected to the first scan line (SL1) and is electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The third transistor (T3) is turned on according to the first scan signal (GW) received through the first scan line (SL1) and connects the first transistor (T1) to the diode, thereby compensating for the threshold voltage of the first transistor (T1).

[0136] The fourth transistor (T4) is electrically connected to the third scan line (SL3) and the first initialization voltage line (VIL1), and is turned on according to the third scan signal (GI) received through the third scan line (SL3) to transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) from the first initialization voltage line (VIL1) to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1) to initialize the voltage of the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1). The third scan signal (GI) may correspond to the first scan signal of another pixel driving circuit placed in the previous row of the corresponding pixel driving circuit (PC).

[0137] The fifth transistor (T5), the sixth transistor (T6), and the eighth transistor (T8) are electrically connected to the light emission control line (EML) and are simultaneously turned on according to the light emission control signal (EM) received through the light emission control line (EML) to form a current path so that driving current can flow from the first voltage line (VDDL) toward the light-emitting element (LED).

[0138] The seventh transistor (T7) is a second initialization transistor and can be electrically connected to the second scan line (SL2), the second initialization voltage line (VIL2), and the sixth transistor (T6). The seventh transistor (T7) is turned on according to the second scan signal (GB) received through the second scan line (SL2) and transmits the second initialization voltage (Vaint) from the second initialization voltage line (VIL2) to the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to initialize the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED).

[0139] The ninth transistor (T9) can be electrically connected to the second scan line (SL2), the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst), and the holding voltage line (VSL). The ninth transistor (T9) is turned on according to the second scan signal (GB) received through the second scan line (SL2), and can transmit a holding voltage (VSUS) to the second node (N2), such as the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst), during the initialization period and the data writing period.

[0140] The eighth transistor (T8) and the ninth transistor (T9) can each be electrically connected to the second node (N2), for example, the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst). In some embodiments, the eighth transistor (T8) may be turned off and the ninth transistor (T9) may be turned on during the initialization period and the data writing period, and the eighth transistor (T8) may be turned on and the ninth transistor (T9) may be turned off during the light emission period. Since the second node (N2) receives the holding voltage (VSUS) during the initialization period and the data writing period, the uniformity of the brightness of the display panel (e.g., LRU, Long Range Uniformity) due to the voltage drop of the first voltage line (VDDL) can be improved.

[0141] The storage capacitor (Cst) includes a first electrode (CE1) and a second electrode (CE2). The first electrode (CE1) is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode (CE2) is electrically connected to the eighth transistor (T8) and the ninth transistor (T9).

[0142] The auxiliary capacitor (Ca) can be electrically connected to the sixth transistor (T6), the holding voltage line (VSL), and the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED). By storing and maintaining a voltage corresponding to the voltage difference between the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) and the holding voltage line (VSL) while the seventh transistor (T7) and the ninth transistor (T9) are turned on, the auxiliary capacitor (Ca) can prevent the problem of the black brightness rising when the sixth transistor (T6) is turned off.

[0143] FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a light-emitting element of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 7a, a light-emitting element according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an organic light-emitting diode (220) containing an organic material. The organic light-emitting diode (220) may include a first electrode (221) disposed on an insulating layer, a second electrode (225) facing the first electrode (221), and a light-emitting layer (223) interposed between the first electrode (221) and the second electrode (225). A first functional layer (222) may be disposed between the first electrode (221) and the light-emitting layer (223), and a second functional layer (224) may be disposed between the light-emitting layer (223) and the second electrode (225).

[0145] The edge of the first electrode (221) may be covered with a bank layer (BKL) containing an insulating material. The bank layer (BKL) may include an opening (B-OP) that overlaps the central portion of the first electrode (221).

[0146] The first electrode (221) may include a conductive oxide such as, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). In another embodiment, the first electrode (221) may include a reflective layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or a compound thereof. In another embodiment, the first electrode (221) may further include a layer formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, AZO, or In2O3 above and below the aforementioned reflective layer.

[0147] The light-emitting layer (223) may include a polymer or low-molecular-weight organic material that emits light of a predetermined color. The first functional layer (222) may include a hole transport layer (HTL) and / or a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer (224) may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL).

[0148] The second electrode (225) may be made of a conductive material with a low work function. For example, the second electrode (225) may include a (semi)transparent layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or alloys thereof. Alternatively, the second electrode (225) may further include a layer such as ITO, IZO, ZnO, AZO, or In2O3 on the (semi)transparent layer comprising the aforementioned materials.

[0149] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a light-emitting element of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7b, in one embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting element may include an inorganic light-emitting diode (230) comprising an inorganic material. The inorganic light-emitting diode (230) may include a first semiconductor layer (231), a second semiconductor layer (232), an intermediate layer (233) between the first semiconductor layer (231) and the second semiconductor layer (232), a first electrode (235) electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer (231), and a second electrode (238) electrically connected to the second semiconductor layer (232). The first electrode (235) and the second electrode (238) of the inorganic light-emitting diode (230) may each be electrically connected to a first electrode pad (241) and a second electrode pad (242) disposed on the same layer.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first semiconductor layer (231) may include a p-type semiconductor layer. The p-type semiconductor layer may be selected from semiconductor materials having the compositional formula InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), such as GaN, AlN, AlGaN, InGaN, InN, InAlGaN, AlInN, etc., and may be doped with a p-type dopant such as Mg, Zn, Ca, Sr, or Ba.

[0152] The second semiconductor layer (232) may include, for example, an n-type semiconductor layer. The n-type semiconductor layer may be selected from semiconductor materials having the composition formula InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), such as GaN, AlN, AlGaN, InGaN, InN, InAlGaN, AlInN, etc., and may be doped with an n-type dopant such as Si, Ge, or Sn.

[0153] The intermediate layer (233) is a region where electrons and holes recombine, and as electrons and holes recombine, they transition to a lower energy level and can generate light having a corresponding wavelength. The intermediate layer (233) can be formed by including a semiconductor material having, for example, the composition formula InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), and can be formed as a single quantum well structure or a multi-quantum well (MQW) structure. In some aspects, the intermediate layer (233) may include a quantum wire structure or a quantum dot structure.

[0154] FIG. 7b illustrates that the first semiconductor layer (231) includes a p-type semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer (232) includes an n-type semiconductor layer, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first semiconductor layer (231) may include an n-type semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer (232) may include a p-type semiconductor layer.

[0155] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing island sections (11) and bridge sections (12) arranged in the display area (DA) of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 8, the island sections (11) may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (e.g., x direction or -x direction) and a second direction (e.g., y direction or -y direction). The sides of adjacent island sections (11) may be arranged parallel to each other. For example, the first side (11a) of one island section (11) may be parallel to the third side (11c) of another adjacent island section (11) in the first direction (e.g., -x direction), and the third side (11c) of the aforementioned island section (11) may be parallel to the first side (11a) of another adjacent island section (11) in the first direction (e.g., x direction). The second side (11b) of any one of the aforementioned island parts (11) may be parallel to the fourth side (11d) of another adjacent island part (11) in the second direction (e.g., y direction), and the fourth side (11d) of any one of the aforementioned island parts (11) may be parallel to the second side (11b) of another adjacent island part (11) in the second direction (e.g., -y direction).

[0157] The bridge section (12) may include two curved sections (12R) connected to each of the adjacent island sections (11) and a straight section (12S) between the two curved sections (12R). The length (L1) of at least one side of the island section (11) may be greater than the length (L2) of the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12). In other words, the length (L2) of the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) may be smaller than the length (L1) of at least one side of the island section (11). For example, the length (L1) of at least one of the first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) of the island section (11) may be greater than the length (L2) of the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12). In one embodiment, the lengths of the first to fourth sides (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) of the island portion (11) may be equal to each other.

[0158] The bridge section (12) may be positioned to intersect the sides (IE) of a virtual rectangle (BS) connecting the centers (C) of four adjacent island sections (11) centered on the first opening (CS1). For example, each straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) may intersect the sides (IE) of the aforementioned virtual rectangle (BS). In one embodiment, the angle between one side of the straight section (12S) and the side (IE) of the virtual rectangle (BS) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees, and the angle between the side opposite to the aforementioned straight section (12S) and the side (IE) of the virtual rectangle (BS) may be greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0159] The bridge section (12) is located between two adjacent island sections (11), and may be located between the mutually facing sides of the two island sections (11). For example, the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) may be located between the mutually facing sides of the two island sections (11). The straight section (12S) of any one of the bridge sections (12) may be located between the first side (11a) of any one of the island sections (11) and the third side (11c) of the adjacent island section (11). A straight section (12S) of any one bridge section (12) may be located between the second side (11b) of any one island section (11) and the fourth side (11d) of the adjacent island section (11), a straight section (12S) of any one bridge section (12) may be located between the third side (11c) of any one island section (11) and the first side (11a) of the adjacent island section (11), and a straight section (12S) of any one bridge section (12) may be located between the fourth side (11d) of any one island section (11) and the second side (11b) of the adjacent island section (11).

[0160] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections (11) of a display panel (1) and a bridge section (12) between them according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 9, two adjacent island sections (11) are connected by a bridge section (12), and the bridge section (12) may include two curved sections (12R) and a straight section (12S). For convenience of explanation, the two adjacent island sections (11) are respectively referred to as the island section (11-1) and the second island section (11-2), and the two curved sections (12R) of each bridge section (12) are respectively referred to as the first curved section (12R-1) and the second curved section (12R-2).

[0162] The first curve section (12R-1) is connected to the island section (11-1), the second curve section (12R-2) is connected to the second island section (11-2), and the straight section (12S) can be located between the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2).

[0163] For example, the first curve section (12R-1) is directly connected to one end of the straight section (12S) and to the side of the island section (11-1) (e.g., the second side (11b)), and may extend counterclockwise from one end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the island section (11-1) (e.g., the second side (11b)). The second curve section (12R-2) is directly connected to the other end of the straight section (12S) and to the side of the second island section (11-2) (e.g., the fourth side (11d)), and may extend counterclockwise from the other end of the straight section (12S) toward the side of the second island section (11-2) (e.g., the fourth side (11d)). The first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) are structures that are continuously extended without inflection points and can have the shape of a kind of arc.

[0164] The straight section (12S) may be located between the side of the island section (11-1) facing each other (e.g., the third side (11c)) and the side of the second island section (11-2) (e.g., the first side (11a)). Each of the first curved section (12R-1) and the second curved section (12R-2) may be connected to a side that is bent and / or intersected with respect to each of the sides of the first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2) positioned on both sides of the straight section (12S). For example, the first curved section (12R-1) may be connected to the second side (11b) that intersects the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1), and the second curved section (12R-2) may be connected to the fourth side (11d) that intersects the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2). Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the first curve section (12R-1) is connected to the second side (11b) of the island section (11-1) and may be positioned adjacent to the corner between the third side (11c) and the second side (11b). The second curve section (12R-2) is connected to the fourth side (11d) of the second island section (11-2) and may be positioned adjacent to the corner between the fourth side (11d) and the first side (11a).

[0165] The first curve section (12R-1) includes a rounded inner edge (12Ri) and a rounded outer edge (12Ro), and the gap between the inner edge (12RI) and the outer edge (12Ro) may correspond to the width (Wr) of the first curve section (12R-1). In some embodiments, the width (Wr) of the first curve section (12R-1) may be substantially constant.

[0166] The first curve section (12R-1) may have the shape of an approximate arc, with a central angle (θ) of about 180 degrees or more. In some embodiments, the aforementioned central angle (θ) may be equal to or greater than about 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees (180° ≤ θ < 360°). In some embodiments, the central angle (θ) of the first curve section (12R-1) may be a reflex angle. For example, the central angle (θ) of the first curve section (12R-1) may be greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees (180° < θ < 360°).

[0167] The second curve section (12R-2) may have substantially the same structure as the first curve section (12R-1). In some embodiments, the second curve section (12R-2) may have the shape of an approximate arc with a central angle (θ) equal to or greater than about 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees (180° ≤ θ < 360°). In some embodiments, the central angle (θ) of the second curve section (12R-2) may be a reflex angle. For example, the central angle (θ) of the second curve section (12R-2) may be greater than about 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees (180° < θ < 360°). The second curve section (12R-2) includes a rounded inner edge (12Ri) and a rounded outer edge (12Ro), and the gap between the inner edge (12Ri) and the outer edge (12Ro) may correspond to the width (Wr) of the second curve section (12R-2).

[0168] The straight section (12S) includes a first side (12Se1) and a second side (12Se2) located on opposite sides. The first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) is connected to the inner edge (12Ri) of the first curve section (12R-1) and the outer edge (12Ro) of the second curve section (12R-2), and may face one side (e.g., the third side (11c)) of the island section (11-1). The second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) is connected to the outer edge (12Ro) of the first curve section (12R-1) and the inner edge (12Ri) of the second curve section (12R-2), and may face one side (e.g., the first side (11a)) of the second island section (11-2).

[0169] The straight section (12S) has a width (Ws) corresponding to the gap between the first side (12Se1) and the second side (12Se2). The width (Ws) of the straight section (12S) may be substantially constant. The width (Ws) of the straight section (12S) may be substantially the same as the width (Wr) of the first curved section (12R-1) and the width (Wr) of the second curved section (12R-2).

[0170] In one embodiment, the first side (12Se1) and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may be substantially parallel to the sides of the first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2) arranged on both sides of the straight section (12S). For example, the first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may be parallel to the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1), and the second side (12Se2) may be parallel to the first side (11a) of the island section (11-1).

[0171] FIG. 9 illustrates a straight section (12S) in which the first side (12Se1) and the second side (12Se2) are parallel to the sides of the island sections, such as the first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2), respectively, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, as described below with reference to FIG. 10, the first side (12Se1) and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may not be parallel to the sides of the island sections, such as the first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2), respectively.

[0172] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections (11) and a bridge section (12) between them of a display panel (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2) and the bridge section (12) shown in FIG. 10 are substantially the same as those previously described with reference to FIG. 9, except that there is a difference in the structure of the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12). The same description is replaced by the description previously described with reference to FIG. 9, and the following description focuses on the differences.

[0173] The straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) is located between the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1) and the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2), and may include the first side (12Se1) and the second side (12Se2).

[0174] The first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may face the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1) and may extend along a direction oblique to the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1). For example, the angle (ω) between the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1) and the first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may be an acute angle. In some embodiments, the angle (ω) between the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1) and the first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 30 degrees.

[0175] The second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may face the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2) and may extend along a direction oblique to the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2). For example, the angle (ω) between the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2) and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may be an acute angle. In some embodiments, the angle (ω) between the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2) and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 30 degrees.

[0176] The width (Ws) of the straight section (12S) may be substantially the same as the width (Wr) of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) mentioned earlier. The width (Ws) of the straight section (12S) may be constant, and the width (Wr) of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) may be constant.

[0177] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing two adjacent island sections (11) and a bridge section (12) between them of a display panel (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2) and the bridge section (12) shown in FIG. 11 are substantially the same as those previously described with reference to FIG. 9, except that the width of the first and second curved sections (12R-1, 12R-2) and the width of the straight section (12S) in FIG. 11 differ from the features previously described with reference to FIG. 9. The same descriptions are replaced by the descriptions previously made with reference to FIG. 9, and the following description focuses on the differences.

[0178] The width of each of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) of the bridge section (12) may differ from the width of the straight section (12S). The width of a part of each of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) may be greater than the width (Ws) of the straight section (12S). In one embodiment, the width (e.g., Wr1) of a part of each of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2), for example, a part relatively closer to the island section (11-1) and the second island section (11-2), may be greater than the width (Ws) of the straight section (12S).

[0179] The widths of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2) of the bridge section (12) may not be constant. For example, the first width (Wr1) of the part of the first curve section (12R-1) that is relatively close to the island section (11-1) may differ from the second width (Wr2) of the part of the first curve section (12R-1) that is relatively close to the straight section (12S). For example, the first width (Wr1) may be larger than the second width (Wr2). The first width (Wr1) of the part of the second curve section (12R-2) that is relatively close to the second island section (11-2) may differ from the second width (Wr2) of the part of the first curve section (12R-1) that is relatively close to the straight section (12S). For example, the first width (Wr1) may be larger than the second width (Wr2). In some embodiments, the second width (Wr2) may be larger than the width (Ws) of the straight section (12S).

[0180] When the display panel is stretched, the inner edge (12Ri) and its surroundings of the first curve section (12R-1) and the second curve section (12R-2), respectively, are areas where stress is relatively concentrated compared to the outer edge (12Ro) and its surroundings. In some embodiments, the wiring (WL, see FIG. 5a) for forming the display panel may be placed on the bridge section (12) as previously described with reference to FIG. 5a, in which case the stress applied to the wiring (WL, see FIG. 5a) may increase as the wiring (WL, see FIG. 5a) is closer to the inner edge (12Ri). However, as in the embodiment of the present invention, when the width of each of the first curved section (12R-1) and the second curved section (12R-2), such as the first width (Wr1) and / or the second width (Wr2), is larger than the width (Ws) of the straight section (12S) described above, the wiring (WL, see FIG. 5a) can be spaced apart from the inner edge (12Ri) by a predetermined distance, thereby protecting the wiring (WL, see FIG. 5a) from the stress described above.

[0181] In one embodiment, the first and second sides (12Se1, 12Se2) of the straight section (12S) shown in FIG. 11 may be parallel to the sides of the first and second island sections (11-1, 11-2) located on both sides of the straight section (12S). For example, the first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may be parallel to the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1), and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may be parallel to the first side (11a) of the island section (11-1). In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the first side (12Se1) of the straight section (12S) may be slanted toward the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1), and the second side (12Se2) of the straight section (12S) may be slanted toward the first side (11a) of the island section (11-1).

[0182] FIG. 12 shows the structure of a corner of one of the island portions of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention and a bridge portion around it.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 12, the corner between sides of each island portion (11) may include a chamfer (11ch). In the embodiments described with reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. 11, the corner between sides of each island portion (11) may include a chamfer (11ch). When the corner of each island portion (11) includes a chamfer (11ch), a process margin in the etching process for forming the first opening (CS1) can be secured. As one embodiment, FIG. 12 illustrates that the corner between the second side (11b) and the third side (11c) of the island portion (11) includes a chamfer (11ch), but the present invention is not limited thereto. All corners of the island portion (11) (e.g., the four corners of each island portion (11) shown in FIG. 8) may include a chamfer (11ch).

[0184] The structure according to the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 4a to 4c and FIGS. 8 to 11 is in a state before the display panel is stretched (e.g., not stretched), and the display panel can be stretched as described later with reference to FIG. 13.

[0185] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an extended state of a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0186] Referring to FIG. 13, when the display panel (1) is extended, the gap between the island portions (11) placed in the display area (DA) may increase, and each island portion (11) may rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around a virtual axis (AX) passing through the center (C). The aforementioned virtual axis (AX) is an axis perpendicular to the upper surface of the island portion (11), and FIG. 13 illustrates the axis (AX) extending in the z-direction.

[0187] When the display panel (1) is extended, the bridge section (12) between two adjacent island sections (11) and the gap between two adjacent island sections (11) may be increased. When the display panel (1) is extended, the straight section (12S) of the bridge section (12) between the island section (11-1) and the second island section (11-2) may be moved away from the third side (11c) of the island section (11-1) and away from the first side (11a) of the second island section (11-2).

[0188] The display panel (1) according to the embodiments described above can be used in various electronic devices capable of providing an image. The electronic device refers to a device that uses electricity and has the function of providing a predetermined image.

[0189] FIG. 14a is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device (1000) including a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14b is a schematic block diagram of an electronic device (1000) including a display panel (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 14a, the electronic device (1000) can be freely deformed in three dimensions and can provide a three-dimensional image surface through the display area (DA). The statement that the electronic device (1000) can be freely deformed in three dimensions is distinguished from the operation of an electronic device having a rollable display panel, such as, for example, a case where a part of the rolled-up display area is visible to the user, and then another part of the rolled-up display area is unfolded so that the entire display area is visible to the user (or a case where the entire unfolded display area is visible to the user, and then the display area is rolled up so that only a part of the display area is visible to the user). The electronic device (1000) according to embodiments of the present invention may exhibit a deformation such as, for example, the area of ​​the entire display area (DA) increasing or decreasing again as the electronic device (1000) is deformed in the x direction, y direction, and / or z direction.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 14b, the electronic device (1000) may include a processor (1100), memory (1200), input module (1300), display module (1400), power module (1500), built-in module (1600), and external module (1700). According to one embodiment, at least one of the above-described components may be omitted from the electronic device (1000), or one or more other components may be added. According to one embodiment, some of the above-described components (e.g., built-in module (1600)) may be integrated into another component (e.g., display module (1400)).

[0192] The processor (1100) can execute software to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of an electronic device (1000) connected to the processor (1100) and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1100) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., an input module (1300), a sensor module (1610), or a communication module (1730)) in a volatile memory (1210), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1210), and store the resulting data in a non-volatile memory (1220).

[0193] The processor (1100) may include a main processor (1110) and an auxiliary processor (1120). The main processor (1110) may include at least one of a central processing unit (1111, CPU) and an application processor (AP). The main processor (1110) may further include at least one of a graphic processing unit (1112, GPU), a communication processor (CP), and an image signal processor (ISP). The main processor (1110) may further include a neural processing unit (1113, NPU). The neural processing unit is a processor specialized for processing artificial intelligence models, and the artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially. At least two of the processing unit and processor described above may be implemented as a single integrated configuration (e.g., a single chip), or each may be implemented as an independent configuration (e.g., multiple chips).

[0194] The auxiliary processor (1120) may include a controller (1121). The controller (1121) may include an interface conversion circuit and a timing control circuit. The controller (1121) receives a video signal from the main processor (1110), converts the data format of the video signal to match the interface specifications with the display module (1400), and outputs video data. The controller (1121) may output various types of control signals that support the operation of the display module (1400).

[0195] The auxiliary processor (1120) may further include data processing circuits such as a data conversion circuit (1122), a gamma correction circuit (1123), and a rendering circuit (1124). The data conversion circuit (1122) receives image data from the controller (1121) and can compensate the image data so that the image is displayed with a desired brightness according to the characteristics of the electronic device (1000) or the user's settings, or can convert the image data to reduce power consumption or compensate for afterimages. The gamma correction circuit (1123) can convert image data or gamma reference voltage, etc. so that the image displayed on the electronic device (1000) has desired gamma characteristics. The rendering circuit (1124) receives image data from the controller (1121) and can render the image data by considering the pixel arrangement of the display panel (1) applied to the electronic device (1000). At least one of the data conversion circuit (1122), gamma correction circuit (1123), and rendering circuit (1124) may be integrated into another component (e.g., main processor (1110) or controller (1121)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1120) may be integrated into the data driver (1430).

[0196] The memory (1200) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (1000) (e.g., a processor (1100) or a sensor module (1610)) and input or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1200) may include at least one of a volatile memory (1210) and a non-volatile memory (1220).

[0197] The input module (1300) can receive commands or data to be used for components of the electronic device (1000) (e.g., processor (1100), sensor module (1610) or sound output module (1630)) from outside the electronic device (1000) (e.g., user or external electronic device (2000)).

[0198] The input module (1300) may include a first input module (1310) into which commands or data are input from a user and a second input module (1320) into which commands or data are input from an external electronic device (2000).

[0199] The first input module (1310) may include a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a pen (e.g., a passive pen or an active pen). The first input module (1310) may include mechanical input means or touch input means, such as a button, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., located on the rear or side of the electronic device (1000), for example. The touch input means may include a touchscreen layer of the display panel (1).

[0200] The second input module (1320) can be connected to various types of external electronic devices (2000) connected to the electronic device (1000) via wired or wireless connection. According to one embodiment, the second input module (1320) may include a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface. The second input module (1320) may include a connector capable of physically connecting the electronic device (1000) to the external electronic device (2000), for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector). The electronic device (1000) can perform appropriate control related to the connected external electronic device (2000) in response to the external electronic device (2000) being connected to the second input module (1320).

[0201] The display module (1400) provides information visually to the user. The display module (1400) may include a display panel (1), a scan driver (1420), and a data driver (1430).

[0202] The display panel (1) displays (outputs) information processed by the electronic device (1000). The display panel (1) can display information on the execution screen of an application running on the electronic device (1000), or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information based on the execution screen information.

[0203] The scan driver (1420) may be mounted on the display panel (1) as a driving chip. Alternatively, the scan driver (1420) may be formed directly on the display panel (1). For example, the scan driver (1420) may include an ASG (Amorphous Silicon TFT Gate driver circuit), an LTPS (Low Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon) TFT Gate driver circuit, or an OSG (Oxide Semiconductor TFT Gate driver circuit) embedded in the display panel (1). The scan driver (1420) receives a control signal from the controller (1121) and outputs scan signals to the display panel (1) in response to the control signal.

[0204] The display panel (1) may further include a light emission control driver. The light emission control driver outputs a light emission control signal to the display panel (1) in response to a control signal received from the controller (1121). The light emission control driver may be formed separately from the scan driver (1420) or may be integrated into the scan driver (1420).

[0205] The data driver (1430) receives a control signal from the controller (1121), converts the image data into an analog voltage data voltage in response to the control signal, and then outputs the data voltages to the display panel (1).

[0206] The data driver (1430) may be integrated with some components of the auxiliary processor (1120). For example, the data driver (1430) may be provided as a timing controller embedded driver integrated circuit (Timing controller embedded driver IC) including a controller (1121).

[0207] The data driver (1430) may be mounted on the display panel (1) as a driving chip. Alternatively, the data driver (1430) may be formed directly on the display panel (1). If the scan driver (1420) and the data driver (1430) are formed directly on the display panel (1), the display panel (1) may effectively be a display module (1400).

[0208] A power module (1500) supplies power to the components of an electronic device (1000). The power module (1500) may include a battery that charges the power voltage. In some aspects, the power module (1500) is provided with a connection port, which may be included in a second input module (1320) to which an external charger is connected to supply power for charging the battery. Alternatively, the power module (1500) may include a wireless power transceiver so as to be able to charge the battery wirelessly. The wireless power transceiver may include a plurality of coil-shaped antenna radiators. The power module (1500) may include a power management integrated circuit (PMIC). The PMIC supplies optimized power to each of the components of the electronic device (1000).

[0209] The electronic device (1000) may further include an internal module (1600) and an external module (1700). The internal module (1600) may include a sensor module (1610), an antenna module (1620), and an audio output module (1630). The external module (1700) may include a camera module (1710), a light module (1720), and / or a communication module (1730).

[0210] The sensor module (1610) may include touch electrodes of the touchscreen layer of the display panel (1) and a touch sensor driver. The sensor module (1610) may detect input by the user's body or input by a pen and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the input. The sensor module (1610) may include at least one of a touch sensor (1611), a biosensor (1612), and a strain sensor (1613).

[0211] The touch sensor (1611) can generate data values ​​corresponding to coordinate information of input by the user's body (e.g., finger, etc.) or input by a pen. The touch sensor (1611) can generate data values ​​of a change in capacitance, a change in pressure, or an electromagnetic change resulting from the input.

[0212] The biosensor (1612) can generate data values ​​that recognize a part of the user's body (e.g., fingerprint, iris, face, etc.) or generate data values ​​corresponding to body information (e.g., blood pressure, water content, heart rate, body composition, etc.). The biosensor (1612) can use an optical method, an ultrasonic method, or a capacitive method.

[0213] The strain sensor (1613) may include layers, patterns, or wirings in which a measurable physical quantity changes according to the stretching of the display panel (1). For example, the strain sensor (1613) may include layers, patterns, or wirings in which pressure, resistance, and / or capacitance changes due to the stretching of the display panel (1). In another embodiment, the strain sensor (1613) may include an optical layer or optical pattern in which transmittance and / or reflectance changes due to the stretching of the display panel (1).

[0214] Based on the change in physical quantity due to the stretching of the display panel (1) measured by the strain sensor (1613), the electronic device (1000) can improve the quality of the image implemented on the display panel (1) or control the display panel (1). The control operation of the display panel (1) may include, for example, displaying an operation image for the protection of the display panel (1), cutting off the voltage for driving the display panel (1), or stopping the stretching operation of the display panel (1).

[0215] In one embodiment, at least one of a touch sensor (1611), a biosensor (1612), and a strain sensor (1613) may be embedded in the display panel (1). For example, at least one of the touch sensor (1611), the biosensor (1612), and the strain sensor (1613) may be formed through a process that is continuous with the process of forming the pixel driving circuit and / or light-emitting element of the display panel (1). As a result, the display panel (1) may function as one of the input modules (1300) that provide an input interface between the electronic device (1000) and the user, and may also function as a display module (1400) that provides an output interface between the electronic device (1000) and the user.

[0216] In one embodiment, at least two of the touch sensor (1611), biosensor (1612), and strain sensor (1613) may be formed to be integrated into a single sensing panel through the same process. In one embodiment, the sensing panel may be positioned between the display panel (1) and the window cover positioned on the front of the display panel (1), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0217] The antenna module (1620) may include one or more antennas for transmitting a signal or power to the outside or receiving it from the outside. According to one embodiment, the communication module (1730) may transmit a signal to an external electronic device or receive it from an external electronic device through an antenna suitable for a communication method. The antenna pattern of the antenna module (1620) may be integrated into one component of the display module (1400) (e.g., a display panel (1)) or an input sensor (1612), etc.

[0218] The sound output module (1630) is a device for outputting sound signals to the outside of the electronic device (1000), and can output sound data received from the communication module (1730) or stored in the memory (1200) in call signal reception, call mode or recording mode, voice recognition mode, broadcast reception mode, etc. The sound output module (1630) can output sound signals related to functions performed in the electronic device (1000) (e.g., call signal reception sound, message reception sound, etc.). The sound output module (1630) may include a receiver and a speaker. At least one of the receiver and the speaker may be a sound generating device attached to the rear of the display panel (1) to vibrate the display panel (1) and output sound. The sound generating device may be a piezoelectric element or a piezoelectric actuator that contracts and expands according to an electric signal, or an exciter that generates magnetic force using a voice coil to vibrate the display panel (1).

[0219] The camera module (1710) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (1710) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, or image signal processors. The camera module (1710) may further include an infrared camera capable of measuring the presence or absence of a user, the location of the user, the user's gaze, etc.

[0220] The light module (1720) can use light from a light source to output a signal to indicate the occurrence of an event or provide light for image acquisition. Here, examples of event occurrences may include receiving a message, receiving a call signal, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notification, receiving an email, or receiving battery charge capacity information notifications. The light module (1720) may include a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. The light module (1720) may emit single-color or multiple-color light toward the front or rear of the electronic device (1000). The light module (1720) may operate in conjunction with the camera module (1710) or operate independently.

[0221] The communication module (1730) can support the establishment of a wired or wireless communication channel between an electronic device (1000) and an external electronic device (2000), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1730) may include one or both of a wireless communication module, such as, for example, a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module, and a wired communication module, such as, for example, a LAN (local area network) communication module or a power line communication module. The communication module (1730) can transmit and receive wireless signals over an internet network using at least one of WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Direct, and DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) technologies. In some aspects, the communication module (1730) may use Bluetooth TM Short-range communication can be supported by using at least one of the following technologies: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus). The various types of communication modules (1730) described above may be implemented as a single chip or each as a separate chip.

[0222] FIGS. 15a to 15i are schematic perspective views illustrating embodiments of an electronic device including a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0223] Referring to FIG. 15a, a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention can be utilized in a wearable electronic device (1000A) that can be worn on a part of a user's body. The wearable electronic device (1000A) may include a body portion (3110) and a display portion (3120) provided on the body portion (3110). The display panel according to embodiments of the present invention can be used as the display portion (3120) of the wearable electronic device (1000A). As illustrated in FIG. 15a, the wearable electronic device (1000A) may be modified. In one embodiment, it can be used as a smart watch or a smartphone depending on the user's choice.

[0224] FIG. 15b illustrates a medical electronic device (1000B). In one embodiment, the medical electronic device (1000B) may include a body portion (3210) and a light-emitting portion (3220). A display panel according to embodiments of the present invention may be used as the light-emitting portion (3220) of the medical electronic device (1000B). The light-emitting portion (3220) may emit light of a specific wavelength band (e.g., infrared, visible light, etc.) to the patient's body. In one embodiment, the body portion (3210) may have a stretchable fiber material and may have a structure that can be worn on the user's body.

[0225] FIG. 15c illustrates an educational electronic device (1000C). In one embodiment, the educational electronic device may include a display unit (3320) provided within a housing (3310). The display unit (3320) may utilize a display panel according to embodiments of the present invention. The display unit (3320) may provide images such as, for example, a sea with waves, a snow-covered mountain, or a volcano with flowing lava, wherein the display unit (3320) may extend in the height direction (e.g., z-direction) to reflect the height of the waves, mountain, or volcano. In some embodiments, a portion of the display unit (3320) may sequentially vary in height along the direction of the lava flow to show the movement of the lava in three dimensions. The educational electronic device (1000C) may include a plurality of pins (or stroke units, 3330) arranged on the back of the display unit (3320) so that the display unit (3320) extends in the height direction. The pins (3330) can be implemented to move along a third direction (e.g., z direction or -z direction) so that the image displayed on the display unit (3320) has a three-dimensional height. FIG. 15c illustrates an educational electronic device (1000C), but its use is not limited as long as it provides a certain image information.

[0226] FIGS. 15d and FIGS. 15e illustrate the use of a display panel in a wearable electronic device (1000D-1, 1000D-2), such as a smart watch, for example.

[0227] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 15d, the display panel corresponding to the display unit (3320) of the electronic device (1000D-1) can be stretched three-dimensionally, so it can provide various haptic information to the user in addition to visual information through images. In one embodiment, the electronic device (1000D-1) can provide haptic information, such as Braille markings for the visually impaired or tactile stimulation linked to images, by using a plurality of pins (or stroke unit, 3330) placed below the display unit (3320), for example. Since the display panel forming the display unit (3320) can be stretched three-dimensionally, it can provide the aforementioned haptic information to the user. The electronic device (1000D-1) may include a body part (3311) comprising a housing (3314) in which a display panel forming a display part (3320) and pins (or stroke part, 3330) are housed, and a frame (3312) that can be coupled to the housing (3314) with the display panel in between. In some embodiments, the frame (3312) may be formed integrally with the housing (3314).

[0228] The electronic device (1000D-2) of FIG. 15e may include a body part (3311) as in FIG. 15d and a display part (3320) that is housed in the body part (3311) and can provide visual information. In some embodiments, the display panel corresponding to the display part (3320) may include a dome-shaped display part (3320) because it is stretchable in three dimensions. In one embodiment, the display panel may be assembled on a dome-shaped body frame during the manufacturing process of the electronic device (1000D-2), and at this time, since the display panel is stretchable in three dimensions, it may be assembled in a stretched state along the shape of a hemispherical body frame.

[0229] FIG. 15f illustrates that in one embodiment of the present invention, another electronic device (1000E) includes a robot. The robot can recognize movement or objects using a camera module (3470) and can display a predetermined image to a user through a display unit (3420, 3430).

[0230] As some embodiments, display panels according to one embodiment of the present invention can be assembled to a body frame having a hemispherical shape because they can be extended in various directions as described above, and thus the robot may include a hemispherical display unit (3420, 3430).

[0231] FIG. 15g illustrates a vehicle display device (1000F) as another electronic device in one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle display device (1000F) may include a cluster (3510), a Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or a co-driver display (3530). Since the display panel according to the embodiment of the present invention can be extended in various directions, it can be used for the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or the co-driver display (3530) without being constrained by the shape of the vehicle's internal frame.

[0232] FIG. 15g illustrates the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or the co-driver display (3530) being separated, but the invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, two or more selected from the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and the co-driver display (3530) may be connected as a single unit.

[0233] In some embodiments, the vehicle display device (1000F) may include a button (3540) capable of displaying a predetermined image. Referring to the enlarged view of FIG. 15g, the hemispherical button (3540) may include an object (3542) that provides a sense of use of the button while moving in the z-direction or -z-direction, and a display panel placed on the object (3542). In some embodiments, if the object (3542) has a three-dimensionally rounded surface, the display panel may also have a three-dimensionally rounded surface.

[0234] FIG. 15h illustrates that an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device (1000G) for advertising or display. In some embodiments, the electronic device (1000G) for advertising or display may be installed on a fixed structure (3610), such as a wall or a column. If the structure (3610) includes an uneven surface as shown in FIG. 15h, the electronic device (1000G) for advertising or display may also be placed along the uneven surface of the structure (3610). In some embodiments, the electronic device (1000G) for advertising or display may be installed on the structure (3610) using a heat-shrink film or the like.

[0235] FIG. 15i illustrates that an electronic device (1000H) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a controller. The controller may include image-type buttons. For example, the controller may include first to third button areas (3720, 3730, 3740) in which a portion of the display portion (3710) protrudes in the z-direction or protrudes in the -z-direction (or is recessed in the z-direction). In some embodiments, the first and third button areas (3720, 3740) may protrude in the z-direction, and the second button area (3730) may protrude in the -z-direction (or be recessed in the z-direction).

[0236] The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, but this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel including a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area, Island sections spaced apart from each other along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the above display area, wherein light-emitting elements are respectively arranged; and It includes bridge sections connecting two adjacent island sections among the above island sections, The above island portions include adjacent first island portions and second island portions along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first imaginary line extending along the first direction through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion. Among the above bridge sections, the bridge section connecting the first island section and the second island section is, A first curve section connected to the first island section above; A second curve section connected to the second island section above; and It includes a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, A display panel, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island section and the second side of the second island section facing each other, the first curve section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curve section is connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

2. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the first curve section and the second curve section are point-symmetric with respect to the center of the straight section.

3. In Paragraph 2, The first curved portion is connected to the third side of the first island portion and is positioned adjacent to the corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion. A display panel in which the second curve portion is connected to the fourth side of the second island portion and is positioned adjacent to the corner between the second side and the fourth side of the second island portion.

4. In Paragraph 3, A display panel in which the corner between the first side and the third side of the first island portion includes a chamfer.

5. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which each of the first curve portion and the second curve portion has the shape of an arc having a central angle, and the angle of the central angle is greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

6. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the width of the first curved section is substantially the same as the width of the straight section.

7. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the width of a part of the first curve section is greater than the width of the straight section.

8. In Paragraph 1, A display panel comprising a straight section that includes a side facing the first side of the first island section, wherein the side of the straight section is substantially parallel to the first side of the first island section.

9. In Paragraph 1, A display panel comprising a straight section including a side facing the first side of the first island section, wherein the side of the straight section extends along a direction oblique to the first side of the first island section.

10. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the length of the straight section is smaller than the length of the first side of the first island section.

11. In Paragraph 1, The aforementioned Irish departments, It further includes a third island section and a fourth island section arranged along the second direction and positioned adjacent to the first island section and the second island section, A display panel in which the center of the first island section, the center of the second island section, the center of the third island section, and the center of the fourth island section are each positioned at the vertices of a virtual quadrilateral.

12. In Paragraph 11, A display panel in which the straight line portion of the bridge portion intersects one side of the virtual rectangle.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above-mentioned imaginary rectangle is a display panel including a square or a rhombus.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above display panel is stretchable, A display panel in which, when the above display panel is extended, the first island portion rotates clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis passing through the center of the first island portion.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned first Irish division is, It includes pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits, and A display panel in which the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements are different.

16. A display panel including a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area, Island portions spaced apart from each other along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the above display area; and It includes bridge sections connecting two adjacent island sections among the above island sections, The above island portions include adjacent first island portions and second island portions along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first imaginary line extending along the first direction through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion. The above-mentioned first Irish division is, It includes pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements electrically connected to the pixel driving circuits, and A display panel in which the arrangement direction of the pixel driving circuits and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements are different.

17. In Paragraph 16, Among the above bridge sections, the bridge section connecting the first island section and the second island section is, A first curve section connected to the first island section above; A second curve section connected to the second island section above; and It includes a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, A display panel, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island section and the second side of the second island section facing each other, the first curve section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curve section is connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

18. In Paragraph 16, The above display panel is stretchable, A display panel in which, when the above display panel is extended, the first island portion rotates clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis passing through the center of the first island portion.

19. A display panel providing an image; and It includes a housing in which the above-mentioned display panel is housed, The above display panel is, Island sections, each having light-emitting elements arranged thereon and spaced apart from one another along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; and It includes bridge sections connecting two adjacent island sections among the above island sections, and The above island portions include adjacent first island portions and second island portions along the first direction, and each of the first island portion and the second island portion includes at least one side that intersects a first imaginary line extending along the first direction through the center of the first island portion and the center of the second island portion. Among the above bridge sections, the bridge section connecting the first island section and the second island section is, A first curve section connected to the first island section above; A second curve section connected to the second island section above; and It includes a straight section between the first curve section and the second curve section, An electronic device, wherein the straight section is located between the first side of the first island section and the second side of the second island section facing each other, the first curved section is connected to the third side of the first island section that intersects the first side of the first island section, and the second curved section is connected to the fourth side of the second island section that intersects the second side of the second island section.

20. In Paragraph 19, An electronic device further comprising a strain sensor for measuring a physical quantity according to the elongation of the display panel.

Images