Bendable Display Panel Structure to Prevent Layer Delamination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Bending stress in display panels can cause delamination of layers, particularly in the bending region, which compromises the structural integrity and functionality of bendable display devices.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of an anti-delamination structure with protrusion patterns and multiple protective layers, including a first bending protective layer with inverted taper shapes and a second protective layer, enhances adhesion and prevents delamination in the bending region.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If the display panel is bent to reduce the bezel, then the device size is reduced and design flexibility is improved, but layer delamination occurs due to bending stress

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebendable display panelVSAvoidlayer adhesion
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by forming protrusion patterns on the bending protective layer before the bending process occurs. These protrusions create mechanical interlocking features that prevent delamination when bending stress is applied during device operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements local quality by providing different structural characteristics at different locations. The bending protective layer has protrusion patterns in the bending region while maintaining a different structure in non-bending areas, allowing localized stress management where it is most needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If multiple protective layers are added to prevent delamination, then layer adhesion is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer adhesionVSAvoidprotective layer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the protective layer into multiple functional layers: a bending protective layer with protrusion patterns specifically in the bending region, and a separate encapsulation layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses partial action by applying the protrusion pattern only in the bending region rather than across the entire protective layer. This localized approach provides delamination prevention where needed without adding unnecessary complexity to the entire device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Reliability

If the protrusion pattern is made taller to enhance adhesion, then layer bonding is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer bondingVSAvoidprotrusion height control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the protrusion height to a specific range (1-10 μm) that provides sufficient mechanical interlocking for delamination prevention while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing capabilities and not requiring excessive precision control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4156884B1Display device and method of providing the same
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • EP4156884B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4156884B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4156884B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A display device includes a substrate including a display area and a bending region which is adjacent to the display area, a pixel partition wall layer on the substrate and including a pixel-defining layer in the display area, a first bending protective layer on the substrate and including a protrusion pattern in the bending region and a bending inorganic layer on the protrusion pattern of the first bending protective layer, in the bending region, the bending inorganic layer including an outer surface having an inverted taper shape with respect to the substrate.