Display device

The display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area; and a polarization plate on the display panel, the polarization plate including a polarization layer. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern. Thus, it is possible to delay moisture absorption of a polarization layer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0095960 filed on Jul. 31, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a rollable display device in which warpage of a display panel caused by moisture may be improved.

Description of the Related Art

Display devices employed by the monitor of a computer, a TV, a mobile phone or the like include an organic light emitting display (OLED) that emits light by itself, and a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a separate light source.

As the display devices have been increasingly applied to diverse fields such as a computer monitor, a TV, and a personal mobile device, display devices having a large display area and a reduced volume and weight have been studied.

Further, recently, rollable display devices have attracted attention as a next-generation display device.

BRIEF SUMMARY

An object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device in which moisture absorption of a polarization plate can be minimized.

Another object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device in which moisture permeation occurring through side surfaces of a display panel and a polarization plate can be minimized.

Yet another object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device in which warpage of a display panel caused by moisture absorption of a polarization plate can be improved.

Still another object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device in which cracks in a substrate of a display panel caused by moisture absorption of a polarization plate can be suppressed.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area; and a polarization plate on the display panel, the polarization plate including a polarization layer. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern. The display device may also include a display part, wiring lines and other like structures on a flexible substrate made of flexible plastic and which may display an image even in a rolled configuration.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area; a polarization plate on the display panel, the polarization plate including a polarization layer; protection layers respectively disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarization layer; and a roller coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area, and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area and surrounding the first pattern. The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protection layers.

According to the present disclosure, a barrier film is disposed to surround side portions of a display panel and a polarization plate. Thus, it is possible to suppress moisture permeation.

According to the present disclosure, a polarization layer corresponding to a non-active area is patterned. Thus, it is possible to delay moisture permeation occurring through the polarization layer.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress warpage of a display panel and cracks in a substrate by suppressing moisture absorption of a polarization layer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to accompanying drawings.

Display Device-Rollable Display Device

A rollable display device may refer to a display device which can display an image even when rolled up. The rollable display device may have higher flexibility than conventional typical display devices. The rollable display device can be freely changed in shape depending on whether the rollable display device is used or not. Specifically, when the rollable display device is not used, the rollable display device can be housed as rolled up to reduce its volume. When the rollable display device is used, the rolled rollable display device can be unrolled again to be used.

FIG.1AandFIG.1Bare perspective views of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.1AandFIG.1B, a display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display part DP and a housing part HP.

The display part DP is configured to display images to a user. For example, display elements, circuits for driving the display elements, wiring lines, components, and the like may be disposed in the display part DP. Herein, the display device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a rollable display device. Therefore, the display part DP may be configured to be wound or unwound. For example, the display part DP may include a display panel and a back cover which are flexible so as to be wound or unwound. More details of the display part DP will be described later with reference toFIG.4throughFIG.6.

The housing part HP serves as a case where the display part DP may be housed. The display part DP may be wound and then housed inside the housing part HP, and the display part DP may be unwound and then presented outside the housing part HP.

The housing part HP includes an opening HPO through which the display part DP may move in and out of the housing part HP. The display part DP may move up and down through the opening HPO of the housing part HP.

Meanwhile, the display part DP of the display device100may transition from a full unwinding state to a full winding state, and vice versa.

FIG.1Ashows a full unwinding state of the display part DP of the display device100. The full unwinding state refers to a state where the display part DP of the display device100is presented outside the housing part HP. That is, the full unwinding state may be defined as a state where the display part DP is unwound to a maximum so as not to be further unwound and presented outside the housing part HP in order for the user to watch images on the display device100.

FIG.1Bshows a full winding state of the display part DP of the display device100. The full winding state refers to a state where the display part DP of the display device100is housed inside the housing part HP and may not be further wound. That is, the full winding state may be defined as a state where the display part DP is wound and housed inside the housing part HP when the user does not watch images on the display device100because the display part DP housed inside the housing part HP is preferable for the sake of external appearance. Further, in the full winding state where the display part DP is housed inside the housing part HP, the display device100is reduced in volume and easy to transport.

Meanwhile, a moving part for winding or unwinding the display part DP to change the display part DP to the full unwinding state or the full winding state is provided.

Moving Part

FIG.2is a perspective view of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.3is a schematic cross-sectional view provided to explain a roller151and the display part DP of the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. For convenience of description,FIG.3illustrates only the housing part HP, the roller151, and the display part DP.

First, referring toFIG.2, a moving part MP includes a roller unit150and an elevating unit160.

The roller unit150winds or unwinds the display part DP fixed to the roller unit150while rotating clockwise or counterclockwise. The roller unit150includes the roller151and a roller support152.

The roller151is a member around which the display part DP is wound. The roller151may have, e.g., a cylindrical shape. The lower edge of the display part DP may be fixed to the roller151. When the roller151rotates, the display part DP whose lower edge is fixed to the roller151may be wound around the roller151. On the contrary, when the roller151rotates in the opposite direction, the display part DP wound around the roller151may be unwound from the roller151.

Referring toFIG.3, the roller151may include at least a part of the outer peripheral surface having a flat surface and the other part of the outer peripheral surface having a curved surface. The roller151has a cylindrical shape overall but may be partially flat. That is, a part of the outer peripheral surface of the roller151is flat and the other part of the outer peripheral surface is curved. At least one flexible film130and a printed circuit board140of the display part DP may be mounted on the flat surface part of the roller151. The roller151may be a completely cylindrical shape or may have any shape around which the display part DP may be wound, but is not limited thereto.

Referring toFIG.2again, the roller support152supports the roller151from both sides of the roller151. Specifically, the roller supports152are placed on a bottom surface HPF of the housing part HP. Further, upper side surfaces of the respective roller supports152are combined with both ends of the roller151. Thus, the roller support152may support the roller151so as to be spaced apart from the bottom surface HPF of the housing part HP. Herein, the roller151may be rotatably combined with the roller support152.

The elevating unit160moves the display part DP up and down according to driving of the roller unit150. The elevating unit160includes a link unit161, a head bar162, a slide rail163, a slider164, a motor165, and a rotating unit166.

The link unit161of the elevating unit160includes a plurality of links161aand161band a hinge unit161cthat connects the plurality of links161aand161b. Specifically, the plurality of links161aand161bincludes a first link161aand a second link161b. The first link161aand the second link161bare crossed in the form of scissors and rotatably hinged to each other via the hinge unit161c. Thus, when the link unit161moves up and down, the plurality of links161aand161bmay rotate in a direction to be farther from or closer to each other.

The head bar162of the elevating unit160is fixed to the uppermost end of the display part DP. The head bar162is connected to the link unit161and may move the display part DP up and down according to rotation of the plurality of links161aand161bof the link unit161. That is, the display part DP may be moved up and down by the head bar162and the link unit161.

The head bar162covers only a part of a surface adjacent to the uppermost edge of the display part DP so as not to cover images displayed on the front surface of the display part DP. The display part DP and the head bar162may be fixed by screws, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The slide rail163of the elevating unit160provides travel paths of the plurality of links161aand161b. A part of the plurality of links161aand161bmay be rotatably clamped to the slide rail163and its movement may be guided along the track of the slide rail163. A part of the plurality of links161aand161bmay be clamped to the slider164movably provided along the slide rail163and moved along the track of the slide rail163.

The motor165may be connected to a power generation unit, such as a separate external power supply or a built-in battery, and supplied with power from the power generation unit. The motor165generates rotatory power and supplies driving force to the rotating unit166.

The rotating unit166is connected to the motor165and configured to covert rotational movement of the motor165into linear reciprocal movement. That is, the rotating unit166may convert rotational movement of the motor165into linear reciprocal movement of a structure fixed to the rotating unit166. For example, the rotating unit166may be implemented as a ball screw including a shaft and a nut clamped to the shaft, but is not limited thereto.

The motor165and the rotating unit166may elevate the display part DP in line with the link unit161. The link unit161has a link structure and may receive driving force from the motor165and the rotating unit166and repeatedly perform folding and unfolding operations.

Specifically, when the motor165is driven, the structure of the rotating unit166may make linear movement. That is, a part of the rotating unit166connected to one end of the second link161bmay make linear movement. Thus, the one end of the second link161bmay move toward the motor165. Also, the plurality of links161aand161bis folded, and, thus, the height of the link unit161may decrease. Further, while the plurality of links161aand161bis folded, the head bar162connected to the first link161ais moved down. Also, one end of the display part DP connected to the head bar162is also moved down.

Therefore, when the display part DP is fully wound around the roller151, the link unit161of the elevating unit160maintains a folded state. That is, when the display part DP is fully wound around the roller151, the elevating unit160may have a minimum height. When the display part DP is fully unwound, the link unit161of the elevating unit160maintains an unfolded state. That is, when the display part DP is fully unwound, the elevating unit160may have a maximum height.

Meanwhile, when the display part DP is wound, the roller151may rotate and the display part DP may be wound around the roller151. Referring toFIG.3, as an example, the lower edge of the display part DP is connected to the roller151. Further, when the roller151rotates in a first direction DR1, i.e., clockwise, the display part DP may be wound around the roller151so that a rear surface of the display part DP may be closely contacted with a surface of the roller151.

When the display part DP is unwound, the roller151may rotate and the display part DP may be unwound from the roller151. Referring toFIG.3, as an example, when the roller151rotates in a second direction DR2, i.e., counterclockwise, the display part DP wound around the roller151may be unwound from the roller151and then presented outside the housing part HP.

In some embodiments, the moving part MP different in structure from the above-described moving part MP may also be applied to the display device100. That is, the roller unit150and the elevating unit160described above may be changed in configuration as long as the display part DP may be wound and unwound. Some of their components may be omitted or other components may be added.

Display Part

FIG.4is a plan view of the display part of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.5is a cross-sectional view of the display part of the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.4, the display part DP includes the back cover110, the display panel120, the flexible film130, the printed circuit board140, a barrier film170and a polarization plate180.

The display panel120is configured to display images to the user. In the display panel120, display elements for displaying images, driving elements for driving the display elements, and wiring lines for transmitting various signals to the display elements and the driving elements may be disposed. The display elements may be defined differently depending on the kind of the display panel120. For example, if the display panel120is an organic light emitting display panel, the display elements may be organic light emitting elements each composed of an anode, an organic emission layer, and a cathode. For example, if the display panel120is a liquid crystal display panel, the display elements may be liquid crystal display elements. Hereinafter, the display panel120will be assumed as an organic light emitting display panel, but the display panel120is not limited to the organic light emitting display panel. Further, since the display device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a rollable display device, the display panel120may be implemented as a flexible display panel to be wound around or unwound from the roller151.

The display panel120includes an active area AA and a non-active area NA.

The active area AA refers to an area where an image is displayed on the display panel120. In the active area AA, a plurality of pixels including a plurality of sub-pixels and a circuit for driving the plurality of sub-pixels may be disposed. The plurality of sub-pixels is a minimum unit of the active area AA, and a display element may be disposed on each of the plurality of sub-pixels. For example, an organic light emitting element composed of an anode, an organic emission layer, and a cathode may be disposed on each of the plurality of sub-pixels, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Further, the circuit for driving the plurality of sub-pixels may include a driving element, a wiring line, and the like. For example, the circuit may be composed of a thin film transistor, a storage capacitor, a gate line, a data line, etc., but is not limited thereto.

The non-active area NA refers to an area where an image is not displayed. The non-active area NA may be extended from the active area AA. In the non-active area NA, various wiring lines, circuits, and the like for driving the organic light emitting elements in the active area AA may be disposed. For example, link lines for transmitting signals to the plurality of sub-pixels and circuits in the active area AA or driver ICs such as a gate driver IC and a data driver IC may be disposed in the non-active area NA. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The barrier film170and the polarization plate180may be disposed on the display panel120. The barrier film170and the polarization plate180will be described later with reference toFIG.6.

The flexible film130includes various components on a flexible base film and serves to supply signals to the plurality of sub-pixels and circuits in the active area AA. The flexible film130may be electrically connected to the display panel120. The flexible film130is placed on one end of the non-active area NA of the display panel120and supplies power voltage, data voltage, etc., to the plurality of sub-pixels and circuits in the active area AA. The number of flexible films130illustrated inFIG.4is just an example and is not limited thereto. The number of flexible films130may be changed variously depending on the design and is not limited thereto.

Meanwhile, on the flexible film130, driver ICs such as a gate driver IC and a data driver IC may be disposed. The driver ICs are components configured to process data for displaying an image and a driving signal for processing the data. The driver ICs may be mounted in a Chip On Glass (COG) method, a Chip On Film (COF) method, a Tape Carrier Package (TCP), or the like. For convenience of description, the driver ICs are described as mounted on the flexible film130in the COF method, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The printed circuit board140is disposed on one end of the flexible film130and connected to the flexible film130. The printed circuit board140is configured to supply signals to the driver ICs. The printed circuit board140supplies various signals such as a drive signal, a data signal, etc., to the driver ICs. In the printed circuit board140, various components may be disposed. For example, a timing controller, a power supply unit, etc., may be disposed on the printed circuit board140. Meanwhile,FIG.4illustrates two printed circuit boards140. However, the number of printed circuit boards140is not limited thereto and may be changed variously depending on the design.

Meanwhile, although not illustrated inFIG.4, an additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board140may be further disposed. For example, the printed circuit board140may be referred to as a source printed circuit board (source PCB) S-PCB on which a data driver is mounted. The additional printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board140may be referred to as a control printed circuit board (control PCB) C-PCB on which a timing controller or the like is mounted. The additional printed circuit board may be disposed inside the roller151, or may be disposed within the housing part HP outside the roller151.

The back cover110is disposed on rear surfaces of the display panel120, the flexible film130, and the printed circuit board140and supports the display panel120, the flexible film130, and the printed circuit board140. Thus, the back cover110may be larger in size than the display panel120. The back cover110may protect the other components of the display part DP against the external environment. The back cover110may be made of a rigid material, but at least a part of the back cover110may have flexibility so as to be wound or unwound along with the display panel120. For example, the back cover110may be made of a metal material such as Steel Use Stainless (SUS) or Invar, or plastic. However, the material of the back cover110is not limited thereto. The material of the back cover110may be changed variously depending on the design as long as it may satisfy property requirements such as amount of thermal deformation, radius of curvature, rigidity, etc.

The back cover110includes a plurality of supporting areas PA, a fixing area FA and a plurality of flexible areas MA. In the plurality of supporting areas PA and the fixing area FA, a plurality of openings111is not disposed. In the plurality of flexible areas MA, the plurality of openings111is disposed. Specifically, a first supporting area PA1, a first flexible area MA1, the fixing areas FA1and FA2, a second flexible area MA2and a second supporting area PA2are disposed in sequence from the uppermost end of the back cover110.

The first supporting area PA1of the back cover110is the uppermost area of the back cover110and clamped to the head bar162. The first supporting area PA1includes first alignment holes AH1so as to be clamped to the head bar162. In this case, the first supporting area PA1may be clamped to head bar162by means of screws, but is not limited thereto. Since the first supporting area PA1is clamped to the head bar162, the back cover110may move up or down at the same time when the link unit161clamped to the head bar162moves up or down. The display panel120attached to the back cover110may also move up or down.FIG.4illustrates five first alignment holes AH1, but the number of first alignment holes AH1is not limited thereto. Further,FIG.4illustrates that the back cover110is clamped to the head bar162using the first alignment holes AH1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Further, the back cover110may be clamped to the head bar162without alignment holes.

The first flexible area MA1is extended from the first supporting area PA1to the lower side of the back cover110. In the first flexible area MA1, the plurality of openings111is disposed. The display panel120is attached to the first flexible area MA1.

When the display part DP is wound around the roller151so as to be housed inside the housing part HP, the first flexible area MA1of the back cover110may be wound around the roller151. A lower end portion and a central portion of the display panel120attached to the first flexible area MA1may also be wound around the roller151. Here, the first flexible area MA1of the back cover110includes the plurality of openings111. Thus, the first flexible area MA1of the back cover110may have high flexibility and may be easily wound around the roller151together with the display panel120.

The fixing area FA is extended from the first flexible area MA1to the lower side of the back cover110. The fixing area FA enables the flexible film130and the printed circuit board140to be wound so as not to be curved but to be flat around the roller151to protect the flexible film130and the printed circuit board140. Further, the roller151may also be partially flat corresponding to the fixing area FA.

A plurality of fixing holes112is disposed in the fixing area FA. Each of the plurality of fixing holes112is disposed between flexible films130. Thus, it is possible to more stably fix the flexible films130and the printed circuit board140to the fixing area FA. Meanwhile, the number of fixing holes112illustrated inFIG.4is just an example and may be determined based on the number of printed circuit boards140, the number of flexible films130, etc.

Meanwhile, the back cover110may be divided into a first back cover110aand a second back cover110bwith a plurality of fixing holes112in a first fixing area FA1and a plurality of fixing holes112in a second fixing area FA2interposed therebetween. That is, the first back cover110aincludes the first supporting area PA1, the first flexible area MA1and the first fixing area FA1, and the second back cover110bincludes the second fixing area FA2, the second flexible area MA2and the second supporting area PA2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The back cover110may be formed as one body.

The second flexible area MA2is extended from the fixing area FA to the lower side of the back cover110. Further, in the second flexible area MA2, the plurality of openings111is disposed.

The second flexible area MA2is extended to enable an active area AA of the display panel120to be presented outside the housing part HP. For example, when the back cover110and the display panel120are in the full unwinding state, an area ranging from the second supporting area PA2of the back cover110fixed to the roller151to the fixing area FA to which the flexible film130and the printed circuit board140are attached may be placed inside the housing part HP. At the same time, the first flexible area MA1to which the display panel120is attached and the fixing area FA may be presented outside the housing part HP. In this case, if a length from the second supporting area PA2fixed to the roller151to the second flexible area MA2and the fixing area FA is smaller than a length from the second supporting area PA2to the opening HPO of the housing part HP, a part of the first flexible area MA1to which the display panel120is attached may be placed inside the housing part HP. Thus, since a part of a lower end of the active area AA of the display panel120is placed inside the housing part HP, it may be difficult to watch images. Therefore, the length from the second supporting area PA2fixed to the roller151to the second flexible area MA2and the fixing area FA may be designed to be equal to the length from the second supporting area PA2fixed to the roller151to the opening HPO of the housing part HP.

The second supporting area PA2of the back cover110is the lowermost area of the back cover110and clamped and fixed to the roller151. The second supporting area PA2may include second alignment holes AH2so as to be clamped to the roller151. In this case, the second supporting area PA2may be clamped to the roller151by screws, but is not limited thereto. Since the second supporting area PA2is clamped to the roller151, the back cover110may be wound around or unwound from the roller151as the roller151is rotated.FIG.4illustrates two second alignment holes AH2, but the number of second alignment holes AH2is not limited thereto. Also,FIG.4illustrates that the back cover110is clamped to the roller151using the second alignment holes AH2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The back cover110may be fixed to the roller151without alignment holes.

The flexible area MA of the back cover110is wound around or unwound from the roller151along with the display panel120. The flexible area MA may overlap at least the display panel120among the other components of the display part DP.

The plurality of openings111is disposed in the flexible area MA of the back cover110. During winding or unwinding of the display part DP, the plurality of openings111may be deformed by stress applied to the display part DP. Specifically, during winding or unwinding of the display part DP, the flexible area MA of the back cover110may be deformed as the plurality of openings111contracts or expands. Further, since the plurality of openings111contracts or expands, a slip phenomenon of the display panel120disposed on the flexible area MA of the back cover110may be minimized. Therefore, stress applied to the display panel120may be minimized.

Referring toFIG.4, the plurality of openings111is misaligned with the plurality of openings111of adjacent rows. For example, the plurality of openings111of one row is misaligned with the plurality of openings111of rows adjacent to the corresponding row. Specifically, the centers of plurality of openings111in odd-numbered rows may be misaligned with the centers of the plurality of openings111in even-numbered rows by as much as, e.g., ½ of a row-direction width of each opening111. The placement of the plurality of openings111shown inFIG.4is just an example, but is not limited thereto.

In this case, the plurality of openings111formed in the flexible area MA is not formed in the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2. That is, only the first alignment holes AH1and the second alignment holes AH2are formed in each of the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2. However, the plurality of openings111formed in the flexible area MA is not formed in the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2. Further, the first alignment holes AH1and the second alignment holes AH2are different in shape from the plurality of openings111. The first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2are fixed to the head bar162and the roller151, respectively. Thus, the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2need to have higher rigidity than the flexible area MA. Specifically, since the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2have rigidity, the first supporting area PA1and the second supporting area PA2may be securely fixed to the head bar162and the roller151. Therefore, the display part DP is fixed to the roller151and the head bar162of the moving part MP and may move in and out of the housing part HP according to an operation of the moving part MP.

In the display device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the back cover110including the plurality of openings111is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel120to support and protect the display panel120. The back cover110may be made of a metal material and thus may have rigidity. Also, the flexible area MA of the back cover110in which the display panel120is disposed includes the plurality of openings111, and, thus, the back cover110may have improved flexibility. Therefore, in the full unwinding state in which the display part DP of the display device100is presented outside the housing part HP, the back cover110made of a rigid material and having high rigidity may support the display panel120to be spread flat. On the contrary, in the full winding state in which the display part DP of the display device100is housed inside the housing part HP, the back cover110having high flexibility due to the plurality of openings111may be wound around the roller151and housed together with the display panel120.

Further, in the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the back cover110includes the first back cover110aand the second back cover110bspaced apart from each other. Thus, the back cover110may be formed so as to correspond to various sizes of the display panel120. As the size of the display device100increases, the size of the display panel120also increases. In this case, the back cover110needs to be larger in size than the display panel120. Therefore, the single back cover110needs to be manufactured to a large size. However, it is very difficult to manufacture the single back cover110corresponding to a large-size display device in the manufacturing process. Accordingly, in the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the back cover110is configured including the first back cover110aand the second back cover110b. Thus, the first back cover110aand the second back cover110bwhich are smaller in size than the display device100may be used. Meanwhile, although not illustrated in the drawings, a base plate, a bottom cover, a top cover and a fixing member are used to fix the first back cover110aand the second back cover110b.

Referring toFIG.5, the back cover110is disposed on the rear surface of the display panel120, and the barrier film170and the polarization plate180are disposed on a front surface of the display panel120. Herein, the front surface of the display panel120may refer to a surface corresponding to a view direction, and the rear surface of the display panel120may refer to a surface on the opposite side to the view direction.

The display panel120includes a substrate121, a buffer layer122, a pixel unit123, an encapsulation layer124, and an encapsulation substrate125.

The substrate121serves as a base member to support various components of the display panel120and may be made of an insulating material. The substrate121may be made of a flexible material in order for the display panel120to be wound or unwound. For example, the substrate121may be made of a plastic material such as polyimide (PI).

The buffer layer122may suppress diffusion of moisture and/or oxygen permeating from the outside of the substrate121. The buffer layer122may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer of silicon oxide (SiOx) and silicon nitride (SiNx), but is not limited thereto.

The pixel unit123includes a plurality of organic light emitting elements and circuits for driving the organic light emitting elements. The pixel unit123may correspond to the active area AA. Each organic light emitting element may include an anode, an organic emission layer, and a cathode.

The anode may supply holes into the organic emission layer and may be made of a conductive material having a high work function. For example, the anode may be made of tin oxide (TO), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium zinc tin oxide (ITZO), or the like, but is not limited thereto.

The organic emission layer may receive holes from the anode and electrons from the cathode and emit light. The organic emission layer may be one of a red organic emission layer, a green organic emission layer, a blue organic emission layer, a white organic emission layer, and the like depending on the color of light emitted from the organic emission layer. At this time, if the organic emission layer is a white organic emission layer, color filters of various colors may be further provided.

The cathode may supply electrons into the organic emission layer and may be made of a conductive layer having a low work function. For example, the cathode may be made of one or more materials selected from the group consisting of metals such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), and aluminum (Al) and alloys thereof, but is not limited thereto.

Meanwhile, the display panel120may be classified into a top emission type or a bottom emission type according to a transmission direction of light emitted from the organic light emitting element.

In the top emission type, light emitted from the organic light emitting element is discharged toward the upper side of the substrate121on which the organic light emitting element is formed. If the display panel120is of top emission type, a reflective layer may be further provided under the anode. This is to discharge light emitted from the organic light emitting element toward the upper side of the substrate121, i.e., toward the cathode.

In the bottom emission type, light emitted from the organic light emitting element is discharged toward the lower side of the substrate121on which the organic light emitting element is formed. If the display panel120is of bottom emission type, the anode may be made of a transparent conductive material only and the cathode may be made of a metal material having high reflectivity. This is to discharge light emitted from the organic light emitting element toward the lower side of the substrate121.

Hereafter, for convenience of description, the display device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described as a bottom emission type display device, but is not limited thereto.

In the pixel unit123, a circuit for driving organic light emitting elements is disposed. The circuit may be composed of a TFT, a storage capacitor, a gate line, a data line, a power line, etc. The components of the circuit may be changed variously depending on the design of the display device100.

The encapsulation layer124covering the pixel unit123is disposed on the pixel unit123. The encapsulation layer124seals the organic light emitting elements of the pixel unit123. The encapsulation layer124may protect the organic light emitting elements of the pixel unit123against external moisture, oxygen, impacts, and the like. The encapsulation layer124may be formed by alternately laminating a plurality of inorganic layers and a plurality of organic layers. For example, the inorganic layers may be made of inorganic materials such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), and aluminum oxide (AlOx), but are not limited thereto. For example, the organic layers may be made of epoxy-based or acryl-based polymers, but are not limited thereto.

The encapsulation substrate125is disposed on the encapsulation layer124. The encapsulation substrate125protects the organic light emitting elements of the pixel unit123together with the encapsulation layer124. The encapsulation substrate125may protect the organic light emitting elements of the pixel unit123against external moisture, oxygen, impacts, and the like. The encapsulation substrate125may be made of a metal material which has high corrosion resistance and may be easily processed into foil or thin film. Examples of the metal material may include aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and an alloy of iron (Fe) and Ni. Accordingly, since the encapsulation substrate125is made of a metal material, the encapsulation substrate125may be implemented in the form of an ultra-thin film and may provide high resistance to external impacts and scratches.

A first adhesive layer AD1may be disposed between the encapsulation layer124and the encapsulation substrate125. The first adhesive layer AD1may bond the encapsulation layer124and the encapsulation substrate125. The first adhesive layer AD1may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally-curable adhesive. For example, the first adhesive layer AD1may be made of an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like, but is not limited thereto.

The first adhesive layer AD1may be disposed to cover the encapsulation layer124and the pixel unit123. That is, the pixel unit123may be sealed by the buffer layer122and the encapsulation layer124and the encapsulation layer124and the pixel unit123may be sealed by the buffer layer122and the first adhesive layer AD1. The first adhesive layer AD1may protect the organic light emitting elements of the pixel unit123against external moisture, oxygen, impacts, and the like, together with the encapsulation layer124and the encapsulation substrate125. Herein, the first adhesive layer AD1may further contain a moisture absorbent. The moisture absorbent may include hygroscopic particles and may absorb moisture and oxygen from the outside to minimize permeation of moisture and oxygen into the pixel unit123.

The back cover110is disposed on the encapsulation substrate125. The back cover110may be disposed to be in contact with the encapsulation substrate125of the display panel120to protect the display panel120. The back cover110may be made of a rigid material to protect the display panel120.

A second adhesive member AD2is disposed between the encapsulation substrate125and the back cover110. The second adhesive member AD2may bond the encapsulation substrate125and the back cover110. The second adhesive member AD2may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally-curable adhesive. For example, the adhesive member AD2may be made of an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like, but is not limited thereto.

A micro seal MS may be disposed on side surfaces of the display panel120. The micro seal MS may be disposed between the substrate121and the back cover110so as to surround the side surfaces of the display panel120. That is, side portions of the display panel120may be sealed by the micro seal MS. The micro seal MS may protect the display panel120against external moisture, oxygen, impacts, and the like. The micro seal MS may be made of a photo-curable acrylic resin, etc., but is not limited thereto.

The barrier film170is disposed on the front surface of the display panel120. The barrier film170may protect the display panel120against external impacts, moisture, heat, and the like. The barrier film170may be made of a polymer resin which is light and unbreakable. For example, the barrier film170may be made of a cyclo olefin polymer (COP), but is not limited thereto. The barrier film170may also be made of polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and the like.

A third adhesive layer AD3may be disposed between the display panel120and the barrier film170. The third adhesive layer AD3may bond the display panel120and the barrier film170. The third adhesive layer AD3may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally-curable adhesive. For example, the third adhesive layer AD3may be made of an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like, but is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, the third adhesive layer AD3and the barrier film170are illustrated as separate components, but are not limited thereto. The third adhesive layer AD3may be a component of the barrier film170.

The polarization plate180is disposed on the barrier film170. The polarization plate180is configured to suppress reflection and recognition of external light incident upon the display device100. The polarization plate180may have a structure in which a plurality of layers is laminated.

A fourth adhesive layer AD4may be disposed between the barrier film170and the polarization plate180. The fourth adhesive layer AD4may bond the barrier film170and the polarization plate180. The fourth adhesive layer AD4may be made of an adhesive material and may be a thermosetting or naturally-curable adhesive. For example, the fourth adhesive layer AD4may be made of an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or the like, but is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, the fourth adhesive layer AD4, the barrier film170and the polarization plate180are illustrated as separate components, but are not limited thereto. The fourth adhesive layer AD4may be a component of the barrier film170or the polarization plate180.

Hereinafter, the polarization plate180will be described in more detail with reference toFIG.6.

Specific Structure of Polarization Plate

FIG.6is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an area A ofFIG.5.

Referring toFIG.6, the polarization plate180includes a phase delay layer181, a first protection layer182, a polarization layer183, a second protection layer184, and a surface layer185.

The phase delay layer181may have a transmission axis in the range of ±45 degrees based on the angle of polarization of external light in the polarization layer183. Thus, external light incident upon the phase delay layer181may be circularly polarized through the phase delay layer181.

The polarization layer183may linearly polarize light incident from the outside of the display device100. The polarization layer183may be formed as a stretched film of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based polymer film containing iodine or dichroic dye, but is not limited thereto.

The first protection layer182and the second protection layer184are respectively disposed on both surfaces of the polarization layer183. The polarization layer183is made of a PVA-based material that absorbs moisture well. Thus, if the first protection layer182and the second protection layer184are respectively disposed on the both surfaces of the polarization layer183, it is possible to suppress damage to the polarization layer183caused by heat or moisture. The first protection layer182and the second protection layer184may be made of a material having no phase difference so as not to affect a polarization state of the polarization layer183. For example, the first protection layer182and the second protection layer184may be made of triacetyl cellulose (TAC), but is not limited thereto.

The surface layer185is disposed on an outermost side of the polarization plate180and enhances a mechanical strength of the polarization plate180. Further, the surface layer185serves to suppress glare and reflection and thus improves visibility of the display device100. The surface layer185may be formed as an anti-glare (AG) layer, a semi-glare (SG) layer, a low-reflection (LR) layer and an anti-glare & low-reflection (AGLR) layer formed by a surface treatment method, but is not limited thereto.

The polarization layer183includes a first pattern183aand a second pattern183b. The first pattern183aand the second pattern183bmay be formed by patterning a layer of a material forming the polarization layer183. Here, patterning of the polarization layer183may be performed only in a region corresponding to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. If patterning of the polarization layer183is also performed in a region corresponding to the active area AA, the patterned regions may be recognized or polarization efficiency may decrease. Thus, patterning of the polarization layer183may be performed only in a region corresponding to the non-active area NA.

The first pattern183amay correspond to the active area AA, and the second pattern183bmay correspond to the non-active area NA. That is, the first pattern183amay overlap the active area AA of the display panel120, and the second pattern183bmay overlap the non-active area NA of the display panel120. Thus, the second pattern183bmay be formed to surround the first pattern183a. In the drawing, the second pattern183bis illustrated as including a plurality of second patterns183b, but is not limited thereto. The second pattern183bmay be formed as a single second pattern183b.

The first pattern183aand the second pattern183bmay be spaced apart from each other by a hole H formed by patterning. Further, if a plurality of second patterns183bis formed, the plurality of second patterns183bmay be spaced apart from each other by the hole H formed by patterning. That is, the first pattern183aand the plurality of second patterns183bmay be spaced apart from each other to be disposed. Also, the hole H may be filled with the second protection layer184or the first protection layer182. Since the polarization layer183is divided into the first pattern183aand the second pattern183b, moisture absorption of the polarization layer183may be delayed. Specifically, infiltration of moisture and oxygen may occur from the second pattern183b, which is a side portion of the polarization plate180, toward the first pattern183a, which is a central portion of the polarization plate180. Here, the divided patterns183aand183bof the polarization layer183may absorb moisture and oxygen independently of each other. Further, a moving path of moisture and oxygen may be lengthened or blocked by the protection layers182and184disposed on the hole H between the patterns183aand183b. Therefore, infiltration of moisture and oxygen into the region of the polarization layer183corresponding to the active area AA may be delayed. Also, degradation in quality and warpage caused by moisture absorption of the polarization layer183may be suppressed.

In general, a polarization plate of a display device includes a PVA-based polymer film as a polarization layer to polarize incident light. However, a PVA-based polymer material may decrease in modulus when exposed to moisture. Therefore, a neutral plane of a display panel is moved, which may cause an increase in stress applied to a substrate and thus results in cracks in the substrate.

Also, the PVA-based polymer material is excellent in moisture absorption and thus changes in volume depending on the humidity. That is, the polarization layer may absorb moisture and expand in a high-humidity environment, and may discharge moisture and contract in a low-humidity environment. Thus, warpage occurs in a stretching direction of the polarization layer. Accordingly, warpage occurs in the polarization plate and the display panel to which the polarization plate is attached.

However, in the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion of the polarization layer183corresponding to the non-active area NA is patterned to delay moisture absorption. Specifically, the polarization layer183may be patterned so that the first pattern183acorresponding to the active area AA and the second pattern183bcorresponding to the non-active area NA are spaced apart from each other. Also, the second pattern183bmay be disposed to surround the first pattern183a. Thus, even if moisture or oxygen infiltrates through side portions of the polarization plate180, the second pattern183bdisposed on a side portion of the polarization layer183may independently absorb moisture. Therefore, moisture absorption of the first pattern183amay be delayed. Here, the second pattern183bis a part of the polarization layer183corresponding to the non-active area NA. Thus, most of the polarization layer183is formed as the first pattern183a. Therefore, the second pattern183bmay suppress overall deformation and warpage of the polarization layer183.

Also, in the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the protection layers182and184may be disposed on the hole H between the first pattern183aand the second pattern183bof the polarization layer183. That is, the first pattern183aand the second pattern183bmay be spaced apart from each other by the protection layers182and184. Thus, the protection layers182and184may block moisture or oxygen flowing from the second pattern183btoward the first pattern183aor lengthen a moving path thereof. Therefore, it is possible to minimize infiltration of moisture or oxygen into the first pattern183a.

Further, in the display device100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of second patterns183bmay be formed, and the plurality of second patterns183bmay be spaced apart from each other by the protection layers182and184. That is, moisture absorption of the plurality of second patterns183bmay occur sequentially from the second pattern183bdisposed on an outer side of the polarization layer183toward the second pattern183badjacent to the first pattern183a. Furthermore, the protection layers182and184may be disposed between a plurality of second patterns183badjacent to each other to minimize the progress of moisture absorption from the outside of the plurality of second patterns183btoward the first pattern183a. Thus, moisture absorption and deformation of the first pattern183amay be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in modulus of the polarization layer183and suppress cracks in the substrate121. Also, it is possible to minimize warpage of the polarization layer183and suppress warpage of the display panel120. Moreover, it is possible to suppress deformation of the polarization layer183and thus possible to improve the display quality and reliability of the display device100.

Pattern Structure of Polarization Layer

FIG.7AthroughFIG.7Eare plan views of a polarization layer according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.7AthroughFIG.7Eillustrate only one corner of the polarization layer183and its adjacent partial region for convenience in explanation, the same structure may be applied to the other non-illustrated regions. Meanwhile, any one or a combination of the structures of the polarization layer183shown inFIG.7AthroughFIG.7Emay be applied to the polarization layer183shown inFIG.6. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As long as a region of the polarization layer183corresponding to the non-active area NA is patterned, various pattern structures may be applied.

Referring toFIG.7A, the polarization layer183includes a first pattern710aand a second pattern720a. The first pattern710amay correspond to the active area AA of the display panel120, and the second pattern720amay correspond to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. The second pattern720amay be disposed to surround the first pattern710a. Particularly, the second pattern720amay have a closed loop shape. The first pattern710aand the second pattern720amay be spaced apart from each other by a hole H. Also, the hole H between the first pattern710aand the second pattern720amay have a closed loop shape. Further, although not illustrated in the drawings, any one of the protection layers182and184disposed on the hole H may have a closed loop shape. Thus, even if moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the polarization plate180, the second pattern720acorresponding to the non-active area NA may first absorb moisture independently. Also, even if moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the hole H, the protection layers182and184inside the hole H may block such infiltration and lengthen a moving path of moisture and oxygen. Therefore, the second pattern720aand the hole H serve as a barrier and thus minimize moisture absorption of the first pattern710a.

Referring toFIG.7B, the polarization layer183includes a first pattern710band second patterns721band722b. The first pattern710amay correspond to the active area AA of the display panel120, and the second patterns721band722bmay correspond to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. The second patterns721band722bmay include a plurality of first sub-patterns721band a plurality of second sub-patterns722b. The plurality of first sub-patterns721bmay be disposed so as to correspond to edges of the first pattern710b. The plurality of first sub-patterns721bmay have a line shape. The plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay be disposed between the plurality of first sub-patterns721bso as to correspond to a corner of the first pattern710b. The plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay have a dot shape. The plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay be disposed to surround the first pattern710b. The plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay be disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns. The first pattern710b, the plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay be spaced apart from each other by a hole H. Further, the hole H may be formed into a plurality of lines disposed in rows or columns.

Meanwhile, the numbers and shapes of the plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bshown inFIG.7Bmay be variously changed as necessary.

If moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the polarization plate180, moisture absorption may independently occur in some of the plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bdisposed on an outermost side. Also, the plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bare disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns, and, thus, the spread of moisture and oxygen may be further delayed. Here, the plurality of first sub-patterns721band the plurality of second sub-patterns722bmay be spaced apart from each other by the hole H formed into a plurality of lines disposed in rows or columns. Thus, the protection layers182and184inside the hole H may block infiltration of moisture and oxygen and lengthen a moving path of moisture and oxygen. Therefore, the plurality of first sub-patterns721b, the plurality of second sub-patterns722band the hole H serve as a barrier and thus minimize moisture absorption of the first pattern710b.

Referring toFIG.7C, the polarization layer183includes a first pattern710cand a plurality of second patterns720c. The first pattern710cmay correspond to the active area AA of the display panel120, and the plurality of second patterns720cmay correspond to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. The plurality of second patterns720cmay be formed into a dot shape. The plurality of second patterns720cmay be disposed to surround the first pattern710c. The plurality of second patterns720cmay be disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns. The first pattern710cand the plurality of second patterns720cmay be spaced apart from each other by a hole H. Further, the hole H may be formed into a plurality of lines disposed in rows or columns.

Meanwhile, although the plurality of second patterns720cis illustrated as being identical to each other in the drawing, the plurality of second patterns720cmay be formed in various sizes. Also, the plurality of second patterns720cmay be divided into a plurality of first sub-patterns corresponding to edges of the first pattern710cand a plurality of second sub-patterns corresponding to a corner of the first pattern710c. Further, the number and shape of the plurality of second patterns720cshown inFIG.7Cmay be variously changed as necessary.

If moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the polarization plate180, moisture absorption may independently occur in some of the plurality of second patterns720cdisposed on an outermost side. Also, the plurality of second patterns720cis disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns, and, thus, the spread of moisture and oxygen may be further delayed. Here, the plurality of second patterns720cmay be spaced apart from each other by the hole H formed into a plurality of lines disposed in rows or columns. Thus, the protection layers182and184inside the hole H may block infiltration of moisture and oxygen and lengthen a moving path of moisture and oxygen. Therefore, the plurality of second patterns720cand the hole H serve as a barrier and thus minimize moisture absorption of the first pattern710c.

Referring toFIG.7D, the polarization layer183includes a first pattern710dand a plurality of second patterns720d. Each of the plurality of second patterns720dmay also be referred to as a sub-pattern. The first pattern710dmay correspond to the active area AA of the display panel120, and the plurality of second patterns720dmay correspond to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. Each of the plurality of second patterns720dmay be disposed to surround the first pattern710d. Particularly, each of the plurality of second patterns720dmay have a closed loop shape. That is, the plurality of second patterns720deach formed into a closed loop shape may be sequentially disposed to be away from the first pattern710d. The first pattern710dand the plurality of second patterns720dmay be spaced apart from each other by a plurality of holes H. Also, the plurality of holes H between the first pattern710dthe plurality of second patterns720dmay have a closed loop shape. Further, although not illustrated in the drawings, any one of the protection layers182and184disposed on the holes H may have a closed loop shape.

Meanwhile, the number and shape of the plurality of second patterns720dshown inFIG.7Dmay be variously changed as necessary.

If moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the polarization plate180, moisture absorption may independently occur in the second patterns720ddisposed on an outermost side. Also, due to the placement of the plurality of second patterns720d, the spread of moisture and oxygen may be further delayed. Here, the plurality of second patterns720dmay be spaced apart from each other by the plurality of holes H. Thus, the protection layers182and184inside the holes H may block infiltration of moisture and oxygen and lengthen a moving path of moisture and oxygen. Particularly, the plurality of holes H as well as the plurality of second patterns720dhas a closed loop shape, and, thus, moisture and oxygen may be trapped within the closed loops. Thus, the spread of moisture and oxygen may be more effectively delayed. Therefore, the plurality of second patterns720dand the plurality of holes H serve as a barrier and thus minimize moisture absorption of the first pattern710d.

Referring toFIG.7E, the polarization layer183includes a first pattern710eand second patterns721eand722e. The first pattern710emay correspond to the active area AA of the display panel120, and the second patterns721eand722emay correspond to the non-active area NA of the display panel120. The second patterns721eand722emay include a plurality of first sub-patterns721eand a plurality of second sub-patterns722e. The plurality of first sub-patterns721emay be disposed so as to correspond to edges of the first pattern710e. The plurality of second sub-patterns722emay be disposed between the plurality of first sub-patterns721eso as to correspond to a corner of the first pattern710e. At least some of outlines of the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand outlines of the plurality of second sub-patterns722emay have a zigzag shape. The plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722emay be disposed to surround the first pattern710e. The plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722emay be disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns. The first pattern710e, the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722emay be spaced apart from each other by a hole H. Also, the hole H may be formed into a plurality of lines each having a zigzag outline and disposed in rows or columns.

Meanwhile, the numbers and shapes of the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722eshown inFIG.7Emay be variously changed as necessary.

If moisture and oxygen infiltrate into the polarization plate180, moisture absorption may independently occur in some of the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722edisposed on an outermost side. Also, the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722eare disposed in a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns, and, thus, the spread of moisture and oxygen may be further delayed. Here, the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722emay be spaced apart from each other by the hole H formed into a plurality of lines disposed in rows or columns. Thus, the protection layers182and184inside the hole H may block infiltration of moisture and oxygen and lengthen a moving path of moisture and oxygen. Particularly, the hole H as well as the plurality of first sub-patterns721eand the plurality of second sub-patterns722ehas a zigzag shape, and, thus, the moving path of moisture and oxygen may be further lengthened. Therefore, the plurality of first sub-patterns721e, the plurality of second sub-patterns722eand the hole H serve as a barrier and thus minimize moisture absorption of the first pattern710e.

Deformation of Barrier Film

FIG.8is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a display part of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. A display device800shown inFIG.8has substantially the same configuration as the display device100shown inFIG.5andFIG.6except the positions of the polarization plate180and a barrier film870. Thus, a repeated description will be omitted.

Referring toFIG.8, the polarization plate180is disposed on the front surface of the display panel120. Also, the barrier film870is disposed on the polarization plate180. That is, the barrier film870may be disposed on an outermost side of the display panel120. The barrier film870may protect the display panel120against external impacts, moisture, heat, and the like. The barrier film870may be made of a polymer resin which is light and unbreakable. For example, the barrier film870may be made of a cyclo olefin polymer (COP), but is not limited thereto. The barrier film870may also be made of polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and the like.

In the display device800according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the barrier film870is disposed to cover the polarization plate180and thus more effectively protect the polarization plate180. Specifically, the barrier film870may minimize moisture permeation occurring through a front surface of the polarization plate180. Thus, it is possible to minimize moisture absorption of the polarization layer183and suppress warpage of the polarization layer183. Therefore, it is possible to suppress warpage of the display panel120and improve reliability of the display device800.

FIG.9is a plan view of a display part of a display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.10is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display part of the display device according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. A display device900shown inFIG.9andFIG.10has substantially the same configuration as the display device800shown inFIG.8except a barrier film970. Thus, a repeated description will be omitted.

Referring toFIG.9andFIG.10, the barrier film970may be extended to one surface of the back cover110while covering side surfaces of the display panel120and the polarization plate180. Herein, the one surface of the back cover110may refer to a surface on which the display panel120is disposed.

The barrier film970may be extended to cover a part of the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180. Specifically, the barrier film970may be extended to cover the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180from sides other than one side of the display panel120where the flexible film130is disposed. That is, the barrier film970may cover three side portions on the top, left and right sides of four sides of the display panel120shown inFIG.9. Since the barrier film970is not disposed in a region where the flexible film130is disposed, interference between the barrier film970and the flexible film130may be minimized. Also, the barrier film970may be extended to the one surface of the back cover110from the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180, but is not limited thereto. The barrier film970may be extended to cover only the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180.

In the display device900according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the barrier film970covers a part of the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180. Thus, the part of the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180may be completely surrounded by the barrier film970, the back cover110, the micro seal MS and the second adhesive layer AD2. Therefore, the barrier film970may minimize moisture permeation occurring through the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180.

Further, if the barrier film970disposed at the side portions of the display panel120and the polarization plate180is extended to the one surface of the back cover110, moisture permeation may be more effectively suppressed. That is, the barrier film970is extended along the one surface of the back cover110, and, thus, the sealing effect for the display panel120and the polarization plate180may be increased. Furthermore, a moisture permeation path may be further increased along a contact surface between the barrier film970and the back cover110. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively suppress moisture permeation occurring through the display panel120and the polarization plate180.

Also, even if moisture permeation occurs through the side portions of the polarization plate180, the second pattern183bspaced apart from the first pattern183aand surrounding the first pattern183amay be disposed on an outside of the polarization layer183. Therefore, moisture absorption may independently occur in the second pattern183b, and moisture absorption in the first pattern183amay be delayed and suppressed. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress deformation of the polarization layer183and also possible to suppress cracks in the substrate121and warpage of the display panel120.

Moisture Absorption Test on Polarization Layer

FIG.11AandFIG.11Bshow moisture absorption test results on polarization layers according to a comparative embodiment and an embodiment, respectively.FIG.11Ashows a moisture absorption test result on a polarization layer according to the comparative embodiment, andFIG.11Bshows a moisture absorption test result on a polarization layer according to the embodiment. A non-patterned polarization layer was applied to the comparative embodiment, and a polarization layer having a zigzag pattern similar to the pattern shown inFIG.7Ewas applied to the embodiment. Also, moisture absorption progressed from the right side to the left side of the polarization layer. Thus, a part of the polarization layer where moisture is absorbed is transparent, and a normal part of the polarization layer where moisture is not absorbed has a dark color.

Referring toFIG.11A, it may be seen that there is a difference between a normal part on the left side and a moisture-absorbed part on the right side due to moisture absorption of the polarization layer. That is, it may be seen that deformation of the polarization layer occurs along a progress direction of moisture absorption. Particularly, it may be seen that the polarization layer is not patterned, and, thus, deformation expands gradually in a middle part between the normal part and the moisture-absorbed part and most of the polarization layer absorbs moisture.

Referring toFIG.11B, it may be seen that there is a distinct boundary between a normal pattern on the left side and a moisture-absorbed pattern on the right side. That is, the polarization layer according to the embodiment is patterned, and, thus, the left pattern and the right pattern may be spaced apart from each other. Therefore, even if moisture absorption occurs, moisture absorption occurs independently in the right pattern, and, thus, it is possible to suppress expansion of moisture absorption to the left pattern. Accordingly, moisture absorption over the entire polarization layer may be delayed, and, thus, warpage of the polarization layer may be suppressed.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area; and a polarization plate on the display panel, the polarization plate including a polarization layer. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area, and the second pattern is spaced apart from the first pattern.

The second pattern may be disposed to surround the first pattern.

The second pattern may include a plurality of sub-patterns, and one or more of the plurality of sub-patterns may have a closed loop shape surrounding the first pattern.

The second pattern may include a plurality of first sub-patterns corresponding to edges of the first pattern; and a plurality of second sub-patterns disposed between ends of the plurality of first sub-patterns and corresponding to a corners of the first pattern.

The plurality of first sub-patterns may have a line shape, and the plurality of second sub-patterns may have a dot shape.

The plurality of first sub-patterns and the plurality of second sub-patterns may have a dot shape.

The plurality of first sub-patterns may have outlines and the plurality of second sub-patterns may have outlines, at least one of the outlines of the plurality of first sub-patterns and at least one of the outlines of the plurality of second sub-patterns having a zigzag shape.

The display device may further include a back cover on a rear surface of the display panel; and a barrier film on the polarization plate.

The barrier film may cover at least a part of side portions of the polarization plate and at least a part of side portions of the display panel.

The display panel may have a first side and a plurality of second sides different from the first side. The display device may further include a flexible film on the first side of the display panel. The barrier film may cover the side portions of the polarization plate and the side portions of the display panel on the plurality of second sides.

The barrier film may be in contact with one surface of the back cover.

The display device may further include a roller coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel and the back cover.

The polarization plate may further include protection layers respectively disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarization layer. The first pattern and the second pattern may be spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protection layers.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display device includes a display panel including an active area and a non-active area; a polarization plate on the display panel, the polarization plate including a polarization layer; protection layers respectively disposed on opposite surfaces of the polarization layer; and a roller coupled to the display panel and configured to wind or unwind the display panel. The polarization layer includes a first pattern corresponding to the active area, and a second pattern corresponding to the non-active area and surrounding the first pattern. The first pattern and the second pattern are spaced apart from each other by at least one of the protection layers.

The second pattern may include a plurality of sub-patterns, and one or more of the plurality of sub-patterns may have a closed loop shape surrounding the first pattern.

The protection layers between the first pattern and the second pattern may have a closed loop shape.

The second pattern may include a plurality of sub-patterns, and at least one of the plurality of sub-patterns may have a line shape or a dot shape.

The second pattern may include a plurality of sub-patterns each having outlines, and at least one of the outlines of the plurality of sub-patterns may have a zigzag shape.

The display device may further include a back cover on a rear surface of the display panel; and a barrier film on the polarization plate.

The barrier film may extend to one surface of the back cover and may covers a part of side surfaces of the display panel.