Display device including flexible printed circuit board and for detecting separation of the flexible printed circuit board

A display device includes a display panel, a conductive layer disposed under the display panel, a first flexible printed circuit board including a first substrate portion having a side connected to the display panel, a bending portion extending from the first substrate portion, and a second substrate portion extending from the bending portion and disposed under the conductive layer. The second substrate portion includes a first sensing pattern. The display device further includes a coupling portion disposed between the second substrate portion and the conductive layer and coupling the second substrate portion and the conductive layer. The display device further includes a driver chip electrically connected to the first sensing pattern and configured to detect whether the coupling portion has been separated from either the second substrate portion or the conductive layer based on a capacitance that depends on a distance between the conductive layer and the first sensing pattern.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0039481, filed on Apr. 5, 2018, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a display device including a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), and more particularly, to a display device including a flexible printed circuit board and for detecting separation of the flexible printed circuit board.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Various display devices such as liquid crystal displays and organic light emitting displays are currently under development.

A display device may include a display panel and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) connected to the display panel, and a part of the FPCB may be bent and fixed to the display panel.

As applications and functions of display devices become diversified, display devices may include a sensing function to interact with a user, in addition to a function of displaying an image. For example, a recent display device may include not only a display panel and an FPCB but also a touch sensing unit for sensing a touch input of a user.

Various elements may be located on the FPCB. The FPCB that is fixed to the display panel can be separated from the display panel due to the elastic restoring force of the FPCB. Accordingly, of the elements located on the FPCB, an element that should be coupled to the display panel can also be separated from the display panel.

SUMMARY

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a display panel, a conductive layer disposed under the display panel, a first flexible printed circuit board including a first substrate portion having a side connected to the display panel, a bending portion extending from the first substrate portion, and a second substrate portion extending from the bending portion and disposed under the conductive layer. The first substrate portion overlaps the display panel, and the second substrate portion includes a first sensing pattern. The display device further includes a coupling portion disposed between the second substrate portion and the conductive layer and coupling the second substrate portion and the conductive layer together. The coupling portion is adjacent to the first sensing pattern. The display device further includes a driver chip electrically connected to the first sensing pattern and configured to detect whether the coupling portion has been separated from either the second substrate portion or the conductive layer based on a capacitance that depends on a distance between the conductive layer and the first sensing pattern.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern at least partially surrounds the coupling portion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern includes a plurality of sub-sensing patterns disposed adjacent to the coupling portion. The plurality of sub-sensing patterns are spaced apart from each other.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip is disposed on the second substrate portion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display device further includes a touch sensing unit disposed on the display panel, and a second flexible printed circuit board including a first side connected to the touch sensing unit and a second side connected to the second substrate portion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip is configured to control an operation of the touch sensing unit.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the coupling portion includes a conductive adhesive tape.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board further includes a ground portion, and the coupling portion contacts the ground portion and the conductive layer.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display device further includes a main circuit board connected to the first flexible printed circuit board. The main circuit board is electrically connected to the driver chip.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the main circuit board is configured to control the display panel to perform a predetermined operation when the coupling portion is separated from either the conductive layer or the second substrate portion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display device further includes a pressure sensor disposed between the second substrate portion and the conductive layer, coupled to the second substrate portion and the conductive layer, and spaced apart from the coupling portion. The second substrate portion further includes a second sensing pattern disposed adjacent to the pressure sensor and electrically connected to the driver chip, and the driver chip is further configured to detect whether the pressure sensor has been separated from either the second substrate portion or the conductive layer based on a capacitance that is dependent on a distance between the conductive layer and the second sensing pattern.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board further includes a first connection line electrically connected to the first sensing pattern and the driver chip, and a second connection line spaced apart from the first connection line and electrically connected to the second sensing pattern and the driver chip.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible printed circuit board further includes a sensor connection line electrically connected to the pressure sensor and the driver chip and spaced apart from the first connection line and the second connection line.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second sensing pattern at least partially surrounds the pressure sensor.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second sensing pattern includes a plurality of sub-sensing patterns disposed adjacent to the pressure sensor. The plurality of sub-sensing patterns are spaced apart from each other.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a display panel, a conductive layer disposed on the display panel, a flexible printed circuit board including a first substrate portion having a side connected to the display panel, a second substrate portion disposed under the conductive layer, and a bending portion connecting the first substrate portion and the second substrate portion to each other. The first substrate portion overlaps the display panel, and the second substrate portion includes a sensing pattern. The display device further includes a pressure sensor disposed between the second substrate portion and the conductive layer. The pressure sensor is adjacent to the sensing pattern, and is coupled to the second substrate portion and the conductive layer. The display device further includes a driver chip electrically connected to the sensing pattern, configured to detect whether the pressure sensor has been separated from either the second substrate portion or the conductive layer based on a capacitance that is dependent upon a distance between the conductive layer and the sensing pattern, and disposed on the second substrate portion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display device further including a touch sensing unit disposed on the display panel. The driver chip is electrically connected to the touch sensing unit and is configured to control an operation of the touch sensing unit.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip is electrically connected to the pressure sensor and is configured to control an operation of the pressure sensor.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a flexible printed circuit board includes a first substrate portion connected to an electronic device, a bending portion extending from the first substrate portion, a second substrate portion extending from the bending portion and including a ground portion, a first sensing pattern disposed adjacent to the ground portion and configured to detect a capacitance, a driver chip connection portion spaced apart from the ground portion and the first sensing pattern, and a first connection line electrically connecting the first sensing pattern and the driver chip connection portion to each other.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second substrate portion further includes a sensor connection portion spaced apart from the ground portion and the driver chip connection portion. The second substrate portion further includes a second sensing pattern disposed adjacent to the sensor connection portion, spaced apart from the first sensing pattern, and configured to detect a capacitance. The second substrate portion additionally includes a sensor connection line electrically connected to the sensor connection portion and the driver chip connection portion. The second substrate portion further includes a second connection line electrically connected to the second sensing pattern and the driver chip connection portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In describing exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology may be employed for sake of clarity. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the concept of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout the specification and the drawings.

FIG. 1is an exploded perspective view of a display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2is a plan view of the display device1according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 3is a rear view of the display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 4is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1-A1′ ofFIG. 3according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 5is a cross-sectional view taken along line B1-B1′ ofFIG. 3according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIGS. 1 through 5, the display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel500, a first flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)600connected to the display panel500, a conductive layer700located on the display panel500, a driver chip TIC, a coupling portion800, and a pressure sensor900. As an example, the conductive layer700may be located under the display panel500. The display device1may further include a touch sensing unit300located on the display panel500, a second FPCB400connected to the touch sensing unit300, and a window structure100.

The display panel500may be rectangular in a plan view. The display panel500may include both short sides extending in a first direction x and both long sides extending in a second direction y intersecting the first direction x. For example, corners at which the long sides and the short sides of the display panel500meet may be at substantially right angles. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the corners of the display panel500may be curved or may be chamfered to reduce the risk of breakage or cracking. The planar shape of the display panel500is not limited to the above examples and may also be a circular shape or other quadrangular shapes.

The display panel500includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA is an area where an image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is an area where an image is not displayed. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the non-display area NDA may be located around the display area DA and may at least partially surround the display area DA. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the non-display area NDA may completely surround the display area DA.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display panel500may be a display panel including a self-luminous element. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the self-luminous element may be at least one of an organic light emitting diode, a quantum dot light emitting diode (LED), and an inorganic material-based ultra-small LED (e.g., a micro LED).

For ease of description, a case where the self-luminous element is an organic light emitting diode will hereinafter be described as an example, and a detailed description of each element of the display panel500will be described later with reference toFIG. 6.

A panel driver chip PIC may be located on the display panel500in the non-display area NDA. The panel driver chip PIC may generate a driving signal for driving the display panel500, and the generated driving signal may be provided to the display panel500.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the panel driver chip PIC may be mounted on the display panel500. For example, when a base substrate of the display panel500is made of glass, the panel driver chip PIC may be mounted on the base substrate in the form of a chip on glass (COG). In addition, when the base substrate is made of plastic, the panel driver chip PIC may be mounted on the base substrate in the form of a chip on plastic (COP). In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the panel driver chip PIC may be located on the first FPCB600or on a main circuit board MP. A case where the panel driver chip PIC is mounted on the display panel500in the non-display area NDA will hereinafter be described as an example.

The window structure100may be located on the display panel500.

The window structure100may be located on the display panel500to protect the display panel500from external impacts, scratches, and the like. The window structure100may include a light transmitting area TA and a light blocking area BA. The light transmitting area TA is an area through which light is transmitted, and an image from the display panel500may be transmitted through the light transmitting area TA and provided to a user. The light blocking area BA may be an area for blocking light transmission. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light blocking area BA may be located around the light transmitting area TA and may at least partially surround the light transmitting area TA. In an exemplary embodiment present invention, the light transmitting area TA may overlap the display area DA of the display panel500, and the light blocking area BA may overlap the non-display area NDA of the display panel500. For example, the light blocking area BA may hide the non-display area NDA of the display panel500. As an additional example, the light transmitting area TA may have a shape that corresponds to the display area DA, and the light blocking area BA may have a shape that corresponds to the non-display area NDA.

The window structure100may have a stacked structure including a window110and a light shielding member130.

The window110may be made of, for example, glass, sapphire, plastic, or the like. The window110may be rigid. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the window100may be flexible or partially flexible.

The light shielding member130may be located on a surface of the window110which faces the display panel500. The light shielding member130may block light from the light blocking area BA of the window structure100. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light shielding member130may be made of a colored organic layer and may be formed on the surface of the window110by, for example, a coating method or a printing method.

The touch sensing unit300may be disposed between the display panel500and the window structure100.

The touch sensing unit300may sense the position of a touch input from the outside (e.g., a user). In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the touch sensing unit300may obtain the coordinates of a touch input point using a capacitive method. In the capacitive method, coordinate information of a touched point may be obtained in a self-capacitance or mutual capacitance manner. For ease of description, a case where the touch sensing unit300has a mutual capacitive structure will hereinafter be described as an example.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the touch sensing unit300may be integrated with the display panel500. For example, touch electrodes of the touch sensing unit300may be located directly on an encapsulation portion, of the display panel500. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the touch sensing unit300may be formed separately from the display panel500and may be coupled to the display panel500by a separate bonding layer.

The touch sensing unit300and the window structure100may be coupled by a transparent bonding layer200such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) or an optically clear resin (OCR).

The conductive layer700may be disposed under the display panel500. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the conductive layer700may be a metal layer and may include various materials capable of shielding electromagnetic waves and having thermal conductivity. For example, the conductive layer700may be a heat dissipation layer or an electromagnetic wave shielding layer. For example, the conductive layer700may include a metal such as copper, nickel, ferrite, and/or silver.

Although not illustrated in the drawings, a light absorbing layer may be disposed between the display panel500and the conductive layer700. The light absorbing layer disposed between the display panel500and the conductive layer700may block a transmission of light and may prevent elements disposed under the display panel500from being visible outside the display device1.

The first FPCB600may be connected to the display panel500. The first FPCB600is configured to receive a signal for controlling the panel driver chip PIC and may be coupled to the display panel500in the non-display area NDA.

The first FPCB600may include a first substrate portion610, a bending portion630, and a second substrate portion650. The first FPCB600may further include a first connection portion661and a second connection portion663.

The first substrate portion610is a portion of the first FPCB600which is coupled to the display panel500in the non-display area NDA. The first substrate portion610may overlap the display panel500and may be coupled to a pad portion or the like, provided on the display panel500. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first substrate portion610may be coupled to the pad portion by an anisotropic conductive film. In addition, the first substrate portion610may be coupled to the pad portion using an ultrasonic bonding method. The first substrate portion610may be located at a portion of the non-display area NDA which is adjacent to one short side of the display panel500extending along the first direction x.

The bending portion630is a portion extending from the first substrate portion610. The bending portion630may extend from the first substrate portion610in the second direction y and may be bent toward a lower surface of the display panel500or the conductive layer700. For example, the bending portion630may be bent around the display panel500and the conductive layer700. For example, the bending portion630is a bendable portion and may be bent when the first FPCB600is bent. The bending portion630might not overlap the display panel500.

The second substrate portion650is a portion extending from the bending portion630and may be located under the conductive layer700. The second substrate portion650may include a first surface facing the conductive layer700when the bending portion630is bent and a second surface opposite the first surface.

The second substrate portion650may include a first sensing pattern671, a second sensing pattern673, a ground portion681, a driver chip connection portion683, a sensor connection portion685, a first connection line691, a second connection line693, and a sensor connection line695which are spaced apart from each other.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern671, the ground portion681, the driver chip connection portion683, and the sensor connection portion685may respectively be formed as exposed conductive pads that form the surface of the second substrate portion650. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern671, the ground portion681, the driver chip connection portion683, and the sensor connection portion685may be formed on the surface of the second substrate portion650.

The ground portion681is a portion electrically connected to an external circuit and is grounded. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a ground signal or a ground voltage may be applied to the ground portion681. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the ground portion681may be located on the first surface side of the second substrate portion650which faces the conductive layer700.

The driver chip connection portion683is a portion on which the driver chip TIC to be described later is mounted. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip connection portion683may be located on the second surface of the second substrate portion650which is opposite the first surface facing the conductive layer700.

The sensor connection portion685is a portion connected to a connection terminal901of the pressure sensor900to be described later. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sensor connection685may be located on the first surface side of the second substrate portion650which faces the conductive layer700. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sensor connection portion685may be electrically connected to the driver chip connection portion683by the sensor connection line695and may be controlled by the driver chip TIC mounted on the driver chip connection portion683. The sensor connection line695may be spaced apart from the first connection line691and the second connection line693and might not be connected to the first connection line691and the second connection line693.

The first sensing pattern671may be spaced apart from the ground portion681and located adjacent to the ground portion681by a distance. The first sensing pattern671is for detecting peeling or lifting of the coupling portion800.

For example, the peeling or lifting of the coupling portion800denotes that at least a part of the coupling portion800is separated from an element to which the coupling portion800is attached. As an additional example, the peeling or lifting of the coupling portion800denotes that at least a part of the coupling portion800is separated from the conductive layer700or that at least a part of the coupling portion800is separated from the second substrate portion650.

An inspection signal (e.g., a voltage) may be provided to the first sensing pattern671. A capacitance may be formed between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern671may be electrically connected to the driver chip connection portion683by the first connection line691. The first sensing pattern671may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC mounted on the driver chip connection portion683. The first connection line691may be spaced apart from the sensor connection line695and might not be connected to the sensor connection line695.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern671may be located on the first surface side of the second substrate portion650which faces the conductive layer700and may surround the ground portion681in a plan view. The first sensing pattern671may completely surround the ground portion681. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first sensing pattern671may partially surround the ground portion681.

The second sensing pattern673may be spaced apart from the sensor connection portion685and located adjacent to the sensor connection portion685. The second sensing pattern673is for detecting the peeling or lifting of the pressure sensor900. An inspection signal (e.g., a voltage) may be transmitted to the second sensing pattern673. A capacitance may be formed between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second sensing pattern673may be electrically connected to the driver chip connection portion683. The second sensing pattern673may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC mounted on the driver chip connection portion683. For example, the second sensing pattern673may be electrically connected to the driver chip connection portion683by the second connection line693. The second connection line693and the first connection line691may be spaced apart from each other and might not be connected to each other. Therefore, the first sensing pattern671and the second sensing pattern673may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC independently.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second sensing pattern673may be located on the first surface side of the second substrate portion650which faces the conductive layer700and may surround the sensor connection portion685in a plan view. The second sensing pattern673may completely surround the sensor connection portion685. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second sensing pattern673may partially surround the sensor connection portion685.

The first connection portion661may be located on the second substrate portion650. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connection portion661may be located on the second surface side of the second substrate portion650which is opposite the first surface side facing the conductive layer700. The first connection portion661may be connected to the second FPCB400to be described later. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connection portion661may be in the form of a connector. For example, when a connection portion451included in the second FPCB400is in the form of a female connector, the first connection portion661may be in the form of a male connector. In addition, when the connection portion451included in the second FPCB400is in the form of a male connector, the first connection portion661may be in the form of a female connector. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the first connection portion661is not limited to the description above. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connection portion661may be in the form of a pad or the like.

The second connection portion663is a portion for receiving a signal from the outside (e.g., an external device). In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connection portion663may be connected to the main circuit board MP. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connection portion663may be a part of the second substrate portion650or may be located on the second substrate portion650. For example, the second connection portion663may be connected to the second substrate portion650, or the second connection portion663and the second substrate portion650may be single body.

The main circuit board MP may be connected to the second connection portion663. The main circuit board MP may control the overall function of the display device1. For example, the main circuit board MP may provide image data according to the driving of the display device1to the panel driver chip PIC via the first FPCB600. In addition, the main circuit board MP may receive a signal from the driver chip TIC via the first FPCB600and may control the driving of the display device1in response to the received signal.

The driver chip TIC may be mounted on the first FPCB600. The driver chip TIC may control the operation of the touch sensing unit300. The driver chip TIC may provide a driving signal to the touch sensing unit300and may receive a sensing signal generated by the touch sensing unit300. In addition, the driver chip TIC may detect touch information (e.g., touch position, etc.) based on the received sensing signal. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip TIC may be mounted on the driver chip connection portion683of the second substrate portion650.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the drive chip TIC may be electrically connected to the pressure sensor900and may control the operation of the pressure sensor900. The driver chip TIC may provide a driving signal to the pressure sensor900and may receive a sensing signal generated by the pressure sensor900. In addition, the driver chip TIC may detect touch information (e.g., touch pressure, touch position, etc.) based on the received sensing signal.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driver chip TIC may be electrically connected to the first sensing pattern671and the second sensing pattern673. The driver chip TIC may provide an inspection signal (a voltage or the like) to each of the first sensing pattern671and the second sensing pattern673, and the driver chip TIC may detect the lifting of the coupling portion800and/or the lifting of the pressure sensor900based on a result signal received in response to the inspection signal. As described above, the driver chip TIC may provide an inspection signal to each of the first sensing pattern671and the second sensing pattern673independently, and the driver chip TIC may receive a result signal from each of the first sensing pattern671and the second sensing pattern673independently.

The coupling portion800is a portion for coupling the second substrate portion650of the first flexible circuit substrate600and the conductive layer700to each other, and the coupling portion800may be located between the second substrate portion650and the conductive layer700.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the coupling portion800may be made of a double-sided adhesive tape, and the double-sided adhesive tape may have conductivity. The coupling portion800having conductivity may contact the ground portion681of the second substrate portion650and the conductive layer700. A ground signal (or a ground voltage) transmitted to the ground portion681may be provided to the conductive layer700via the coupling portion800having conductivity. For example, the conductive layer700may be electrically connected to the ground portion681and may thus be grounded. As the conductive layer700is grounded, noise generated by the interference between the driver chip TIC and the conductive layer700can be eliminated.

The coupling portion800may contact the ground portion681but might not contact the first sensing pattern671. For example, the coupling portion800might not overlap the first sensing pattern671. In a plan view, the coupling portion800may be spaced apart from the first sensing pattern671and at least partially surrounded by the first sensing pattern671.

The pressure sensor900may detect the intensity (e.g., strength or force) of a touch input applied to the display device1. For example, the pressure sensor900may detect a touch input applied to a surface of the window structure100. As an additional example, the pressure sensor900may be of a capacitive type that may sense the intensity of a touch input by detecting a change in capacitance between upper and lower electrodes when the touch input is applied. As another example, the pressure sensor900may be of a resistive type that may sense the intensity of a touch input by detecting a change in resistance between electrodes when the touch input is applied. For ease of description, a case where the pressure sensor900is of a capacitive type will be described as an example, and the specific operation of the pressure sensor900will be described later with reference toFIGS. 10 and 11.

The pressure sensor900may have the connection terminal901, and the connection terminal901may be connected to the sensor connection portion685of the second substrate portion650. The pressure sensor900may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC via the sensor connection portion685, the sensor connection line695, and the driver chip connection portion683.

A first bonding layer AD1for bonding the pressure sensor900and the second substrate portion650may be located between the pressure sensor900and the second substrate portion650, and a second bonding layer AD2for bonding the pressure sensor900and the conductive layer700may be located between the pressure sensor900and the conductive layer700. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, each of the first bonding layer AD1and the second bonding layer AD2may be made of a double-sided adhesive tape. In addition, each of the first bonding layer AD1and the second bonding layer AD2may be made of an adhesive.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure sensor900might not overlap the second sensing pattern673. In a plan view, the pressure sensor900may be spaced apart from the second sensing pattern673and at least partially surrounded by the second sensing pattern673.

The second FPCB400may be connected to the touch sensing unit300. The second FPCB400may transmit signals for controlling the touch sensing unit300to the touch sensing unit300. For example, the transmitted signals may be received from an external device.

The second FPCB400may include a third substrate portion410, a fourth substrate portion430, and the connection portion451.

The third substrate portion410may be connected to a portion of the touch sensing unit300which overlaps the non-display area NDA. For example, the third substrate portion410may overlap the non-display area NDA. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the third substrate portion410may be connected to a pad portion or the like of the touch sensing unit300. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the third substrate portion410may be located on the same side as the first substrate portion610of, for example, the display panel500.

The fourth substrate portion430is a portion extending from the third substrate portion410and is not disposed on the touch sensing unit300. The fourth substrate portion430may be bent toward a lower surface of the conductive layer700. For example, the fourth substrate portion430may be bent around an edge of the display panel500.

The fourth substrate portion430may have the connection portion451. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the connection portion451may be connected to the first connection portion661of the first FPCB600. Accordingly, the touch sensing unit300may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC mounted on the driver chip connection portion683via the second FPCB400and the first FPCB600.

The display panel500will now be described in more detail with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 6is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion Q1ofFIG. 4, more specifically, an enlarged cross-sectional view of the display panel500ofFIG. 4according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 6, the display panel500includes a base substrate510, a first electrode520, a pixel defining layer530, a light emitting layer540, a second electrode550, and an encapsulation layer570.

The base substrate510may be located on the conductive layer700. The base substrate510may be an insulating substrate. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the base substrate510may include a polymer material having flexibility. Here, the polymer material may be polyethersulphone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylenenaphthalate (PEN), polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyphenylenesulfide (PPS), polyallylate, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulosetriacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), and/or a combination of these materials.

The first electrode520may be located on the base substrate510. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode520may be an anode.

Although not illustrated in the drawing, a plurality of elements may further be disposed between the base substrate510and the first electrode520. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elements may include a buffer layer, a plurality of conductive wirings, an insulating layer, and a plurality of thin-film transistors. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a stacked structure or a single-layered structure may be disposed between the base substrate510and the first electrode520.

The pixel defining layer530may be located on the first electrode520. For example, the pixel defining layer530may be disposed on a portion of the first electrode520and on the base substrate510. The pixel defining layer530includes an opening that exposes at least a portion of the first electrode520.

The light emitting layer540may be located on the first electrode520. For example, the light emitting layer540may be disposed on the exposed portion of the first electrode520.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting layer540may emit one of red light, green light, or blue light. The wavelength of the red light may be about 620 nm to about 750 nm, and the wavelength of the green light may be about 495 nm to about 570 nm. In addition, the wavelength of the blue light may be about 450 nm to about 495 nm.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting layer540may emit white light. When emitting white light, the light emitting layer540may have a stacked structure of a red light emitting layer, a green light emitting layer, and a blue light emitting layer. In addition, the light emitting layer540may further include color filters for displaying red, green, and blue.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting layer540may be an organic light emitting layer. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting layer540may also be a quantum dot light emitting layer or an inorganic light emitting layer.

The second electrode550may be disposed on the light emitting layer540and the pixel defining layer530. For example, the second electrode550may be formed on the entire surface of the light emitting layer540and the pixel defining layer530in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second electrode550may be a cathode.

The first electrode520, the second electrode550, and the light emitting layer540may constitute each of a plurality of self-luminous elements EL.

The encapsulation layer570may be located on the self-luminous elements EL. The encapsulation layer570may seal the self-luminous elements EL and may prevent moisture or the like from entering the self-luminous elements EL from the outside.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the encapsulation layer570may be formed by thin-film encapsulation and may include one or more organic layers and/or one or more inorganic layers. For example, the encapsulation layer570may include a first inorganic layer571located on the second electrode550, an organic layer572located on the first inorganic layer571, and a second inorganic layer573located on the organic layer572. However, the present invention is not limited to the number of organic and inorganic layers in the encapsulation layer570.

The first inorganic layer571may be disposed on the self-luminous elements EL and may prevent the introduction of moisture, oxygen, and the like into the self-luminous elements EL. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first inorganic layer571includes an inorganic material. The inorganic material may include any one or more of silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), and/or silicon oxynitride (SiONx).

The organic layer572may be disposed on the first inorganic layer571. The organic layer572may provide a substantially flat surface. The organic layer572includes an organic material, and the organic material may include any one of epoxy, acrylate, and; or urethane acrylate.

The second inorganic layer573may be disposed on the organic layer572. The second inorganic layer573may prevent the introduction of moisture, oxygen, and the like into the self-luminous elements EL and may be made of substantially the same or similar material as the first inorganic layer571. The second inorganic layer573may cover the organic layer572. For example, the second inorganic layer573may completely overlap the organic layer572. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second inorganic layer573and the first inorganic layer571may contact each other in the non-display area NDA to form an inorganic-inorganic junction. The inorganic-inorganic junction can prevent moisture and the like from entering the display device1from outside the display device1.

InFIG. 6, each of the first inorganic layer571, the organic layer572, and the second inorganic layer573is illustrated as a single layer. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. For example, at least one of the first inorganic layer571, the organic layer572, and the second inorganic layer573may have a multilayer structure.

The touch sensing unit300may be disposed on the encapsulation layer570.

The touch sensing unit300will now be described in more detail with reference toFIGS. 7 through 9.

FIG. 7is a plan view of the touch sensing unit300of the display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 8is a partial enlarged view of the touch sensing unit300illustrated inFIG. 7according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 9is a cross-sectional view of the touch sensing unit300, taken along line D-D′ ofFIG. 8according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 7, the touch sensing unit300is disposed on the encapsulation layer570. In a plan view, the touch sensing unit300may include a sensing area SA capable of sensing a touch and a non-sensing area NSA outside the sensing area SA that might not sense a touch. The sensing area SA may be an area overlapping the display area DA of the display panel500, and a first part31of the touch sensing unit300may be located in the sensing area SA. The non-sensing area NSA may be an area that does not sense a touch and overlaps the non-display area NDA of the display panel500. A second part33of the touch sensing unit300may be located in the non-sensing area NSA.

The first part31of the touch sensing unit300includes a plurality of touch electrodes, and the touch electrodes include a plurality of first touch electrodes311and a plurality of second touch electrodes313. The first touch electrodes311and the second touch electrodes313are separated from each other.

The first touch electrodes311and the second touch electrodes313may be alternately arranged in the sensing area SA so as not to substantially overlap each other. The first touch electrodes311and the second touch electrodes313may be alternately arranged along a column direction and a row direction.

The first touch electrodes311and the second touch electrodes313may be located on the same layer or on different layers. Each of the first touch electrodes311and the second touch electrodes313may have a quadrilateral or rhombus shape. However, each of the first and second touch electrodes311and313is not limited to the above shapes and can have various shapes; for example, the first and second touch electrodes311and313can have a protrusion for increasing the sensitivity of the touch sensing unit300.

The first touch electrodes311located in each row may be connected to each other by a first connection portion315, and the second touch electrodes313located in each column may be connected to each other by a second connection portion317. For example, the first touch electrodes311may be connected to each other in a row direction through the first connection portion315, and the second touch electrodes313may be connected to each other in a column direction, intersecting the row direction, through the second connection portion317.

Referring further toFIGS. 8 and 9, the first connection portion315connecting neighboring first touch electrodes311may be disposed on the same layer as the first touch electrodes311and may be made of the same material as the first touch electrodes311. For example, the first touch electrodes311and the first connection portion315may be integrated with each other and may be simultaneously patterned.

The second connection portion317connecting neighboring second touch electrodes313may be located on a different layer from the second touch electrodes313. For example, the second touch electrodes313and the second connection portion317may be separately patterned. For example, the second touch electrodes313may be separated from the second connection portion317, and the second touch electrodes313may be indirectly connected to the second connection portion317. The second touch electrodes313and the second connection portion317are connected to each other by being in direct contact with each other.

An insulating layer319is located between the first connection portion315and the second connection portion317to insulate the first connection portion315and the second connection portion317from each other. As illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9, the insulating layer319may include an insulating material and have a rectangular shape. The insulating layer319may be disposed at each intersection of the first connection portion315and the second connection portion317. The insulating layer319may be separated from other insulating layers319. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the insulating layer319may be formed over the entire surface of the first touch electrode311and the second touch electrode313, and the insulating layer319which is located on a portion of each of the second touch electrodes313neighboring each other in the column direction may be removed so that the second connection317may connect the second touch electrodes313.

Referring again toFIG. 7, the second part33of the touch sensing unit300may include a first touch signal line331and a second touch signal line333.

The first touch electrodes311connected to each other in each row may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC by the first touch signal line331, and the second touch electrodes313connected to each other in each column may be electrically connected to the driver chip TIC by the second touch signal line333. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, ends of the first touch signal line331and the second touch signal line333may form a pad portion335on the encapsulation layer570or the display panel500. The pad portion335may be connected to the first substrate portion610of the first FPCB600.

A first touch electrode311and a second touch electrode313neighboring each other may form a capacitance, and any one of the first touch electrode311and the second touch electrode313may output a change in mutual capacitance caused by an external object or a touch input as a sensing signal.

The pressure sensor900will now be described in more detail with reference toFIGS. 10 and 11.

FIG. 10is a cross-sectional view of the pressure sensor900of the display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 11is a view for explaining the operation of the pressure sensor900ofFIG. 10according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring toFIGS. 10 and 11, the pressure sensor900may include first electrodes910and a second electrode930facing each other and an elastic layer950interposed between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930.

The first electrodes910and the second electrode930may face each other and may be spaced apart from each other. The first electrodes910and the second electrode930may overlap each other. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first electrodes910and the second electrode930might not overlap each other and extend in the same direction. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a reference voltage may be provided to at least one of the first and second electrodes910and930, and a driving voltage may be provided to the other electrode of the first and second electrodes910and930. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the reference voltage may be a ground voltage.

The elastic layer950is located between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930. The elastic layer950may have elasticity. For example, the elastic layer950may be compressed when pressure is applied and return to its original shape when the applied pressure is removed. For example, when a touch input occurs, the elastic layer950may be compressed, thereby reducing the distance between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930. In addition, when the touch input is released, the elastic layer950may return to its original shape.

The first electrodes910, the second electrode930, and the elastic layer950may form a capacitor with a capacitance. For example, when a touch input is not applied, a first capacitance C1may be formed between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930. On the other hand, when a touch input is applied, the elastic layer950may be compressed. Accordingly, the distance between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930may be reduced compared with when the touch input is not applied. If all conditions are the same, the capacitance between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930is inversely proportional to the distance between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930. Therefore, a second capacitance C2greater than the first capacitance C1may be formed between the first electrodes910and the second electrode930. The driver chip TIC may obtain the position of a touch input and the intensity of the touch input based on the capacitance generated in the pressure sensor900. For example, the driver chip TIC may detect the intensity of a touch input by comparing a predetermined reference value with the magnitude of capacitance obtained from the pressure sensor900. For example, in a case where the reference value is substantially equal to the first capacitance C1, the first capacitance C1obtained by the driver chip TIC when no touch input occurs is substantially equal to the reference value. Therefore, the driver chip TIC may determine that no touch has occurred. When a touch input occurs, the second chip capacitance C2obtained by the driver chip TIC is greater than the reference value. Therefore, the driver chip TIC may determine that a touch has occurred and may detect the intensity of the touch based on the difference between the reference value and the second capacitance C2.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pressure sensor900may further include a first support member970and a second support member990which support the first electrodes910, the second electrode930and the elastic layer950. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first support member970may be disposed on the first electrode910, and the second support member990may be disposed on the second electrode930.

The lift detection operation of the display device1will now be described.

FIG. 12is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the display device1according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIGS. 13 through 15are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion Q2ofFIG. 4, illustrating a lift detection operation using the first sensing pattern671according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIGS. 16 through 18are enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion Q3ofFIG. 5, illustrating a lift detection operation using the second sensing pattern673according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIG. 12, the display device1may obtain a capacitance between a sensing pattern and a conductive layer (operation S1) and determine whether lifting has occurred based on the obtained capacitance (operation S3). When it is determined that lifting has occurred, a predetermined operation may be further performed (operation S5). When it is determined that lifting has not occurred, the operation of the display device1may restart.

Referring further toFIGS. 13 through 15, an inspection signal (a voltage or the like) is provided from the driver chip TIC to the first sensing pattern671via the first connection line691. Therefore, a capacitance may be formed between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700. If other conditions are substantially the same, the magnitude of the capacitance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700is inversely proportional to the distance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700. The magnitude of the capacitance changes as the distance changes.

Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 13, when the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700are spaced apart from each other by a first distance Dt1since the coupling portion800has not been lifted, a first capacitance Ct1is formed between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700.

In addition, when a part of the coupling portion800is separated from the conductive layer700as illustrated inFIG. 14, the distance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700may increase from the first distance Dt1to a second distance Dt2. Accordingly, a second capacitance Ct2which is smaller in magnitude than the first capacitance Ct1may be formed between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700.

In addition, when a part of the coupling portion800is separated from the second substrate portion650as illustrated inFIG. 15, the distance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700may increase from the first distance Dt1to a third distance Dt3. Accordingly, a third capacitance Ct3which is smaller in magnitude than the first capacitance Ct1may be formed between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700.

Since the first sensing pattern671is electrically connected to the driver chip TIC as described above, the driver chip TIC may obtain a capacitance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700from the first sensing pattern671and detect the lifting of the coupling portion800from either, for example, the conductive layer700or the second substrate portion650based on the obtained capacitance. For example, the driver chip TIC may store a reference value for determining whether the coupling portion800has been lifted, compare the stored reference value with the magnitude of the obtained capacitance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700, and determine that the coupling portion800has been lifted when the difference between the reference value and the obtained capacitance between the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700exceeds a predetermined range. For example, operations S1and S3described above inFIG. 12may be performed by the driver chip TIC.

When the coupling portion800is lifted, a ground voltage applied to the ground portion681may not be transmitted to the conductive layer700. Accordingly, noise may be generated due to the interference between the conductive layer700and the driver chip TIC. The noise can cause a reduction in touch sensitivity.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since the lifting of the coupling portion800can be detected using the first sensing pattern671and the conductive layer700, it is possible to reduce a defect rate in the process of manufacturing the display device1. In addition, maintenance of the display device1may be more cost efficient.

Referring further toFIGS. 16 through 18, an inspection signal (a voltage or the like) is provided from the driver chip TIC to the second sensing pattern673via the second connection line693. Therefore, a capacitance may be formed between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700. The magnitude of the capacitance is inversely proportional to the distance between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700. The magnitude of the capacitance changes as the distance changes.

Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 16, when the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700are spaced apart from each other by a first distance Df1since the pressure sensor900has not been lifted from, for example, the second substrate portion650, a first capacitance Cf1is formed between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700.

In addition, when the pressure sensor900is lifted because, for example, the second bonding layer AD2is separated from the conductive layer700as illustrated inFIG. 17, the distance between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700may increase from the first distance Df1to a second distance Df2. Accordingly, a second capacitance Cf2which is smaller in magnitude than the first capacitance Cf1may be formed between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700.

In addition, when the pressure sensor900is lifted because, for example, the first bonding layer AD1is separated from the second substrate portion650as illustrated inFIG. 18, the distance between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700may increase from the first distance Df1to a third distance Df3. Accordingly, a third capacitance Cf3which is smaller in magnitude than the first capacitance Cf1may be formed between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700.

Since the second sensing pattern673is electrically connected to the driver chip TIC as described above, the driver chip TIC may obtain a capacitance between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700from the second sensing pattern673and detect the lifting of the pressure sensor900based on the obtained capacitance. For example, the driver chip TIC may store a reference value, compare the capacitance between the second sensing pattern673and the conductive layer700with the reference value, and determine whether the pressure sensor900has been lifted based on the comparison result.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the reference value stored in the driver chip TIC and used to determine whether the coupling portion800has been lifted may be different from the reference value stored in the driver chip TIC and used to determine whether the pressure sensor900has been lifted. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the reference value for determining whether the coupling portion800may be substantially similar to the reference value for determining whether the pressure sensor900has been lifted.

When detecting/determining that at least one of the coupling portion800and the pressure sensor900has been lifted, the driver chip TIC may transmit a result signal to the main circuit board MP. In response to the result signal received from the driver chip TIC, the main circuit board MP may control the display device1to perform a predetermined operation. For example, operation S5ofFIG. 12may be performed by the main circuit board MP.

In an example, the predetermined operation may be a warning message displayed on the display device1or a power-off operation. For example, when receiving from the driver chip TIC a result signal indicating that lifting has occurred, the main circuit board MP may control the display panel500or the panel driver chip PIC to display a warning message on the display panel500. In addition, when receiving from the driver chip TIC a result signal indicating that lifting has occurred, the main circuit board MP may terminate the power supplied to the display panel500or may turn off the display device1. However, this is only an example, and the predetermined operation may be various operations. For example, the predetermined operation could be the display panel500flashing on and off.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention described above, whether the coupling portion800has been lifted can be detected using the first sensing pattern671, and whether the pressure sensor900has been lifted can be detected using the second sensing pattern673. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a defect rate in the process of manufacturing the display device1. In addition, it may be useful in terms of maintenance of the display device1.

FIG. 19is a rear view of a display device2according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 20is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2-A2′ ofFIG. 19according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 21is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ ofFIG. 19according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIGS. 19 through 21, the display device2according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is substantially the same as the display device1described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 18, except that it includes a first FPCB600a. In addition, the first FPCB600ais substantially the same or similar to the first FPCB600of the display device1, except that a second substrate portion650aincludes a first sensing pattern671a. Therefore, any redundant description will be omitted, and the following description will focus mainly on differences.

The first sensing pattern671aof the second substrate portion650amay include a plurality of sub-sensing patterns (6711through6714) spaced apart from each other and located adjacent to a coupling portion800. For example, the first sensing pattern671amay include a first sub-sensing pattern6711, a second sub-sensing pattern6712, a third sub-sensing pattern6713, and a fourth sub-sensing pattern6714.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first sub-sensing pattern6711, the second sub-sensing pattern6712, the third sub-sensing pattern6713, and the fourth sub-sensing pattern6714may each correspond to a corner of the coupling portion800.

The first sub-sensing pattern6711, the second sub-sensing pattern6712, the third sub-sensing pattern6713and the fourth sub-sensing pattern6714may each be electrically connected to a driver chip TIC by separate lines. For example, the first sub-sensing pattern6711may be connected to a driver chip connection portion683by a first sub-connection line6911, and the second sub-sensing pattern6712may be connected to the driver chip connection portion683by a second sub-connection line6912separated from the first sub-connection line6911. The third sub-sensing pattern6713and the fourth sub-sensing pattern6714may each be connected to the driver chip connection portion683by separate sub-connection lines. The driver chip TIC may independently obtain a capacitance from each of the first sub-sensing pattern6711, the second sub-sensing pattern6712, the third sub-sensing pattern6713and the fourth sub-sensing pattern6714and may determine which part of the coupling portion800has been lifted or peeled based on the obtained capacitance.

However, the present invention is not limited to the above description, and the number of sub-sensing patterns included in the first sensing pattern671aand the arrangement of the sub-sensing patterns may be variously changed.

FIG. 22is a rear view of a display device3according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 23is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3-A3′ ofFIG. 22according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 24is a cross-sectional view taken along line B3-B3′ ofFIG. 23according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring toFIGS. 22 through 24, the display device3according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is substantially the same as the display device1described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 18, except that it includes a first FPCB600b. In addition, the first FPCB600bis substantially the same or similar to the first FPCB600of the display device1, except that a second substrate portion650bincludes a second sensing pattern673a. Therefore, any redundant description may be omitted, and the following description may focus mainly on differences.

The second sensing pattern673aof the second substrate portion650bmay include a plurality of sub-sensing patterns (6731,6732,6733and6734) spaced apart from each other and located adjacent to a pressure sensor900. For example, the second sensing pattern673amay include a fifth sub-sensing pattern6731, a sixth sub-sensing pattern6732, a seventh sub-sensing pattern6733, and an eighth sub-sensing pattern6734.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fifth sub-sensing pattern6731, the sixth sub-sensing pattern6732, the seventh sub-sensing pattern6733, and the eighth sub-sensing pattern6734may each correspond to a corner of the pressure sensor900

The fifth sub-sensing pattern6731, the sixth sub-sensing pattern6732, the seventh sub-sensing pattern6733and the eighth sub-sensing pattern6734may each be electrically connected to a driver chip TIC by separate lines. For example, the fifth sub-sensing pattern6731may be connected to a driver chip connection portion683by a third sub-connection line6931, and the sixth sub-sensing pattern6732may be connected to the driver chip connection portion683by a fourth sub-connection line6932separated from the third sub-connection line6931. The seventh sub-sensing pattern6733and the eighth sub-sensing pattern6734may each be connected to the driver chip connection portion683by separate sub-connection lines. The driver chip TIC may independently obtain a capacitance from each of the fifth sub-sensing pattern6731, the sixth sub-sensing pattern6732, the seventh sub-sensing pattern6733and the eighth sub-sensing pattern6734and may determine which part of the pressure sensor900has been lifted or peeled based on the obtained capacitance.

However, the present invention is not limited to the above description, and the number of sub-sensing patterns included in the second sensing pattern673aand the arrangement of the sub-sensing patterns may be variously changed.

FIG. 25is a rear view of a display device4according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring toFIG. 25, the display device4according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is substantially the same as the display device1described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 18, except that it includes a first FPCB600c. In addition, the first FPCB600cis substantially the same or similar to the first FPCB600of the display device1, except that a second substrate portion650cincludes a first sensing pattern671aand a second sensing pattern673a. The first sensing pattern671ais the same as that described above with reference toFIGS. 19 through 21, and a cross-section along line A4-A4′ may be substantially the same as the structure illustrated inFIG. 20. The second sensing pattern673ais the same as that described above with reference toFIGS. 22 through 24, and a cross-section along B4-B4′ may be substantially the same as the structure illustrated inFIG. 24. Therefore, a detailed description may be omitted.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a lifting of an element of a display device can be easily detected. Therefore, a defect rate of the display device can be reduced in the manufacturing process, and the maintenance of the display device can be easily performed in the process of using the display device.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first sensing pattern, a coupling portion, a second sensing pattern, and a pressure sensor are all provided. However, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, of the first sensing pattern, the coupling portion, the second sensing pattern and the pressure sensor, the first sensing pattern or the second sensing pattern may be omitted. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing pattern and the coupling portion may be omitted, or the second sensing pattern and the pressure sensor may be omitted.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a display device capable of detecting lifting or separation of an FPCB.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an FPCB including a sensing pattern for detecting lifting or separation.