ELECTRONIC DEVICE

An electronic device includes a base layer, a plurality of first electrodes on the base layer, a pixel definition layer on the first electrodes and including a plurality of openings that expose a portion of the first electrodes,, a plurality of light emitting layers on the first electrodes, a plurality of patterns on the pixel definition layer, a second electrode on the light emitting layers, and an encapsulation layer on the patterns and the second electrode. The patterns are disposed between the light emitting layers when viewed in a plane, and each of the patterns has a width from about 3 micrometers to about 4 micrometers.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0176992, filed on Dec. 10, 2021, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device capable of reducing a separation phenomenon between a light emitting element layer and an encapsulation layer.

2. Description of the Related Art

Electronic devices, such as televisions, monitors, smart phones, and tablet computers, that provide images to a user include a display panel displaying the images. Examples of such display panels may include a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel, an electrowetting display panel, and an electrophoretic display panel.

Because an organic light emitting display panel does not require a separate light source, the organic light emitting display panel has an advantage of being able to be used as a curved or flexible electronic device.

A light emitting element layer of the organic light emitting display panel is particularly sensitive to moisture and oxygen. The organic light emitting display panel includes an encapsulation layer with one or more layers on the organic light emitting element to prevent or reduce moisture permeation and oxygen permeation.

However, because the encapsulation layer has a relatively low adhesive strength compared with other elements of the organic light emitting display panel, the encapsulation layer is likely to be separated from other elements when being bent.

SUMMARY

Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward an electronic device capable of reducing a separation phenomenon between a light emitting element layer and an encapsulation layer.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an electronic device including a base layer, a plurality of first electrodes disposed on the base layer, a pixel definition layer disposed on the first electrodes and provided with a plurality of openings defined therethrough to expose a portion of the first electrodes, respectively, a plurality of light emitting layers respectively disposed on the first electrodes, a plurality of patterns disposed on the pixel definition layer, a second electrode disposed on the light emitting layers, and an encapsulation layer disposed on the patterns and the second electrode. The patterns are disposed between the light emitting layers when viewed in a plane.

Each of the patterns has a width from about 3 micrometers to about 4 micrometers.

A gap between the patterns is within a range from about 1.5 micrometers to about 4.5 micrometers, and a thickness of each of the patterns is within a range from about 1 micrometer to about 2 micrometers.

The base layer includes a first area whose shape varies and a second area defined adjacent to the first area, and the patterns overlap the first area and do not overlap the second area when viewed in the plane.

The base layer includes a first area folded and unfolded with respect to a folding axis extending in a first direction and a second area defined adjacent to the first area, each of the patterns extends in a first cross direction crossing the first direction, and the patterns are spaced apart from each other in a second cross direction crossing the first cross direction.

The encapsulation layer covers the second electrode and the patterns.

The second electrode includes a first electrode portion disposed on an upper surface of each of the patterns and a second electrode portion spaced apart from the first electrode portion and disposed on the light emitting layers.

Each of the patterns has a reverse taper shape.

The second electrode includes a first electrode portion and a plurality of second electrode portions, the first electrode portion is disposed on the light emitting layer, the first electrode portion is provided with a plurality of openings that does not overlap the patterns when viewed in the plane, and the second electrode portions respectively overlap the openings when viewed in the plane.

The electronic device further includes a spacer disposed between the patterns and the light emitting layers when viewed in the plane. The spacer includes a first portion and a second portion, and each of the first portion and the second portion has a width from about 9 micrometers to about 13 micrometers.

A gap between the first portion and the second portion is within a range from about 1.5 micrometers to about 4.5 micrometers.

Each of the first portion and the second portion has a thickness from about 2.3 micrometers to about 3.3 micrometers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an electronic device including a base layer including a folding area folded or unfolded with respect to a folding axis extending in a first direction and a plurality of non-folding areas spaced apart from each other with the folding area interposed there between, a circuit layer disposed on the base layer and including a transistor and an insulating layer, a light emitting element layer disposed on the circuit layer and including a light emitting element including a first electrode, a light emitting layer, and a second electrode, a pixel definition layer, and a plurality of patterns disposed on the pixel definition layer, and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light emitting element layer. The patterns overlap the folding area when viewed in a plane, and each of the patterns has a thickness from about 1 micrometer to about 2 micrometers.

Each of the patterns has a width from about 3 micrometers to about 4 micrometers when viewed in the plane.

A gap between the patterns is within a range from about 1.5 micrometers to about 4.5 micrometers.

The patterns do not overlap the non-folding areas when viewed in the plane.

Each of the patterns extends in a first cross direction crossing the first direction, and the patterns are spaced apart from each other in a second cross direction crossing the first cross direction.

The encapsulation layer covers the second electrode and the patterns.

Each of the patterns includes a side surface spaced apart from the second electrode.

Each of the patterns has a reverse taper shape.

According to the above, portions of the second electrode are disconnected due to the patterns, and thus, a resistance of the second electrode increases. A current leakage through the second electrode is prevented or reduced. Accordingly, a reliability of the electronic device is improved.

According to the above, the patterns are designed to have a shape suitable to prevent or reduce a separation phenomenon. The separation phenomenon of the encapsulation layer is prevented or reduced due to the width and the thickness of each of the patterns, and the distance between the patterns. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device is improved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Like numerals refer to like elements throughout, and duplicative descriptions thereof may not be provided. In the drawings, the thickness, ratio, and dimension of components are exaggerated for effective description of the technical content (e.g., amount). As used herein, the term “and/or” may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe one or more suitable elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. Thus, a first element discussed below could be termed a second element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms, “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper” and/or the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another elements or features as shown in the drawings.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to accompanying drawings.

FIG.1Ais a perspective view showing an electronic device1000in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.1Bis a perspective view showing the electronic device1000shown inFIG.1Ain the midst of an in-folding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.1A and1B, the electronic device1000may be a device that is activated in response to an electrical signal. The electronic device1000may include one or more suitable embodiments. For example, the electronic device1000may include a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a computer, a smart television, and/or the like. In the present embodiment, a foldable smartphone will be described as a representative example of the electronic device1000.

The electronic device1000may display an image IM through a first display surface FS, which is substantially parallel to each of a first direction DR1and a second direction DR2, toward a third direction DR3 (e.g., display the image IM in a plan view). The display surface FS through which the image IM is displayed may correspond to a front surface of the electronic device1000. The image IM may include a still image as well as a video.FIG.1Ashows an internet search box and a clock widget as a representative example of the image IM.

In the present embodiment, front (or upper) and rear (or lower) surfaces of each member of the electronic device1000may be defined with respect to a direction in which the image IM is displayed. The front and rear surfaces may be opposite to each other in the third direction DR3, and a line normal (e.g., perpendicular) to a direction of each of the front and rear surfaces may be substantially parallel to the third direction DR3.

A separation distance in the third direction DR3 between the front surface and the rear surface may correspond to a thickness or a height of the electronic device1000in the third direction DR3. In some embodiments, directions indicated by the first, second, and third directions DR1, DR2, and DR3 are relative to each other and may be changed to other directions.

The electronic device1000may sense an external input applied thereto from the outside. The external input may include inputs of one or more suitable forms provided from the outside of the electronic device1000. As an example, the external input may include external inputs applied when in close proximity to or approaching close to the electronic device1000at a set or predetermined distance (e.g., a hovering input) as well as a touch input by a user’s body (e.g., a hand of a user). In some embodiments, the external input may include one or more suitable forms, such as force, pressure, temperature, or light.

The electronic device1000according to the present embodiment may include the first display surface FS and a second display surface RS. The first display surface FS may include a first active area F-AA and a first peripheral area F-NAA.

The first active area F-AA may be activated in response to the electrical signal. The image IM may be displayed through the first active area F-AA, and one or more suitable external inputs may be sensed through the first active area F-AA. The first peripheral area F-NAA may be defined as being adjacent to the first active area F-AA. The first peripheral area F-NAA may have a set or predetermined color. The first peripheral area F-NAA may be around (e.g., may surround) the first active area F-AA. Accordingly, the first active area F-AA may have a shape that is substantially defined by the first peripheral area F-NAA, however, this is merely an example. The first peripheral area F-NAA may be defined as being adjacent to only one side of the first active area F-AA or may not be provided. The electronic device1000according to an embodiment may include active areas of one or more suitable shapes and should not be particularly limited.

The second display surface RS may be opposite to at least a portion of the first display surface FS. For example, the second display surface RS may be defined as a portion of the rear surface of the electronic device1000. The second display surface RS may include an electronic module area EMA.

Various electronic modules may be disposed in the electronic module area EMA. For example, the electronic module may include at least one of a camera, a speaker, an optical sensor, or a thermal sensor. The electronic module area EMA may sense an external subject through the first and second display surfaces FS and RS. The electronic module may include a plurality of suitable components, however, it should not be limited to a particular embodiment.

The electronic device1000may be inwardly or outwardly folded (e.g., in-folding or out-folding) about a folding axis AX1. The folding axis AX1may extend in the second direction DR2. For example, the folding axis AX1may extend along a minor axis of the electronic device1000.

A plurality of areas may be defined in the electronic device1000according to an operation type or kind of the electronic device1000. The areas may include a folding area FA1and at least one non-folding area NFA1and NFA2. The folding area FA1may be defined between two non-folding areas NFA1and NFA2.

The folding area FA1may be an area folded about the folding axis AX1and substantially forming a curvature. The folding area FA1may be flexible. The folding area FA1may overlap a first area defined in a base layer110(refer toFIG.7).

The non-folding areas NFA1and NFA2may include a first non-folding area NFA1and a second non-folding area NFA2. The first non-folding area NFA1may be disposed adjacent to one side of the folding area FA1, and the second non-folding area NFA2may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding area FA1. Each of the first and second non-folding areas NFA1and NFA2may overlap a second area defined in the base layer110.

In the present embodiment, the electronic device1000may include one folding area FA1defined therein, however, the present disclosure should not be limited thereto or thereby. According to various embodiments, the electronic device1000may include a plurality of folding areas defined therein.

In a non-folded state of the electronic device1000, the first display surface FS may be viewed by the user, and in an in-folded state, the second display surface RS may be viewed by the user.

FIG.2Ais a perspective view showing an electronic device1000-1in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.2Bis a perspective view showing the electronic device1000-1shown inFIG.2Ain the midst of an in-folding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.2Cis a plan view showing the electronic device1000-1shown inFIG.2Ain an in-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.2Dis a perspective view showing the electronic device1000-1in the midst of an out-folding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2A, the electronic device1000-1may include at least one folding area FA2 and a plurality of non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 extending from the folding area FA2. The non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 may be spaced apart from each other with the folding area FA2 interposed therebetween.

Referring toFIG.2B, the electronic device1000-1may include a folding axis AX2 that extends in the second direction DR2on a first display surface FS. For example, the folding axis AX2 may extend along a major axis of the electronic device1000-1. The folding axis AX1shown inFIGS.1A and1Bmay extend in a minor axis of the electronic device1000, and the folding axis AX2 shown inFIGS.2A to2Dmay extend in a major axis of the electronic device1000-1.

According to an embodiment, the non-folding areas NFA3 and NFA4 may be disposed adjacent to the folding area FA2 with the folding area FA2 interposed therebetween. For example, a first non-folding area NFA3 may be disposed adjacent to one side of the folding area FA2, and a second non-folding area NFA4 may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the folding area FA2.

The electronic device1000-1may be folded about the folding axis AX2 to be in an in-folded state where an area of the first display surface FS, which overlaps the first non-folding area NFA3, faces the other area of the first display surface FS, which overlaps the second non-folding area NFA4.

Referring toFIG.2C, a second display surface RS may be viewed by a user during the in-folded state of the electronic device1000-1. In this case, the second display surface RS may include a second active area R-AA through which the image is displayed and a second peripheral area R-NAA adjacent to the second active area R-AA. The second active area R-AA may be activated in response to an electrical signal. Additionally, the second active area R-AA may be an area through which the image is displayed and one or more suitable external inputs are sensed. The second peripheral area R-NAA may have a set or predetermined color. The second peripheral area R-NAA may be around (e.g., may surround) the second active area R-AA. In some embodiments, although not shown in drawings, the second display surface RS may further include an electronic module area in which an electronic module including one or more suitable components is disposed, but the second display surface RS should not be particularly limited.

Referring toFIG.2D, the electronic device1000-1may be folded about the folding axis AX2 to be in an out-folding state where an area of the second display surface RS, which overlaps the first non-folding area NFA3, faces the other area of the second display surface RS, which overlaps the second non-folding area NFA4.

However, the electronic device1000-1should not be limited thereto or thereby. In some embodiments, the electronic device1000-1may be folded about a plurality of folding axes such that a portion of the first display surface FS and a portion of the second display surface RS may face each other, and the number of the folding axes and the number of non-folding areas should not be particularly limited.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device1000taken along a line I-I′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.4is a cross-sectional view of a display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.3and4, the electronic device1000may include the display panel DP, a support plate300, a first cushion layer CS1, a second cushion layer CS2, a first plate400, a second plate500, and a window600and may further include one or more suitable functional layers.

The display panel DP may be a flexible panel. The display panel DP may include a display layer100and a sensor layer200. This will be described later in more detail. The display panel DP may have a thickness of about 40 µm.

The display layer100may be a light emitting type or kind display layer, however, it should not be particularly limited. For example, the display layer100may be an organic light emitting display layer, a quantum dot display layer, a micro-LED display layer, or a nano-LED display layer. A light emitting layer of the organic light emitting display layer may include an organic light emitting material. A light emitting layer of the quantum dot display layer may include a quantum dot or a quantum rod. A light emitting layer of the micro-LED display layer may include a micro-LED. A light emitting layer of the nano-LED display layer may include a nano-LED.

The display layer100may include a base layer110, a circuit layer120, a light emitting element layer130, and an encapsulation layer140.

The base layer110may provide a surface on which the circuit layer120is disposed. The base layer110may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or a polymer substrate. However, the embodiment should not be limited thereto or thereby, and according to an embodiment, the base layer110may be an inorganic layer, an organic layer, or a composite material layer.

The base layer110may have a multi-layer structure. For instance, the base layer110may include a first synthetic resin layer, a silicon oxide (SiOx) layer disposed on the first synthetic resin layer, an amorphous silicon (a-Si) layer disposed on the silicon oxide layer, and a second synthetic resin layer disposed on the amorphous silicon layer. The silicon oxide layer and the amorphous silicon layer may be referred to as a base barrier layer.

Each of the first and second synthetic resin layers may include a polyimide-based resin. In some embodiments, each of the first and second synthetic resin layers may include at least one of an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, a polyisoprene-based resin, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, or a perylene-based resin. In the present disclosure, the term “X-based resin”, as used herein, refers to the resin that includes a functional group X.

The circuit layer120may be disposed on the base layer110. The circuit layer120may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line. An insulating layer, a semiconductor layer, and a conductive layer may be formed on the base layer110by a coating or depositing process. Then, the insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be selectively patterned through several photolithography processes. Thus, the semiconductor pattern, the conductive pattern, and the signal line included in the circuit layer120may be formed.

The light emitting element layer130may be disposed on the circuit layer120. The light emitting element layer130may include a light emitting element. For example, the light emitting element layer130may include an organic light emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro-LED, or a nano-LED.

The encapsulation layer140may be disposed on the light emitting element layer130. The encapsulation layer140may protect the light emitting element layer130from moisture, oxygen, and a foreign substance such as dust particles.

The sensor layer200may be formed on the display layer100through successive processes. In this case, the sensor layer200may be disposed directly on the display layer100. In the following descriptions, the expression “the sensor layer200is disposed directly on the display layer 100” refers to that no intervening elements are present between the sensor layer200and the display layer100. For example, a separate adhesive member may not be disposed between the sensor layer200and the display layer100. In some embodiments, the sensor layer200may be coupled with the display layer100by an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be an adhesive.

An optical layer OPL may be disposed on the display panel DP. The optical layer OPL may reduce a reflectance with respect to an external light. The optical layer OPL may include a stretch-type or kind synthetic resin film. For example, the optical layer OPL may be formed by adsorbing iodine compound on a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. According to an embodiment, the optical layer OPL may include a color filter. The optical layer OPL may include a variety of layers as long as the optical layer OPL may reduce the reflectance of the external light, and it should not be particularly limited.

The optical layer OPL and the window600may be coupled to each other by an adhesive layer AD1. The adhesive layer AD1may include an optical clear adhesive (OCA), an optical clear resin (OCR), or a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). Additional adhesive layers described hereinafter may include the same material as the adhesive layer AD1. For example, the adhesive layer AD1may have a thickness of about 50 µm.

The support plate300may be disposed under the display panel DP. The support plate300may support the display panel DP. The support plate300may include a first support portion310, a second support portion320, and a folding portion330. The first support portion310and the second support portion320may be spaced apart from each other with the folding portion330interposed therebetween in the first direction DR1. In some embodiments, the support plate300may have a thickness greater than a thickness of the display panel DP. For example, the thickness of the support plate300may be about 150 µm.

When viewed in a plane, the first support portion310may overlap the second non-folding area NFA2.

When viewed in the plane (e.g., in a plan view), the second support portion320may overlap the first non-folding area NFA1.

Each of the first support portion310and the second support portion320may have an insulating property. As an example, each of the first support portion310and the second support portion320may be formed of a plastic or glass material.

The folding portion330may overlap the folding area FA1. A plurality of openings HA may be defined through the folding portion330. The openings HA may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. In some embodiments, the folding portion330may have a lattice shape when viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view). As a size of each of the openings HA varies, a shape of the support plate300in the folding area FA may be changed. In some embodiments, the openings HA may be filled with a material with high flexibility.

The shape of the folding portion330may be suitably changed due to the openings HA when the support plate300is folded. The folding portion330may be formed of the same material as that of the first support portion310and the second support portion320, however, this is one example. In other examples, the folding portion330may include a material different from that of the first support portion310and the second support portion320. For example, the folding portion330may include a single metal or alloy. Accordingly, the folding portion330may stably protect the folding area of the display panel DP when folded.

A panel protective film PFL and a lower protective film CPL may be disposed between the display panel DP and the support plate300.

The panel protective film PFL may be disposed under the display panel DP. The panel protective film PFL may protect a lower portion of the display panel DP. The panel protective film PFL may include a flexible plastic material. For example, the panel protective film PFL may include polyethylene terephthalate. In some embodiments, the panel protective film PFL may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the display panel DP. For example, the panel protective film PFL may have a thickness of about 68 µm.

The lower protective film CPL may be disposed under the panel protective film PFL. The lower protective film CPL may have a set or predetermined color. The lower protective film CPL may protect a rear surface of the display panel DP and may prevent or reduce the rear surface of the display panel DP from being viewed due to the light. The lower protective film CPL may include a material having high light absorption.

In some embodiments, the lower protective film CPL may be provided with a set or predetermined recessed portion CPL_G formed therein to overlap the folding area FA. Due to the recessed portion CPL_G, a thickness of the lower protective film CPL in the folding area FA may be reduced, and thus, a folding stress may be reduced. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer may be added to the recessed portion CPL_G, which may improve a coupling force between the lower protective film CPL and the support plate300.

The first plate400may be disposed under the support plate300. The first plate400may support the display panel DP. When viewed in a plane, the first plate400may overlap the first non-folding area NFA1.

The first plate400and the second plate500may face each other. The first plate400and the second plate500may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. When viewed in a plane, the first plate400and the second plate500may not overlap each other.

The first plate400may have a modulus of elasticity that is higher than that of the support plate300. Accordingly, the first plate400may stably protect the display panel DP from external impacts. For example, the first plate400may include an aluminum alloy or a carbon fiber reinforcement plastic.

The first cushion layer CS1and an insulating layer TP may be disposed under the first plate400. When viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), the first cushion layer CS1may overlap the first plate400.

The first cushion layer CS1may absorb the external impacts to protect the display panel DP. The first cushion layer CS1may include a foam sheet with a certain elasticity. For example, the first cushion layer CS1may include sponge or polyurethane.

The insulating layer TP may be disposed under the first cushion layer CS1. The insulating layer TP may include an insulating film. The insulating layer TP may prevent or reduce static electricity from inflowing.

The second plate500may be disposed under the support plate300. The second plate500may support the display panel DP. When viewed in a plane, the second plate500may overlap the second non-folding area NFA2.

The second plate500may have a modulus of elasticity that is higher than that of the support plate300. Accordingly, the second plate500may stably protect the display panel DP from external impacts. For example, the second plate500may include an aluminum alloy or a carbon fiber reinforcement plastic.

The second cushion layer CS2and the insulating layer TP may be disposed under the second plate500. When viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), the second cushion layer CS2may overlap the second non-folding area NFA2.

The second cushion layer CS2may absorb the external impacts to protect the display panel DP. The second cushion layer CS2may include a foam sheet with a certain, set, or suitable elasticity. For example, the second cushion layer CS2may include sponge or polyurethane.

The insulating layer TP may be disposed under the second cushion layer CS2. The insulating layer TP may include an insulating film. The insulating layer TP may prevent or reduce static electricity from inflowing.

The window600may be disposed on the display panel DP. The window600may provide an area that overlaps an active area of the display panel DP and is optically transparent. The window600may provide the first display surface FS (refer toFIG.1A) of the electronic device1000. The image IM displayed through the display panel DP may be viewed by the user through the window600.

The window600may include a thin film glass or a synthetic resin film. When the window600includes the thin film glass, the window600may have a thickness equal to or smaller than about100µm. For example, the thickness of the window may be about30µm, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. When the window600includes the synthetic resin film, the window600may include a polyimide (PI) film or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film.

The window600may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the window600may include a plurality of synthetic resin films coupled to each other by an adhesive or the glass substrate and the synthetic resin film coupled to the glass substrate by the adhesive. The window600may include a flexible material. Thus, the window600may be folded or unfolded about the folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A). For example, when the shape of the display panel DP is changed, the shape of the window600may be changed to correspond to the shape of the display panel DP.

The window600may transmit the image IM (refer toFIG.1A) from the display panel DP and concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) may buffer the external impacts to prevent or reduce the display panel DP from being damaged or malfunctioning due to the external impacts. The external impacts may refer to external forces, such as pressure or stress, which cause defects in the display panel DP.

The optical layer OPL and the adhesive layer AD1may be disposed between the window600and the display panel DP. The window600may include a first layer610, a second layer620, and a bezel pattern BZ. The first layer610may include a glass material. For example, the first layer610may have a thickness equal to or smaller than about 10 µm. Accordingly, the first layer610may be easily folded.

The second layer620may be disposed on the first layer610. The second layer620may include a material having a modulus of elasticity lower than that of the first layer610. For example, the second layer620may be a film including an organic material. The second layer620may have a thickness greater than that of the first layer610. The second layer620may have a thickness equal to or smaller than about 105 µm. The second layer620may protect an upper surface of the first layer610.

In some embodiments, the bezel pattern BZ may be inserted into the second layer620, however, this is merely an example. According to an embodiment, the bezel pattern BZ may be disposed on a lower surface or an upper surface of the second layer620. The bezel pattern BZ may be a colored pattern having a set or predetermined color or a reflective pattern. The bezel pattern BZ may define the first peripheral area F-NAA (refer toFIG.1A) described above, however, this is merely an example. According to an embodiment, the bezel pattern BZ may not be provided from the window600. According to another embodiment, the window600may be formed as a single layer or may further include other functional layers, but it should not be particularly limited.

In some embodiments, although not shown inFIG.3, the electronic device1000may further include a protective layer disposed on the window600. The protective layer may improve an impact resistance of the window600and may prevent or reduce the window600from shattering when damaged. The protective layer may include at least one of a urethane-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a polyester-based resin, a polyether-based resin, an acrylate-based resin, an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin, and a rubber. For example, the protective layer may include at least one of phenylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), or polycarbonate (PC).

In some embodiments, the electronic device1000may further include one or more functional layers disposed between the display panel DP and the window600. For example, the functional layer may be an anti-reflective layer that blocks the reflection of external light. The anti-reflective layer may prevent or reduce components included in the display panel DP from being viewed from the outside due to the external light incident through the front surface of the electronic device1000. The anti-reflective layer may include a retarder, a polarizer, or a color filter.

FIG.5is a plan view of an area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.1A and5, the area AA′ ofFIG.5may be a portion of the folding area FA1ofFIG.1A. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a plurality of first light emitting areas PXA1, a plurality of second light emitting areas PXA2, a plurality of third light emitting areas PXA3, and a non-light-emitting area NPXA. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting areas PXA1, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting areas PXA2, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting areas PXA3. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

The first light emitting areas PXA1may be spaced apart from each other with the respective second light emitting areas PXA2interposed therebetween in a first cross direction DRa crossing the first direction DR1and the second direction DR2.

The first light emitting areas PXA1may be spaced apart from each other with the respective third light emitting areas PXA3interposed therebetween in a second cross direction DRb crossing the first cross direction DRa.

Each of the first light emitting areas PXA1may have a size smaller than a size of each of the second light emitting areas PXA2and/or smaller than a size of each of the third light emitting areas PXA3.

Each of the second light emitting areas PXA2may be disposed between four respective first light emitting areas PXA1.

The size of each of the second light emitting areas PXA2may be greater than the size of each of the first light emitting areas PXA1and/or greater than the size of each of the third light emitting areas PXA3.

Each of the third light emitting areas PXA3may be disposed between four respective first light emitting areas PXA1.

The size of each of the third light emitting areas PXA3may be greater than the size of each of the first light emitting areas PXA1and/or may be smaller than the size of each of the second light emitting areas PXA2.

The non-light-emitting area NPXA may be disposed adjacent to the first light emitting areas PXA1, the second light emitting areas PXA2, and the third light emitting areas PXA3. The non-light-emitting area NPXA may define a boundary between the first light emitting areas PXA1, the second light emitting areas PXA2, and the third light emitting areas PXA3.

A plurality of patterns PT may be disposed between the first, second, and third light emitting areas PXA1, PXA2, and PXA3. The patterns PT may be disposed in the non-light-emitting area NPXA.

The patterns PT may be disposed in the folding area FA1. For example, the patterns PT may overlap the folding area FA1. The patterns PT may not be disposed in the non-folding areas NFA1and NFA2. For example, the patterns PT may not overlap the non-folding areas NFA1and NFA2.

A plurality of spacers SP1and SP2may be disposed between the patterns PT and the light emitting areas PXA1, PXA2, and PXA3.

The spacers SP1and SP2may include a first spacer SP1and a second spacer SP2. The first spacer SP1may be provided in plurality. The second spacer SP2may be provided in plurality.

The first spacer SP1may be spaced apart from the patterns PT, however, this is merely an example. The first spacer SP1should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the first spacer SP1may be provided integrally with the patterns PT.

The second spacer SP2may include a first portion SPa and a second portion SPb. The second spacer SP2may be arranged in an n by m matrix (each of n and m is a positive integer number).FIG.5shows the first portion SPa and the second portion SPb, which are arranged in two by two matrix as a representative example.

FIG.6is a plan view of an area BB′ ofFIG.5according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.6, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.6, the patterns PT may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1and the third light emitting area PXA3. A distance WD-PXA between the first light emitting area PXA1and the third light emitting area PXA3may be within a range from about 27 µm to about 32 µm.

Each of the patterns PT may extend in the first cross direction DRa. The patterns PT may be spaced apart from each other in the second cross direction DRb. The patterns PT may also be spaced apart from each other in the first cross direction DRa. The patterns PT may be arranged in an a by b (a×b) matrix (each of a and b is a positive integer number).FIG.6shows the patterns PT arranged in two by three (2×3) matrix as a representative example.

The patterns PT may be spaced apart from each other by a gap GP. The gap GP may be within a range from about 1.5 µm to about 4.5 µm.

FIG.7is a cross-sectional view taken along a line II-II′ ofFIG.6according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.7, the display layer100may include the base layer110, the circuit layer120, the light emitting element layer130, and the encapsulation layer140.

The base layer110may provide a base surface on which the circuit layer120is disposed. The base layer110may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or a polymer substrate. However, the embodiment should not be limited thereto or thereby, and according to an embodiment, the base layer110may be an inorganic layer, an organic layer, or a composite material layer. The base layer110may be flexible. The base layer110shown inFIG.7may be referred to as a first area. The first area of the base layer110may be an area in which the shape of the electronic device1000(refer toFIGS.1A and1B) is changed. In some embodiments, a second area may be further defined in the base layer110to be adjacent to the first area.

The base layer110may have a multi-layer structure. For instance, the base layer110may include a first synthetic resin layer, a silicon oxide (SiOx) layer disposed on the first synthetic resin layer, an amorphous silicon (a-Si) layer disposed on the silicon oxide layer, and a second synthetic resin layer disposed on the amorphous silicon layer. The silicon oxide layer and the amorphous silicon layer may be referred to as a base barrier layer.

Each of the first and second synthetic resin layers may include a polyimide-based resin. In some embodiments, each of the first and second synthetic resin layers may include at least one of an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, a polyisoprene-based resin, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, or a perylene-based resin. In the present disclosure, the term “X-based resin”, as used herein, refers to the resin that includes a functional group of X.

At least one inorganic layer may be formed on an upper surface of the base layer110. The inorganic layer may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, or hafnium oxide. The inorganic layer may be formed in multiple layers. The inorganic layers formed in multiple layers may form a barrier layer and/or a buffer layer. In the present embodiment, the display layer100may include a buffer layer BFL.

The buffer layer BFL may increase an adhesion between the base layer110and a semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer BFL may include at least one of a silicon oxide layer, a silicon nitride layer, and a silicon oxynitride layer. For example, the buffer layer BFL may have a stack structure in which the silicon oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer are alternately stacked with each other.

The semiconductor pattern may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polysilicon, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. The semiconductor pattern may include amorphous silicon, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, or oxide semiconductor.

FIG.7shows only a portion of the semiconductor pattern, and the semiconductor pattern may be further disposed in other areas. The semiconductor pattern may be arranged with a specific rule over pixels. The semiconductor pattern may have different electrical properties depending on whether it is doped or not or whether it is doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The semiconductor pattern may include a first region with high conductivity and a second region with low conductivity. The first region may be doped with the N-type dopant or the P-type dopant. A P-type transistor may include a doped region doped with the P-type dopant, and an N-type transistor may include a doped region doped with the N-type dopant. The second region may be a non-doped region or may be doped at a concentration lower than the first region.

The first region may have a conductivity greater than that of the second region and may substantially serve as an electrode or a signal line. The second region may substantially correspond to an active area of a transistor. In other words, a portion of the semiconductor pattern may be the active area of the transistor, another portion of the semiconductor pattern may be a source area or a drain area of the transistor, and the other portion of the semiconductor pattern may be a connection electrode or a connection signal line.

Each of the pixels may have an equivalent circuit that includes seven transistors, one capacitor, and a light emitting element, and the equivalent circuit of the pixels may be changed in one or more suitable ways.FIG.7shows one transistor100PC and the light emitting element100PE included in the pixel.

A source area SC, an active area AL, and a drain area DR may be formed from the semiconductor pattern. The source area SC and the drain area DR may extend in opposite directions to each other from the active area AL in a cross-section.FIG.7shows a portion of a connection signal line SCL formed from the semiconductor pattern. In some embodiments, the connection signal line SCL may be electrically connected to the drain area DR of the transistor100PC in a plane (e.g., in a plan view).

A first insulating layer10may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The first insulating layer10may commonly overlap the pixels and may cover the semiconductor pattern. The first insulating layer10may be an inorganic layer and/or an organic layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer10may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, or hafnium oxide. In the present embodiment, the first insulating layer10may have a single-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer. Not only the first insulating layer10, but also an insulating layer of the circuit layer120described later in more detail may be an inorganic layer and/or an organic layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The inorganic layer may include at least one of the above-mentioned materials, however, it should not be limited thereto.

A gate GT of the transistor100PC may be disposed on the first insulating layer10. The gate GT may be a portion of a metal pattern. The gate GT may overlap the active area AL. The gate GT may be used as a mask in a process of doping the semiconductor pattern.

A second insulating layer20may be disposed on the first insulating layer10and may cover the gate GT. The second insulating layer20may commonly overlap the pixels. The second insulating layer20may be an inorganic layer and/or an organic layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The second insulating layer20may include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride. In the present embodiment, the second insulating layer20may have a multi-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

A third insulating layer30may be disposed on the second insulating layer20. The third insulating layer30may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. As an example, the third insulating layer30may have the multi-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

A first connection electrode CNE1 may be disposed on the third insulating layer30. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be connected to the connection signal line SCL via a contact hole CNT-1defined through the first, second, and third insulating layers10,20, and30.

A fourth insulating layer40may be disposed on the third insulating layer30. The fourth insulating layer40may have a single-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer. A fifth insulating layer50may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer40. The fifth insulating layer50may be an organic layer.

A second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer50. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 via a contact hole CNT-2 defined through the fourth insulating layer40and the fifth insulating layer50.

A sixth insulating layer60may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer50and may cover the second connection electrode CNE2. The sixth insulating layer60may be an organic layer.

The light emitting element layer130may be disposed on the circuit layer120. The light emitting element layer130may include the light emitting element100PE. For example, the light emitting element layer130may include an organic light emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro-LED, or a nano-LED. Hereinafter, the organic light emitting element will be described as the light emitting element100PE, however, the light emitting element100PE should not be limited thereto or thereby.

The light emitting element100PE may include a first electrode AE, a light emitting layer EL, and a second electrode CE.

The first electrode AE may be disposed on the sixth insulating layer60. The first electrode AE may be connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 via a contact hole CNT-3 defined through the sixth insulating layer60. The first electrode AE may be provided in plural, and the first electrodes AE may overlap the light emitting areas PXA1, PXA2, and PXA3(refer toFIG.5), respectively, when viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view).

A pixel definition layer70may be disposed on the sixth insulating layer60and may cover a portion of the first electrode AE. An opening70-OP may be defined through the pixel definition layer70. At least a portion of the first electrode AE may be exposed through the opening70-OP of the pixel definition layer70.

The first active area F-AA (refer toFIG.1A) may include a light emitting area and a non-light-emitting area NPXA adjacent to the light emitting area PXA. The non-light-emitting area NPXA may surround the light emitting area PXA. In the present embodiment, the light emitting area PXA may correspond to the portion of the first electrode AE exposed through the opening70-OP.

The light emitting layer EL may be disposed on the first electrode AE. The light emitting layer EL may be disposed in an area corresponding to the opening70-OP. For example, the light emitting layer EL may be formed in each of the pixels after being divided into plural portions. In the case where the light emitting layer EL is formed in each of the pixels after being divided into plural portions, each of the light emitting layers EL may emit a light having at least one of blue, red, and green colors, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby. The light emitting layer EL may be commonly provided in the pixels. In this case, the light emitting layer EL may provide a blue light or a white light.

For example, the light emitting layer EL disposed in the first light emitting area PXA1(refer toFIG.5) may emit a green light, the light emitting layer EL disposed in the second light emitting area PXA2(refer toFIG.5) may emit a blue light, and the light emitting layer EL disposed in the third light emitting area PXA3(refer toFIG.5) may emit a red light.

In some embodiments, a hole control layer may be disposed between the first electrode AE and the light emitting layer EL. The hole control layer may be commonly disposed in the light emitting area PXA and the non-light-emitting area NPXA. The hole control layer may include a hole transport layer and may further include a hole injection layer. An electron control layer may be disposed between the light emitting layer EL and the second electrode CE. The electron control layer may include an electron transport layer and may further include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer and the electron control layer may be commonly formed in the plural pixels using an open mask.

The second electrode CE may be disposed on the light emitting layer EL. The second electrode CE may be referred to as a common electrode CE.

The patterns PT may be disposed on the pixel definition layer70.

The encapsulation layer140may be disposed on the light emitting element layer130and may cover the light emitting element layer130. The encapsulation layer140may cover the second electrode CE and the patterns PT. The encapsulation layer140may include a first inorganic layer, and organic layer, and a second inorganic layer, which are sequentially stacked in the third direction DR3, however, this is merely an example. The encapsulation layer140should not be limited thereto or thereby. As an example, the encapsulation layer140may further include a plurality of inorganic layers and a plurality of organic layers.

The sensor layer200may include a base layer201, a first conductive layer202, a sensing insulating layer203, a second conductive layer204, and a cover insulating layer205.

The base layer201may be an inorganic layer that includes at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide. In some embodiments, the base layer201may be an organic layer that includes an epoxy-based resin, an acrylic-based resin, or an imide-based resin. The base layer201may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure of layers stacked one on another in the third direction DR3.

Each of the first conductive layer202and the second conductive layer204may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure of layers stacked in the third direction DR3.

The conductive layer having the single-layer structure may include a metal layer or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer may include molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or alloy(s) thereof. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO), and/or the like. In some embodiments, the transparent conductive layer may include a conductive polymer such as PEDOT, a metal nanowire, a graphene, and/or the like.

The conductive layer having the multi-layer structure may include metal layers. The metal layers may have, for example, a three-layer structure of titanium/aluminum/titanium. The conductive layer having the multi-layer structure may include at least one metal layer and at least one transparent conductive layer.

When viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), the first conductive layer202or the second conductive layer204may overlap the patterns PT.

At least one of the sensing insulating layer203or the cover insulating layer205may include an inorganic layer. The inorganic layer may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, or hafnium oxide.

At least one of the sensing insulating layer203or the cover insulating layer205may include an organic layer. The organic layer may include at least one of an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, a polyisoprene-based resin, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyimide-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, or a perylene-based resin.

FIG.8Ais an enlarged cross-sectional view of an area CC′ ofFIG.7according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.8A, a width WD-70 of the pixel definition layer70between the light emitting layers EL (refer toFIG.7) may be within a range from about 27 µm to about 32 µm. The width WD-70 of the pixel definition layer70may be substantially the same as the distance WD-PXA between the light emitting areas PXA1, PXA2, and PXA3(refer toFIG.5).

The patterns PT may be disposed on the pixel definition layer70. In some embodiments, the number of the patterns PT may be two. Each of the patterns PT may have a reverse taper shape.

The second electrode CE may be disposed on the pixel definition layer70and the patterns PT. The second electrode CE may include a first electrode portion CE-1and second electrode portions CE-2.

The first electrode portion CE-1may be disposed on the light emitting layer EL (refer toFIG.7) and the pixel definition layer70. A plurality of openings OP-CE that does not overlap the patterns PT when viewed in a plane may be defined through the first electrode portion CE-1.

When viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), the second electrode portions CE-2may respectively overlap the openings OP-CE. The second electrode portions CE-2may be disposed on the patterns PT, respectively.

An inclined portion of each of the patterns PT having the reverse taper shape may not be covered by the second electrode CE due to a step coverage of the conductive material included in the second electrode CE. A side surface of the reverse taper shape may be opened. The second electrode CE may not be disposed on the side surface of each of the patterns PT.

The side surface of each of the patterns PT may be in direct contact with the first inorganic layer141. An adhesion between the side surface of each of the patterns PT and the first inorganic layer141may be smaller than an adhesion between the second electrode CE and the first inorganic layer141. Accordingly, the encapsulation layer140may be prevented or reduced from being separated by an external force.

In contrast to the present disclosure, a case where each of the light emitting layer EL (refer toFIG.7) and the second electrode CE is formed without being disconnected between the light emitting areas PXA1, PXA2, and PXA3(refer toFIG.5) adjacent to each other, a current may leak, and the light emitting layers EL (refer toFIG.7) adjacent to each other may influence each other. In this case, the light emitting layer EL (refer toFIG.7) may not emit a light having a desired color due to the leakage current, so color reproducibility of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be lowered. However, according to the present disclosure, a portion of the second electrode CE may be disconnected by the openings OP-CE. A resistance of the second electrode CE may increase. The leakage current may be prevented or reduced from occurring through the second electrode CE. Accordingly, a reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

The encapsulation layer140may include the first inorganic layer141, the organic layer142, and the second inorganic layer143.

The first inorganic layer141may prevent or reduce external moisture or oxygen from entering the light emitting element layer130(refer toFIG.7). For example, the first inorganic layer141may include silicon nitride, silicon oxide, or a compound thereof. The first inorganic layer141may cover the second electrode CE and the patterns PT.

The organic layer142may be disposed on the first inorganic layer141and may provide a flat surface. Curved portions on an upper surface of the first inorganic layer141or particles remaining on the first inorganic layer141may be covered by the organic layer142. For example, the organic layer142may include an acrylic-based organic layer, however, it should not be limited thereto or thereby.

The second inorganic layer143may be disposed on the organic layer142and may cover the organic layer142. The second inorganic layer143may encapsulate moisture drained from the organic layer142and may prevent or reduce the moisture from entering other elements. The second inorganic layer143may include silicon nitride, silicon oxide, or a compound thereof.

When viewed in a plane (e.g., in a plan view), each of the patterns PT may have a width from about 3 µm to about 4 µm. A first width WD1-PT of a lower surface of the reverse taper shape may be within a range from about 3 µm to about 3.3 µm. For example, the first width WD1-PT may be about 3.15 µm. A second width WD2-PT of an upper surface of the reverse taper shape may be within a range from about 3.5 µm to about 4 µm. For example, the second width WD2-PT may be about 3.9 µm.

In contrast to the present disclosure, a case where the width of each of the patterns PT is smaller than about 3 µm, the encapsulation layer140may be easily separated in the folded state of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A). In a case where the width of each of the patterns PT is greater than about 4 µm, it is difficult to place the patterns PT between the light emitting areas. When the width of each of the patterns PT is smaller than about 3.0 micrometers or greater than about 4.0 micrometers in the flexible electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A), the adhesion between the components may be reduced, and thus, the separation may occur. However, according to the present disclosure, each of the patterns PT may have the reverse taper shape. The patterns PT may have a shape appropriate or suitable to prevent or reduce the occurrence of the separation phenomenon. The encapsulation layer140may be prevented or reduced from being separated by the external force. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

Each of the patterns PT may have a thickness HT-PT from about 1 µm to about 2 µm. For example, the thickness HT-PT may be about 1.5 µm.

In a case where the thickness HT-PT is smaller than about 1 µm, the side surface of each of the patterns PT may be insufficiently secured in the folded state of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A), and thus, the encapsulation layer140may be easily separated. In a case where the thickness HT-PT is greater than about 2 µm, the thickness of the encapsulation layer140may increase. However, according to the present disclosure, the patterns PT may have a shape appropriate or suitable to prevent or reduce the occurrence of the separation phenomenon. The encapsulation layer140may be prevented or reduced from being separated by the external force. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

A distance WD3-PT between the patterns PT may be within a range from about 1.5 µm to about 4.5 µm. For example, the distance WD3-PT may be about 3.5 µm. According to the present disclosure, the separation of the encapsulation layer140may be prevented or reduced by the widths WD1-PT and WD2-PT of each of the patterns PT, the thickness HT-PT of each of the patterns PT, and the distance WD3-PT between the patterns PT. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.8Bis an enlarged cross-sectional view of an area corresponding to the area CC′ ofFIG.7according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.8B, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.8A, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.8B, the patterns PT may be disposed on the pixel definition layer70. InFIG.8B, three patterns PT are provided. However, this is merely an example, and the number of the patterns PT should not be limited to three. The number of the patterns PT may be determined based on the width WD-70 (refer toFIG.8A) of the pixel definition layer70disposed between the light emitting layers EL (refer toFIG.7). Each of the patterns PT may have the reverse taper shape.

According to the present disclosure, as the number of the patterns PT increases, the separation of the encapsulation layer140by the external force may be more efficiently prevented or reduced. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.9is a plan view of an area DD′ ofFIG.5according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.10is a cross-sectional view taken along a line III-III′ ofFIG.9according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.10, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.8A, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIGS.9and10, the second spacer SP2may include the first portion SPa and the second portion SPb.

The first portion SPa and the second portion SPb may be arranged in n by m (n×m) matrix (each of n and m is a positive integer number).FIG.9shows the second spacer SP2with two by two (2×2) matrix according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

A width WD1-SP of the first portion SPa and a width WD2-SP of the second portion SPb may be within a range from about 9 µm to about 13 µm.

A distance WD3-SP between the first portion SPa and the second portion SPb may be within a range from about 1.5 µm to about 4.5 µm.

A thickness HT-SP of each of the first portion SPa and the second portion SPb may be within a range from about 2.3 µm to about 3.3 µm.

According to the present disclosure, the second spacer SP2may have a shape appropriate or suitable to prevent or reduce the occurrence of the separation phenomenon. The first inorganic layer141may be prevented or reduced from being separated by the external force. Accordingly, the reliability of the electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Ais a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11A, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11A, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1a, a second light emitting area PXA2a, a third light emitting area PXA3a, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAa. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1a, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2a, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3a. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1aand the third light emitting area PXA3amay have a quadrangular shape, and the second light emitting area PXA2amay have a rectangular shape.

The first light emitting area PXA1amay be spaced apart from the second light emitting area PXA2ain the second direction DR2. The first light emitting area PXA1a may be spaced apart from the third light emitting area PXA3ain the first direction DR1. The second light emitting area PXA2amay extend (e.g., may have a length) in the first direction DR1.

A first width WD-1a between the first light emitting area PXA1aand the third light emitting area PXA3amay be within a range from about 15 µm to about 20 µm. A second width WD-2a between the first light emitting area PXA1aand the second light emitting area PXA2aand between the third light emitting area PXA3aand the second light emitting area PXA2amay be within a range from about 12 µm to about 15 µm.

A plurality of patterns may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1aand the second light emitting area PXA2aand between the third light emitting area PXA3aand the second light emitting area PXA2a. Each of the patterns may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A).

The patterns may include a plurality of first patterns PT1aand a plurality of second patterns PT2a. Each of the first patterns PT1amay extend in the first direction DR1. The first patterns PT1amay be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2.FIG.11Ashows two first patterns PT1aspaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2as a representative example, however, the number of the first patterns PT1ashould not be limited thereto or thereby. And the number of first patterns PT1a(s) arranged in the second direction is not limited thereto. Each of the second patterns PT2amay extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing each of the first direction DR1and the second direction DR2.

A plurality of spacers may be disposed adjacent to the second light emitting area PXA2a. The spacers may include a first spacer SP1a and a second spacer SP2a. The second spacer SP2amay be arranged in an n by m (nxm) matrix (each of n and m is a positive integer number).

According to an embodiment, the first pattern PT1a, the second pattern PT2a, and the second spacer SP2amay prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Bis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11B, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11B, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1b, a second light emitting area PXA2b, a third light emitting area PXA3b, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAb. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1b, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2b, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3b. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. As an example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1band the third light emitting area PXA3bmay have a polygonal shape, and the second light emitting area PXA2bmay have a hexagonal shape. Each of the first light emitting area PXA1band the third light emitting area PXA3bmay have a size smaller than that of the second light emitting area PXA2b.

The first light emitting area PXA1bmay be spaced apart from the second light emitting area PXA2bin a first cross direction DRa. The first light emitting area PXA1bmay be spaced apart from the third light emitting area PXA3bin the first direction DR1. The third light emitting area PXA3bmay be spaced apart from the second light emitting area PXA2bin a second cross direction DRb.

A first width WD1b between the first light emitting area PXA1band the second light emitting area PXA2bmay be within a range from about 27 µm to about 28 µm. A second width WD-2b between the third light emitting area PXA3band the second light emitting area PXA2bmay be substantially the same as the first width WD1b. The second light emitting area PXA2bmay be provided in plural, and a third width WD3b between the second light emitting areas PXA2bmay be within a range from about 60 µm to about 66 µm.

A plurality of patterns PTb may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1band the second light emitting area PXA2band between the third light emitting area PXA3band the second light emitting area PXA2b. Each of the patterns PTb may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A).

According to the present disclosure, the patterns PTb may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Cis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11C, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11C, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1c, a second light emitting area PXA2c, a third light emitting area PXA3c, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAc. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1c, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2c, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3c. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1c, the second light emitting area PXA2c, and the third light emitting area PXA3cmay have a hexagonal shape. The first light emitting area PXA1c, the second light emitting area PXA2c, and the third light emitting area PXA3cmay have the same size.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1c, the second light emitting area PXA2c, and the third light emitting area PXA3cmay be provided in plural. The first light emitting area PXA1cmay be surrounded by the second light emitting areas PXA2cspaced apart from each other and the third light emitting areas PXA3cspaced apart from each other. The second light emitting area PXA2cmay be surrounded by the first light emitting areas PXA1cspaced apart from each other and the third light emitting areas PXA3cspaced apart from each other. The third light emitting area PXA3cmay be surrounded by the first light emitting areas PXA1cspaced apart from each other and the second light emitting areas PXA2cspaced apart from each other.

At least one pattern PTc may be disposed between two light emitting areas of the first light emitting area PXA1c, the second light emitting area PXA2c, and the third light emitting area PXA3c. The pattern PTc may be provided in plural, and each of the patterns PTc may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A).

According to the present disclosure, the patterns PTc may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Dis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11D, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11D, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1d, a second light emitting area PXA2d, a third light emitting area PXA3d, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAd. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1d, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2d, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3d. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1d, the second light emitting area PXA2d, and the third light emitting area PXA3dmay have a rectangular shape.

The first light emitting area PXA1dmay be disposed between the second light emitting area PXA2dand the third light emitting area PXA3d(i.e., spaced apart from the second light emitting area PXA2din the second direction DR2). The second light emitting area PXA2dand the third light emitting area PXA3dmay be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

A plurality of patterns PT1d may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1d, the second light emitting area PXA2d, and the third light emitting area PXA3d. Each of the patterns PT1d may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A). For example, the patterns PT1d may extend in the first direction DR1.

According to the present embodiment, the patterns PT1d may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Eis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11E, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11E, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1e, a second light emitting area PXA2e, a third light emitting area PXA3e, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAe. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1e, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2e, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3e. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

The first light emitting area PXA1emay be provided in plural. Two first light emitting areas PXA1emay be disposed spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. The second light emitting area PXA2emay be spaced apart from the two first light emitting areas PXA1ein the second direction DR2. The third light emitting area PXA3emay be spaced apart from the two first light emitting areas PXA1ein the second direction DR2.

A first width WD-1e between the first light emitting area PXA1eand the third light emitting area PXA3emay be within a range from about 23 µm to about 24 µm. A second width WD-2e between the second light emitting area PXA2eand the third light emitting area PXA3emay be within a range from about 28 µm to about 29 µm. A third width WD-3e between the two first light emitting areas PXA1emay be within a range from about 14 µm to about 15 µm.

A plurality of patterns PTe may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1e, the second light emitting area PXA2e, and the third light emitting area PXA3e. Each of the patterns PTe may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A).

According to the present embodiment, the patterns PTe may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Fis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11F, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11F, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1f, a second light emitting area PXA2f, a third light emitting area PXA3f, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAf. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1f, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2f, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3f. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

Each of the first light emitting area PXA1f, the second light emitting area PXA2f, and the third light emitting area PXA3fmay have a quadrangular shape.

The first light emitting area PXA1fmay be spaced apart from the second light emitting area PXA2fand the third light emitting area PXA3fin the second direction DR2.

Each of patterns PTf may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1f, the second light emitting area PXA2f, and the third light emitting area PXA3f. Each of the patterns PTf may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A). The patterns PTf may extend in the first direction DR1.

According to the present embodiment, the patterns PTf may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11Gis a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11G, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11G, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1g, a second light emitting area PXA2g, a third light emitting area PXA3g, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAg. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1g, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2g, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3g. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

The first light emitting area PXA1g, the second light emitting area PXA2g, and the third light emitting area PXA3gmay be spaced apart from each other in a first cross direction DRa and a second cross direction DRb.

A first width WD-1g in the first cross direction DRa between the first light emitting area PXA1gand the third light emitting area PXA3gmay be within a range from about 23 µm to about 24 µm. The first width WD-1g may be substantially the same as a width in the second cross direction DRb between the first light emitting area PXA1gand the second light emitting area PXA2g.

A second width WD-2g between the second light emitting area PXA2gand the third light emitting area PXA3gmay be within a range from about 27 µm to about 28 µm.

The first light emitting area PXA1gmay be provided in plural, and a third width WD-3g between two first light emitting areas PXA1gadjacent to each other may be within a range from about 44 µm to about 45 µm.

A plurality of patterns PTg may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1g, the second light emitting area PXA2g, and the third light emitting area PXA3g. Each of the patterns PTg may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A). Each of the patterns PTg may extend in the first cross direction DRa or the second cross direction DRb.

According to the present disclosure, the patterns PTg may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.11His a plan view of an area corresponding to the area AA′ ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure. InFIG.11H, the same reference numerals denote the same elements inFIG.5, and thus, detailed descriptions of the same elements will not be provided.

Referring toFIG.11H, a display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may include a first light emitting area PXA1h, a second light emitting area PXA2h, a third light emitting area PXA3h, and a non-light-emitting area NPXAh. The display panel DP (refer toFIG.4) may provide a first color light through the first light emitting area PXA1h, may provide a second color light through the second light emitting area PXA2h, and may provide a third color light through the third light emitting area PXA3h. The first color light, the second color light, and the third color light may have different colors from each other. For example, the first color light may be a green light, the second color light may be a blue light, and the third color light may be a red light.

The first light emitting area PXA1hmay have a lozenge shape, and each of the second light emitting area PXA2hand the third light emitting area PXA3hmay have a hexagonal shape.

The first light emitting area PXA1hmay be provided in plural. Two first light emitting areas PXA1hmay be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. The second light emitting area PXA2hand the third light emitting area PXA3hmay be disposed between the two first light emitting areas PXA1h. The second light emitting area PXA2hand the third light emitting area PXA3hmay be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

A plurality of patterns PTh may be disposed between the first light emitting area PXA1hand the second light emitting area PXA2hand between the first light emitting area PXA1hand the third light emitting area PXA3h. Each of the patterns PTh may extend (e.g., may have a length) in a direction crossing a folding axis AX1(refer toFIG.1A).

According to the present disclosure, the patterns PTh may prevent or reduce an encapsulation layer140(refer toFIG.4) from being separated by an external force. Accordingly, a reliability of an electronic device1000(refer toFIG.1A) may be improved.

FIG.12Ais a perspective view of an electronic device1000-2according to an embodiment of the present disclosure,FIG.12Bis a view of an expansion mode of the electronic device1000-2shown inFIG.12Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.12Cis a perspective view of the electronic device1000-2shown inFIG.12Aaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.12A to12C, the electronic device1000-2may include a display module100-2and a case CS in which the display module100-2is accommodated. The display module100-2may be exposed to the outside through a display opening S_OP defined through an upper portion of the case CS.

The case CS may include a first case CS1and a second case CS2. The first case CS1and the second case CS2may be coupled to each other to accommodate the display module100-2. The second case CS2may be coupled to the first case CS1to move in a first direction DR1.

An area of an exposed surface of the display module100-2may be adjusted by the movement of the second case CS2. As an example, the display module100-2may be a flexible display module and may be supported by support plates SPc, SPd, and SB disposed under the display module100-2. The support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may be connected to the first and second cases CS1and CS2, and when the second case CS2moves in the first direction DR1, the support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may also move in the first direction DR1.

In some embodiments, a portion of the display module100-2that is not exposed to the outside may be disposed in the first case CS1except a portion of the display module DM exposed through the display opening S_OP, i.e., a display surface. As the second case CS2moves, a size of the display opening S_OP may increase in the first direction DR1. In some embodiments, the display module100-2disposed on the support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may move in the first direction DR1together with the support plates SPc, SPd, and SB due to the movement of the second case CS2, and thus, the exposed surface of the display module100-2exposed through the display opening S_OP may be expanded. Accordingly, the user may view the image through a larger screen.

The display surface DS of the display module100-2may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a non-display area NDA. The first display area DA1of the display surface DS may be provided in a size corresponding to the display opening S_OP in a basic mode to determine a screen size in the basic mode. For example, in the basic mode, the first display area DA1of the display surface DS may be exposed through the display opening S_OP, and the second display area DA2and the non-display area NDA may not be exposed through the display opening S_OP. According to an embodiment, the first display area DA1and a portion of the second display area DA2may be exposed through the display opening S_OP in the basic mode.

The second display area DA2may be defined adjacent to the first display area DA1, and when the electronic device1000-2is operated in an expansion mode, a portion of the second display area DA2may be exposed through the display opening S_OP as well as the first display area DA1. For example, the screen size of the electronic device1000-2may increase by the exposed portion of the second display area DA2.

The non-display area NDA may be defined adjacent to the second display area DA2. For example, the second display area DA2may be defined between the first display area DA1and the non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may be a non-effective area that is not used as the screen of the electronic device1000-2.

The support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may be disposed under the display module100-2. The support plates SPc, SPd, and SB disposed under the display module100-2may support the display module100-2. The support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may be disposed on a rear surface of the display module100-2, which is opposite to the display surface DS. The support plates SPc, SPd, and SB may include a first support plate SPc, a second support plate SPd, and a plurality of support bars SB.

The first support plate SPc may have a plate shape substantially parallel to a plane defined by the first and second directions DR1and DR2. The first support plate SPc may be provided in a size corresponding to the first display area DA1of the display module100-2. The first support plate SPc may be disposed on the rear surface opposite to the display surface DS of the display module100-2and may support the first display area DA1of the display module100-2. The second support plate SPd may extend in the second direction DR2. The second support plate SPd may have a rectangular shape defined by long sides extending in the second direction DR2and short sides extending in the first direction DR1. The second support plate SPd may be provided in a size corresponding to the non-display area NDA of the display module100-2. The support bars SB and the second support plate SPd may be disposed on the rear surface of the display module100-2and may support the second display area DA2and the non-display area NDA, respectively.

In the basic mode, the display module100-2of the second display area DA2may be disposed on the rear surface of the first support plate SPc after being bent. For example, the first display area DA1may be defined as a non-bending area, and all or a portion of the second display area DA2may be defined as a bending area. The first support plate SPc may be disposed to correspond to the non-bending area, and the support bars SB may be disposed to correspond to the bending area.

The support bars SB may be disposed between the first support plate SPc and the second support plate SPd. The support bars SB may extend in the second direction DR2and may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The support bars SB may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. When viewed in the second direction DR2, each of the support bars SB may have an inverted trapezoid shape with respect to the display surface DS of the display module100-2.

For example, the support bars SB spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1are shown, however, the structure of the support bars SB should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the support bars SB may also be implemented as joint structures that are rotatably coupled to each other.

As used herein “at least one of a, b or c”, “at least one selected from a, b and c”, etc., may indicate only a, only b, only c, both (e.g., simultaneously) a and b, both (e.g., simultaneously) a and c, both (e.g., simultaneously) b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof. Further, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of the present invention refers to “one or more embodiments of the present invention.”

Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it is understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments but one or more suitable changes and modifications can be made by one ordinary skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as hereinafter claimed. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the present disclosure shall be determined according to the attached claims, and equivalents thereof.