Patent ID: 12207488

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. As used herein, the terms “embodiments” and “implementations” may be used interchangeably and are non-limiting examples employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. It is apparent, however, that various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various embodiments. Further, various embodiments may be different, but do not have to be exclusive. For example, specific shapes, configurations, and characteristics of an embodiment may be used or implemented in another embodiment without departing from the inventive concepts.

Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated embodiments are to be understood as providing example features of varying detail of some embodiments. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions, aspects, etc. (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as an “element” or “elements”), of the various illustrations may be otherwise combined, separated, interchanged, and/or rearranged without departing from the inventive concepts.

The use of cross-hatching and/or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements. As such, neither the presence nor the absence of cross-hatching or shading conveys or indicates any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between illustrated elements, and/or any other characteristic, attribute, property, etc., of the elements, unless specified. Further, in the accompanying drawings, the size and relative sizes of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and/or descriptive purposes. As such, the sizes and relative sizes of the respective elements are not necessarily limited to the sizes and relative sizes shown in the drawings. When an embodiment may be implemented differently, a specific process order may be performed differently from the described order. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially at the same time or performed in an order opposite to the described order. Also, like reference numerals denote like elements.

When an element, such as a layer, is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element, it may be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. When, however, an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other terms and/or phrases used to describe a relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion, e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” “on” versus “directly on,” etc. Further, the term “connected” may refer to physical, electrical, and/or fluid connection. In addition, the DR1-axis, the DR2-axis, and the DR3-axis are not limited to three axes of a rectangular coordinate system, and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1-axis, the DR2-axis, and the DR3-axis may be perpendicular to one another, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to one another. For the purposes of this disclosure, “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” may be construed as X only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for instance, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are 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 disclosure.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “over,” “higher,” “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”), and the like, may be used herein for descriptive purposes, and, thereby, to describe one element's relationship to another element(s) as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of an apparatus in use, operation, and/or manufacture in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the apparatus in the drawings is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. Furthermore, the apparatus may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and, as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing some embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. 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. Moreover, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. It is also noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms, are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and, as such, are utilized to account for inherent deviations in measured, calculated, and/or provided values that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Various embodiments are described herein with reference to sectional views, isometric views, perspective views, plan views, and/or exploded illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments and/or intermediate structures. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result of, for example, manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the particular illustrated shapes of regions, but are to include deviations in shapes that result from, for instance, manufacturing. To this end, regions illustrated in the drawings may be schematic in nature and shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of regions of a device, and, as such, are not intended to be limiting.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.

As customary in the field, some embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in terms of functional blocks, units, and/or modules. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these blocks, units, and/or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits, such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hard-wired circuits, memory elements, wiring connections, and the like, which may be formed using semiconductor-based fabrication techniques or other manufacturing technologies. In the case of the blocks, units, and/or modules being implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they may be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform various functions discussed herein and may optionally be driven by firmware and/or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and/or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) to perform other functions. Also, each block, unit, and/or module of some embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks, units, and/or modules without departing from the inventive concepts. Further, the blocks, units, and/or modules of some embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units, and/or modules without departing from the inventive concepts.

Hereinafter, various embodiments will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIGS.1A and1Bare diagrams illustrating a display device according to some embodiments.

FIG.1Ais a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1A, a display device1000may include a display area DA and a non-display area NA. The display area DA may be an area capable of displaying an image by emitting light. The display area DA may include a front area FA, first and second side areas SA1and SA2positioned adjacent to (e.g., around) the front area FA, and a corner area CA positioned between two adjacent side areas among the first and second side areas SA1and SA2. The display device1000may have a flat surface as the front area FA, and may have a curved surface as the first and second side areas SA1and SA2, and the corner area CA.

The non-display area NA may be an area not emitting light, and may include a driving circuit for driving the display area DA.

FIG.1Bis a diagram illustrating a structure of a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1B, the display area DA of the display device1000may include a window250, an adhesive layer240disposed under the window250, a polarizing layer230disposed under the adhesive layer240, a display panel220disposed under the polarizing layer230, and protective element210disposed under the display panel220.

The window250may transmit light emitted from the display panel220. The window250may include an insulating material, such as transparent plastic or glass. The window250may be attached to the polarizing layer230or the display panel220through the adhesive layer240. The window250may include a curved surface in some areas (for example, side areas SA1and SA2, or corner area CA ofFIG.1A).

The adhesive layer240may include, for instance, at least one of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), and a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). The adhesive layer240may transmit light. The adhesive layer240may be disposed under the window250to provide adhesive force to the window250.

External light may enter the display device1000. The external light may be reflected from various electrodes or wires included in the display panel220. The polarizing layer230may prevent the external light from being reflected and visually recognized. In some embodiments, the display device1000may not include the polarizing layer230, and in this case, the window250and the display panel220may be adhered through the adhesive layer240.

The display panel220may include a plurality of display units (for example, display unit P ofFIG.3). Each of the plurality of display units may emit light. The display panel220may include a curved surface in some areas (for example, side areas SA1and SA2, or corner area CA ofFIG.1A).

The protective element210may be disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220. The protective element210may protect the lower surface of the display panel220.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.2, a display device1000may include a window250, a display panel220, and a protective element210disposed under the display panel220. The display device1000may include a front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A), and a side area (for example, first side area SA1ofFIG.1A).

The window250may transmit light emitted from the display panel220. The window250may have a first surface251in the front area, and a second surface252in the side area. The first surface251may be a flat surface, and the second surface252may be a curved surface. In the side area of the window252, a curvature of the second surface252may be constant. In some embodiments, the curvature of the second surface252may be not constant, and may be different for each location or some locations. In other embodiments, in the side area of the widow250, the second surface252may have various curvatures.

The display panel220may be disposed under the window250. The display panel220may include a plurality of display units P, and each of the plurality of display units P may emit light. When the display panel220is disposed under the window250, the display panel220may have a flat surface in the front area, and may have a curved surface in the side area. For instance, when the display panel220is disposed under the window250, a first display part221of the display panel may have a flat surface, and a second display part222positioned on both sides of the first display part221may have a curved surface. The second display part222may be disposed under the second surface252of the window250.

The protective element210may be disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220. The protective element210may protect the lower surface of the display panel. The protective element210may have different thicknesses in the front area and in the side area. For instance, the protective element210may include a first part211disposed on a lower surface of the first display part221, and a second part212disposed on a lower surface of the second display part222. A thickness of the first part211of the protective element210may be different from a thickness of the second part212of the protective element210. The thickness of the second part212of the protective element210may not be constant. In some embodiments, a thickness (e.g., maximum thickness) of the second part212of the protective element210may be greater than a thickness (e.g., maximum thickness) of the first part212of the protective element210.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display unit included in a display panel according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.3, a display unit P may include a substrate10, a buffer layer15, a first gate insulating layer20, a first interlayer insulating layer25, a second interlayer insulating layer30, a second gate insulating layer35, a third interlayer insulating layer40, a via insulating layer45, a pixel defining layer PDL, a first transistor TFT1, a second transistor TFT2, an organic light emitting diode OLED, and an encapsulation layer70. The first transistor TFT1may include a first active layer17, a first gate electrode23, a capacitance electrode27, a first source electrode41, and a first drain electrode42. The second transistor TFT2may include a second active layer33, a second gate electrode37, a second source electrode43, and a second drain electrode44. The organic light emitting diode OLED may include a lower electrode50, a light emitting layer55, and an upper electrode60.

The substrate10may support each of the layers disposed on the substrate10. The substrate10may include an insulating material, such as a polymer resin, and an inorganic material, such as a glass or quartz.

The buffer layer15may be disposed on the substrate10. The buffer layer15may prevent impurities from penetrating into the first and second transistors TFT1and TFT2. The buffer layer15may include at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and silicon oxynitride.

The first active layer17may be disposed on the buffer layer15. The first active layer17may be (or form) a channel of the first transistor TFT1. The first active layer17may include a silicon-based semiconductor material.

The first gate insulating layer20may be disposed on the first active layer17. The first gate insulating layer20may include at least one of a silicon compound, a metal oxide, etc.

The first gate electrode23may be disposed on the first gate insulating layer20. The first gate electrode23may receive a gate signal input by a driving part. The first gate electrode23may include at least one of a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, etc.

The first interlayer insulating layer25may be disposed on the first gate electrode23. The first interlayer insulating layer25may include at least one of a silicon compound, a metal oxide, etc.

The capacitance electrode27may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer25. The capacitance electrode27and the first gate electrode23may define a capacitor.

The second interlayer insulating layer30may be disposed on the capacitance electrode27. The second interlayer insulating layer30may include at least one of a silicon compound, a metal oxide, etc.

The second active layer33may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer30. The second active layer33may be a channel of the second transistor TFT2. The second active layer33may include an oxide-based semiconductor material.

The second gate insulating layer35may be disposed on the second active layer33. The second gate insulating layer35may include at least one of a silicon compound, a metal oxide, etc.

The second gate electrode37may be disposed on the second gate insulating layer35. The second gate electrode37may receive a gate signal input by a driving part. The second gate electrode37may include at least one of a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive material, etc.

The second interlayer insulating layer40may be disposed on the second gate electrode37. The second interlayer insulating layer40may include at least one of a silicon compound, a metal oxide, etc.

The first source electrode41, the second source electrode43, the first drain electrode42, and the second drain electrode44may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer40. The first source electrode41and the first drain electrode42may contact first active layer17through respective contact holes. The second source electrode43and the second drain electrode44may contact the second active layer33through respective contact holes. The source electrodes41and43and the drain electrodes42and44may include a conductive material, such as at least one of molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), and titanium (Ti).

The via insulating layer45may be disposed on the source electrodes41and43and the drain electrodes42and44. The via insulating layer45may include an organic insulating material, such as polyimide (PI).

The lower electrode50may be disposed on the via insulating layer45. The lower electrode50may contact the first drain electrode42through a contact hole. The lower electrode50may include a conductive material, such as at least one of a metal, an alloy, and a transparent conductive oxide.

The pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the via insulating layer45. The pixel defining layer PDL may cover a part of the lower electrode50. The pixel defining layer PDL may define an opening exposing an upper surface of the lower electrode50. The pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic insulating material, such as polyimide (PI).

The light emitting layer55may be disposed on the lower electrode50. The light emitting layer55may be disposed on the lower electrode50exposed by the opening in the pixel defining layer PDL. The light emitting layer55may include at least one of an organic light emitting material and a quantum dot.

The upper electrode60may be disposed on the light emitting layer55. The upper electrode60may also be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The upper electrode60may include a conductive material, such as at least one of a metal, an alloy, a transparent conductive oxide, etc. For example, the conductive material may include at least one of aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), titanium (Ti), etc.

The encapsulation layer70may be disposed on the upper electrode60. The encapsulation layer70may protect the organic light emitting diode OLED, the first transistor TFT1, and the second transistor TFT2from external moisture and/or dust.

Although an embodiment of the display unit P has been described with reference toFIG.3, the display unit P is not limited to the structure shown inFIG.3. For instance, the display unit P may include any structure capable of receiving an electrical signal and emitting light having a luminance corresponding to an intensity of the electrical signal.

FIGS.4A,4B, and4Care cross-sectional views illustrating a display device according to some embodiments.

Referring toFIG.4A, a protective element210may be attached under a display panel220.FIG.4Amay be a cross-sectional view showing the display panel220ofFIG.2and the protective element210ofFIG.2attached under the display panel220. The protective element210may include a first part211attached under a first display part221, and a second part212attached under a second display part222. The first part may have a first thickness T1. A thickness of the second part212may be greater than the first thickness T1. The thickness of the second part212may not be constant. For example, the thickness of the second part212may be largest at the center of the second part212, and may decrease toward at least one edge of the second part212.

The protective element210may include a cured resin. For instance, the protective element210may include an acrylic resin or an epoxy resin. The protective element210may be formed via a printing method. For example, the protective element210may be formed by applying the cured resin to a lower surface of the display panel220, and then repeating one or more curing processes. Accordingly, the protective element210may have various shapes. For example, a thickness of the protective element210may be different for each position where the protective element210is attached to the lower surface of the display panel220.

Referring toFIG.4B, the display panel220to which the protective element210is attached may be attached to the lower surface of the window250. An adhesive layer240may be disposed on a lower surface of the window250to provide adhesive force.

The display panel220to which the protective element210is attached may be disposed under the window250, and a pad260may be disposed under the display panel220.

An upper surface of the pad260may have a substantially same shape as the lower surface of the window250. The pad260may move in a third direction DR3, and the upper surface of the pad260may contact the protective element210attached under the display panel220. The pad260may push the protective element210attached under the display panel220in the third direction DR3and may press the display panel220and the protective element210in the third direction DR3. Accordingly, an upper surface of the display panel220may be adhered to the lower surface of the window250by the adhesive layer240.

In some embodiments, the thickness of the second part212of the protective element210may be greater than the thickness of the first part211of the protective element210. Accordingly, a pressure applied by the pad260to the second part212of the protective element210may be greater than a pressure applied by the pad260to the first part211of the protective element210. Accordingly, when the second part212of the protective element210and the second display part222are bent corresponding to a curvature of the second surface252of the window250, the second part212of the protective element210and the second display part222may be provided with sufficient pressure by the pad260, and an empty space (for example, a bubble) between the second display part222and the adhesive layer240may not be formed.

When the thickness of the second part212of the protective element210is adjusted, the pressure applied by the pad260to the second part212of the protective element210may be adjusted. For example, by increasing the thickness of the second part212, the pressure applied by the pad260to the second part212of the protective element210may be increased. Accordingly, when the curvature of the second surface252of the window250is relatively large, by increasing the thickness of the second part212of the protective element210, the empty space may not be formed.

Referring toFIG.4C, the display panel220may be attached to the lower surface of the window250. The second display part222of the display panel220may be bent in response to the curvature of the second surface252of the window250. There may be no empty space (for example, a bubble) between the second display part222and the adhesive layer240.

FIGS.5A,5B, and5Care diagrams illustrating a display device according to some embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.5A and5B, the display device1000may further include a supporting element270disposed on a lower surface of the protective element210in (or overlapping with) the front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A). For example, the supporting element270may disposed on a lower surface of the first part221of the protective element210. A Young's modulus of the supporting element270may be greater than a Young's modulus of the protective element210. The supporting element270may support a display panel220in the front area.

In some embodiments, the supporting element270may include first patterns270A extending in a first direction DR1and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2. Accordingly, the first patterns270A may prevent the display panel220from being bent in the first direction DR1.

In some embodiments, the supporting element270may further include second patterns extending in a second direction DR2crossing the first direction DR1and arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the first direction DR1. The second patterns may be arranged to cross the first patterns270A.

Referring toFIGS.5A and5C, the display device1000may further include a supporting element270disposed on a lower surface of the protective element210in the front area. The supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the protective element210even in the side area (for example, first side area SA1ofFIG.1A). For instance, the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the second part212.

In some embodiments, the supporting element270disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210may include a third patterns270B extending in the second direction DR2and arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the first direction DR1. The supporting element270disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210in the side area may serve to prevent formation of an empty space (for example, a bubble) between the second display part222and the adhesive layer240.

According to some embodiments, the supporting element270disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210in the side area may further include fourth patterns extending in the first direction DR1and arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the second direction DR2. The fourth patterns may be arranged to cross the third patterns270B.

A separation distance between the third patterns270B adjacent to each other may be different from a separation distance between the first patterns270A adjacent to each other. For example, the separation distance between the third patterns270B adjacent to each other may be greater than the separation distance between the first patterns270A adjacent to each other. For instance, the separation distance between the third patterns270B adjacent to each other may be smaller than the separation distance between the first patterns270A adjacent to each other.

FIGS.6A,6B, and6Care diagrams illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.6A, the display panel220may include a display area DA and a non-display area NA. The display area DA and the non-display area NA may be substantially the same as the display area DA and the non-display area NA described with reference toFIG.1A. The non-display area NA may include a pad area PDA and a bending area BA positioned between the display area DA and the pad area PDA.

The display panel220may be bent based on a bending axis fx in the bending area BA. InFIG.6A, a state in which the display panel220is not bent is illustrated by a solid line, and a state in which the display panel220is bent is illustrated by a dotted line. In the bending area BA, a wiring electrically connecting a driving circuit in the pad area PDA and the display unit P in the display area DA may be disposed on the display panel220.

The display panel220may include the driving circuit in the pad area PDA. For example, in the pad area PDA, the driving circuit for providing an electric signal for driving the display unit P may be disposed on an upper surface of the display panel.

Referring toFIG.6B,FIG.6Bmay be a cross-sectional view taken along sectional line ofFIG.6Aaccording to an embodiment.FIG.6Bmay illustrate the state in which the display panel220is not bent.

In the display area DA, the protective element210may be disposed under the display panel220. In some embodiments, a supporting element270may be disposed under the protective element210. The supporting element270may be substantially same as the supporting element described with reference toFIGS.5A,5B, and5C.

In the bending area BA, the protective element210may not be disposed under the display panel220. Optionally, in the bending area BA, the protective element210may be disposed under the display panel220.

In the pad area PDA, a pad protective element410may be disposed under the display panel220. The pad protective element410may protect a lower surface of the display panel220. The pad protective element410may include a cured resin. For instance, the pad protective element410may include an acrylic resin or an epoxy resin. The pad protective element410may be formed via a printing method.

A pad supporting element420may be disposed under the pad protective element410. The pad supporting element420may support the display panel220in the pad area PDA, and may prevent deformation of the display panel220. A Young's modulus of the pad supporting element420may be larger than a Young's modulus of the pad protective element410.

Referring toFIG.6C,FIG.6Cmay be a plan view illustrating the pad supporting element420disposed under the pad protective element410. The pad supporting element420may be disposed to form a pattern.

In some embodiments, the pad supporting element420may include first patterns421extending in a first direction DR1and arranged to be spaced apart from each other, and second patterns422extending in a second direction DR2crossing the first direction DR1and arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The first and second patterns421and422may be formed via a printing method. Accordingly, a density of each of the first and second patterns421and422may be adjusted. For example, when a separation distance between the first patterns421is relatively small, the density of the first patterns421may be relatively increased.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.7, a display device1000may include a window250, a display panel220, and a protective element210attached to a lower surface of the display panel220. The display device1000may include a front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A), a side areas (for example, first and second side areas SA1and SA2ofFIG.1A) located around the front area, and a corner area (for example, corner area CA ofFIG.1A) located between two adjacent side areas among the side areas.

The window250may transmit light emitted from the display panel220. The window250may include a first surface251in (or overlapping with) the front area, and second and third surfaces252and253in (or overlapping with) the side areas. The window250may include a fourth surface254in (or overlapping with) the corner area. The first surface251may be a flat surface, and each of the second, third, and fourth surfaces252,253, and254may be a curved surface.

The display panel220may be disposed under the window250. The display panel220may include a plurality of display units P, and each of the plurality of display units P may emit light. When the display panel220is disposed under the window250, the display panel220may have a flat surface in the front area, and may have a curved surface in the side and corner areas. For example, when the display panel220is disposed under the window250, a first display part221of the display panel220may have a flat surface, and second and third display parts222and223of the display panel220may have a curved surface. A fourth display part224of the display panel220may have a curved surface. The second display part222of the display panel220may be disposed under the second surface252, and the third display part223of the display panel220may be disposed under the third surface253. The fourth display part224of the display panel220may be disposed under the fourth surface254.

The display panel220may include a groove225in the corner area. The groove225may have a shape recessed into the display panel220. The protective element210may be filled in the groove225.

The protective element210may be disposed under the display panel220. The protective element210may protect a lower surface of the display panel220. The protective element210may include a first part211disposed under the first display part221, a second part212disposed under the second display part222, a third part213disposed under the third display part223, and a fourth part214disposed under the fourth display part224. A thickness of the protective element210may not be constant in one or more of (e.g., each of) the first part211, the second part212, the third part213, and the fourth part214.

FIGS.8A and8Bare diagrams illustrating a groove included in the display device according to some embodiments.

InFIGS.8A and8B, although the display panel220having only one groove225in the corner area is illustrated, the number of the groove225is not limited thereto. For example, there may be a plurality of grooves225in the corner area.

Referring toFIGS.8A and8B, the protective element210may be attached to a lower surface of the display panel220. The fourth display part224of the display panel220may include the groove225. For instance, the display panel220may include a groove225in the corner area (for example, corner area CA ofFIG.1A). The groove225may have a shape recessed into the display panel220. The protective element210may be filled in the groove225. In some embodiments, an inner space of the groove225may be completely filled with the protective element210.

In the absence of the groove225, when the display panel220is attached to the window250, buckling may occur in the corner area. For instance, the display panel220may be deformed in the corner area, and the display quality of the display device1000may be deteriorated.

The protective element210filling the groove225may be stretched and/or contracted. Accordingly, when the display panel220is attached to the window250, the protective element210filled in the groove225may contract, and the display panel220may have a curved surface in the corner area.

When the inner space of the groove225is filled with the protective element210, when the display panel220is attached to the window250, wrinkling may not occur in the corner area. When the inner space of the groove225is not filled with the protective element210, when the display panel220is attached to the window250, wrinkling may occur in the corner area.

In some embodiments, a Young's modulus of the protective element210may be smaller than a Young's modulus of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). For example, the Young's modulus of the protective element210may be about 250 MPa or less. When the Young's modulus of the protective element210is equal to or greater than the Young's modulus of PET, when the display panel220is attached to the window250, a crack may occur in the protective element210in the corner area.

FIG.9is a plan view illustrating a corner area of a display device according to an embodiment.

The display panel220may include a plurality of grooves225in the corner area (for example, corner area CA ofFIG.1A). The display panel220may include display units P emitting light. Each of the display units P may be the display unit P described with reference toFIG.3. The grooves225may not have display units P. For instance, the groove225may not emit light. Each of the grooves225may be filled with the protective element210.

The protective element210may include a cured resin. For example, the protective element210may include an acrylic resin or an epoxy resin. The protective element210may be formed via a printing method. For instance, the protective element210may be formed by applying the cured resin to a lower surface of the display panel220and then repeating the curing process. Accordingly, the protective element210may have various shapes.

FIG.10is a cross-sectional view taken along sectional line II-If ofFIG.9according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.10, the display panel220may include the plurality of grooves225. The display panel220may include the display units P. The grooves225may not include the display units P. The grooves225may be filled with the protective element210. For example, a side surface of the display panel224defined including the grooves225may contact the protective element210filled in the grooves225. In some embodiments, the grooves225may extend radially from a vertex of first display part221of the display panel220.

FIGS.11A and11Bare diagrams illustrating a protective element filled in the groove ofFIG.10according to some embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.11A and11B, the protective element210may be formed through repeated printing and curing processes. The protective element210may be formed via a printing method. The protective element210may include a cured resin. The cured resin may include an epoxy resin or an acrylic resin cured by light or heat.

Referring toFIG.11A, resin droplet210″ may be supplied to a lower surface of a display panel220in an uncured state through a printer900. The resin droplet210″ may be supplied to an area adjacent to resin210′.

The resin210′ may be applied to the lower surface of the display panel220to have a fixed shape according to a shape of the lower surface of the display panel220. For example, the resin210′ may be filled in a groove225. The resin210′ may receive energy910. The energy910may be light or heat, and may cure the resin210′.

Referring toFIG.11B, the resin210′ ofFIG.11Amay be cured to become the protective element210ofFIG.11B. In addition, the resin droplet210″ ofFIG.11Amay become the resin210′ ofFIG.11B, and may be applied to the lower surface of the display panel220to have a fixed shape. Accordingly, the protective element210may have various shapes (for example, the protective element210ofFIG.4A). In addition, the protective element210may be filled in the groove225.

FIGS.12A and12Bare plan views illustrating a display panel and a protective element included in a display device according to some embodiments.

Referring toFIG.12A, the display panel220may include the first display part221, the second display part222, the third display part223, and the fourth display part224. The display panel220may include the plurality of display units P such that the display panel220may display an image. The display panel220may include groove225in the corner area (for example, corner area CA ofFIG.1A). For instance, the fourth display part224of the display panel220may include the groove225. A protective element210may fill an inner space of the groove225. The groove225may not include the display unit P. The protective element210may be disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220.

Referring toFIG.12B, a supporting element270may be disposed under the display panel220.

In the front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A), the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the protective element210disposed on the lower surface of the display panel220. For instance, the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the first part211of the protective element210.

The supporting element270may include first patterns270A disposed on a lower surface of the protective element210in the first area. The first patterns270A may extend in the first direction DR1and may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the second direction DR2.

In the first side area (for example, first side area SA1ofFIG.1A), the supporting element270may be disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210disposed on the lower surface of the display panel220. For example, the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the second part212of the protective element210.

The supporting element270may include second patterns270B disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210. The second patterns270B may extend in the second direction DR2and may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the first direction DR1.

In the second side area (for example, second side area SA2ofFIG.1A), the supporting element270may be disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210disposed on the lower surface of the display panel220. For instance, the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the third part213of the protective element210.

The supporting element270may include third patterns270C disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210. The third patterns270C may extend in the first direction DR1and may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from one another in the second direction DR2.

In the corner area (for example, corner area CA ofFIG.1A), the supporting element270may be disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210disposed on the lower surface of the display panel220. For instance, the supporting element270may be disposed on a lower surface of the fourth part214of the protective element210.

The supporting element270may include fourth patterns270D disposed on the lower surface of the protective element210. The fourth patterns270D may extend in a direction away from the first part211of the protective element210in a plan view, such as direction crossing each of the first and second directions DR1and DR2, e.g., a radial direction from a vertex of the first part211of the protective element210. AlthoughFIG.12Billustrates an embodiment including four fourth patterns270D, the number of the fourth patterns270D is not limited thereto. For example, the supporting element270may include a plurality of fourth patterns270D in one or more of the fourth parts214of the protective element210.

A separation distance between the first patterns270A adjacent to each other may be different from a separation distance between the second patterns270B adjacent to each other. The separation distance between the first patterns270A adjacent to each other may be different from a separation distance between the third patterns270C. The separation distance between the second patterns270B adjacent to each other may be different from the separation distance between the third patterns270C.

FIG.13is a cross-sectional view taken along sectional line ofFIG.12Aaccording to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.13, a thickness of the protective element210disposed on a lower surface of a display panel220in the first side area (for example, first side area SA1of FIG.1A) may be greater than a thickness of the protective element210disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220in the front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A). For example, a thickness of the second part212of the protective element210may be greater than a thickness211T of the first part211of the protective element210.

The thickness of the second part212may not be constant. For example, the thickness of the second part212may be greatest at a center of the second part212and may decrease toward at least one edge of the second part212.

In some embodiments, a thickness of the protective element210disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220in the second side area (for example, second side area SA2ofFIG.1A) may be greater than the thickness211T of the protective element210disposed on the lower surface of the display panel220in the front area. For example, a thickness of the third part (213ofFIG.7) of the protective element210may be greater than the thickness211T of the first part211of the protective element210.

The thickness of the third part213may not be constant. The thickness of the third part213may be greatest at a center of the third part213and may decrease toward at least one edge of the third part213.

Accordingly, when the display panel220forms a curved surface in the side areas (for example, first and side areas SA1and SA2ofFIG.1A) and is attached to a window (250ofFIG.7), an empty space (for example, bubbles) may not be formed.

FIG.14is a cross-sectional view taken along sectional line IV-IV′ ofFIG.12Aaccording to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.14, a thickness of the protective element210disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220in the corner area (for example, corner area CA of FIG.1A) may be greater than a thickness of the protective element210disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220in the front area (for example, front area FA ofFIG.1A). For example, a thickness of the fourth part214of the protective element210may be greater than a thickness211T of the first part of the protective element210.

The thickness of the fourth part214may not be constant. For example, the thickness of the fourth part214may be greatest at a center of the fourth part214and may decrease toward at least one edge of the fourth part214.

Accordingly, when the display panel220forms a curved surface in the corner area and is attached to the window (250ofFIG.7), an empty space (for example, bubbles) may not be formed.

FIG.15is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.15, the display panel220may include a display area DA and a non-display area NA. The display area DA and the non-display area NA may be substantially the same as the display area DA and the non-display area NA described with reference toFIG.1A. The non-display area NA may include a pad area PDA and a bending area BA positioned between the display area DA and the pad area PDA.

The display panel220may be bent based on a bending axis fx in the bending area BA. InFIG.15, a state in which the display panel220is not bent is illustrated by a solid line, and a state in which the display panel220is bent is illustrated by a dotted line. In the bending area BA, a wire electrically connecting a driving circuit on the pad area PDA and the display unit P on the display area DA may be disposed on the display panel220.

The display panel220may include a driving circuit in the pad area PDA. For example, in the pad area PDA, the driving circuit for providing an electric signal for driving a display unit P may be disposed on an upper surface of the display panel220.

In some embodiments, a pad protective element (for example,410ofFIG.6B) may be disposed on a lower surface of the display panel220in the pad area PDA. The pad protective element may protect the lower surface of the display panel220in the pad area PDA. In an embodiment, a pad supporting element (for example,420ofFIG.6B) may be disposed under the pad protective element.

The pad protective element may include a cured resin. For instance, the pad protective element may include an acrylic resin or an epoxy resin. The pad protective element may be formed via a printing method.

The pad supporting element may be disposed under the pad protective element. The pad supporting element may support the display panel220in the pad area PDA to prevent deformation of the display panel220. A Young's modulus of the pad supporting element may be greater than a Young's modulus of the pad protective element.

The pad supporting element may be arranged to form a pattern. For example, the pad supporting element may be disposed to form substantially the same pattern as the pad supporting element described with reference toFIG.6C.

Although certain embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Accordingly, the inventive concepts are not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the accompanying claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.