CN117729812A

CN117729812A - Display device

Info

Publication number: CN117729812A
Application number: CN202311183308.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 卞珉盛; 朴商一; 安成国
Original assignee: Samsung Display Co Ltd
Current assignee: Samsung Display Co Ltd
Priority date: 2022-09-19
Filing date: 2023-09-14
Publication date: 2024-03-19
Also published as: CN221127830U

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes a display module, a window on the display module, and a protective layer on the window and including a first base layer, a second base layer on the first base layer, a base adhesive layer between the first base layer and the second base layer and including a silicon-based adhesive, and a surface coating layer on the second base layer, having a single film structure, and including a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material.

Description

Display device

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority and benefit from korean patent application No. 10-2022-018132 filed on 9 and 19 of 2022 and korean patent application No. 10-2023-0078190 filed on 6 and 20 of 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Technical Field

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a display device.

Background

Various display devices have been developed for multimedia devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, or game machines. The display device may include various functional layers to provide a user with a color image having excellent quality.

Recently, in order to realize various types of display devices such as a display device including a bending surface, a rollable display device, or a foldable display device, a thin display device is being studied. A thin display device can be realized by reducing the number of functional layers and utilizing functional layers having various functions.

In making the display device thinner, it is also important to ensure the impact resistance of the display device. Accordingly, a structure of a display device having excellent impact resistance and optical characteristics is being studied.

The above information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the invention and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

Disclosure of Invention

Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device having improved impact resistance and visibility.

According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a display device including a display module, a window on the display module, and a protective layer on the window and including a first base layer, a second base layer on the first base layer, a base adhesive layer between the first base layer and the second base layer and including a silicon-based adhesive, and a surface coating on the second base layer, having a single film structure, and including a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material.

In some embodiments, the base adhesive layer has a tensile modulus of about 0.1GPa to about 4.5 GPa.

In some embodiments, the base adhesive layer has a thickness of about 3 μm to about 4.5 μm.

In some embodiments, the edge portion of the base adhesive layer is further inward than each of the edge portion of the first base layer and the edge portion of the second base layer.

In some embodiments, the edge portion of the base adhesive layer is a first width inward than the edge portion of the first base layer, a second width inward than the edge portion of the second base layer, and each of the first width and the second width is about 450 μm to about 600 μm.

In some embodiments, the base adhesive layer has an area smaller than an area of each of the first base layer and the second base layer when viewed from a plan view.

In some embodiments, the first base layer and the second base layer each have a tensile modulus of about 3.5GPa to about 5.0 GPa.

In some embodiments, each of the first base layer and the second base layer has a thickness of about 35 μm to about 50 μm.

In some embodiments, the first base layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate.

In some embodiments, the second base layer is composed of a material different from the material of the first base layer.

In some embodiments, the protective layer further comprises an adhesive layer between the first base layer and the window, and the adhesive layer has a thickness of about 25 μm to about 70 μm.

In some embodiments, the protective layer, window, and display module fold and unfold relative to a folding axis.

In some embodiments, the window comprises a thin film glass.

In some embodiments, the window has a thickness of about 80 μm or less.

In some embodiments, the surface coating has a thickness of about 3 μm to about 10 μm.

In some embodiments, the surface coating has a surface contact angle of about 110 ° to about 120 °.

In some embodiments, each of the first base layer and the second base layer is an elongated film having a controlled optical axis, and each of a difference in tensile modulus of the first base layer and the second base layer over the first elongated axis and a difference in tensile modulus of the first base layer and the second base layer over the second elongated axis is from 0 to about 1.1GPa.

In some embodiments, the surface coating has a vickers hardness of about 40 or greater.

In some embodiments, the surface coating includes an anti-fingerprint material in an amount of 0wt% to about 10wt% relative to the total weight of the surface coating.

In some embodiments, the display device further includes a hard coating layer on at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the first base layer and the upper and lower surfaces of the second base layer.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 2A is a view showing a state in which the display device shown in fig. 1 is folded inward (in-folded) along a first folding axis;

fig. 2B is a view showing a state in which the display device shown in fig. 1 is folded out (out-folded) along a first folding axis;

fig. 3A is a view showing a state in which the display device shown in fig. 1 is folded inward along a second folding axis;

fig. 3B is a view showing a state in which the display device shown in fig. 1 is folded out along a second folding axis;

fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cut line I-I' shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 9A is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 9B is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 10C is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 10D is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 10E is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

fig. 10F is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

In order to facilitate a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the drawings, wherein like elements are designated by like reference numerals throughout. The drawings should not be construed as limiting the invention but are intended to be illustrative only.

Hereinafter, a display device according to some embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a display device DD according to some embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring to fig. 1, the display device DD may have a rectangular shape with a short side parallel to the first direction DR1 and a long side parallel to the second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1 when viewed in a plan view. However, the shape of the display device DD is not limited thereto, and the display device DD may be provided in various shapes. For example, the display device DD may have a rectangular shape with long sides parallel to the first direction DR1 and short sides parallel to the second direction DR2, or may have a square shape in which sides parallel to the first direction DR1 and sides parallel to the second direction DR2 have the same length, when viewed in a plan view.

The display device DD may be a foldable electronic device. The display device DD according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may be foldable with respect to a folding axis (e.g., the first folding axis FX1 or the second folding axis FX 2) extending in a predetermined direction. Hereinafter, a state in which the display device DD is folded with respect to a folding axis (e.g., the first folding axis FX1 or the second folding axis FX 2) is defined as a folded state, and a state in which the display device DD is unfolded with respect to the folding axis (e.g., the first folding axis FX1 or the second folding axis FX 2) is defined as an unfolded state. The folding axes (for example, the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding axis FX 2) are rotation axes that are dummy lines that occur when the display device DD is folded. For example, the folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding axis FX 2) may be formed of a structure included in the display device DD.

The fold axes (e.g., first fold axis FX1 and second fold axis FX 2) may extend in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR 2. In some embodiments, the folding axis extending in the second direction DR2 is defined as a first folding axis FX1, and the folding axis extending in the first direction DR1 is defined as a second folding axis FX2. The display device DD is foldable with respect to at least one of the first folding axis FX1 and the second folding axis FX2.

The display device DD according to some embodiments may be not only a large-sized display device such as a television and a monitor, but also a small-sized display device such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a car navigation system, and a game machine. This is merely an example, and the display device DD according to some embodiments may be used in another electronic device without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure.

As shown in fig. 1, the display device DD may display an image IM toward the third direction DR3 on a display surface IS parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR 2. The display surface IS on which the image IM IS displayed may correspond to the front surface of the display device DD.

The display surface IS of the display device DD may be divided into a plurality of areas. A display area DA and a non-display area NDA may be defined on the display surface IS of the display device DD. The display area DA may be an area in which the image IM is displayed, and the user observes the image IM through the display area DA. The display area DA may have a quadrangular shape. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA. Accordingly, the shape of the display area DA may be substantially defined by the non-display area NDA. However, this is shown as an example, and the non-display area NDA may be disposed adjacent to one side of the display area DA and may be omitted.

The non-display area NDA is an area adjacent to the display area DA and does not display the image IM. The bezel area of the display device DD may be defined at least by the non-display area NDA.

The display device DD according to the present disclosure may sense a user input TC applied from the outside. The user input TC may include various types of external inputs such as from a portion of the user's body, light, heat, or pressure. In fig. 1, the user input TC is shown as a touch from a user's hand applied to the front surface of the display device DD. However, this is shown as an example, and as described above, the user input TC may be supplied in various forms. In some examples, the display device DD may sense a user input TC applied to a side surface or a rear surface of the display device DD according to its structure; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

The display device DD may activate the display surface IS to display the image IM and synchronously sense the user input TC. In fig. 1, a region for sensing user input TC provided in a display region DA capable of displaying an image IM is shown. However, this IS shown as an example, and the area where the user input TC IS sensed IS provided in the non-display area NDA or in the entire area of the display surface IS.

Fig. 2A is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DD shown in fig. 1 is folded inward along the first folding axis FX1 (e.g., folded inward with respect to the first folding axis FX 1), and fig. 2B is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DD shown in fig. 1 is folded outward along the first folding axis FX1 (e.g., folded outward with respect to the first folding axis FX 1).

Referring to fig. 1 and 2A, the display device DD may be a foldable display device. The display device DD is foldable with respect to a folding axis extending in a set or predetermined direction (e.g. along the first folding axis FX1 or the second folding axis FX 2). Fig. 2A shows an exemplary display DD folded inwards with respect to a first folding axis FX1 extending in the second direction DR 2.

Depending on the form of operation, a plurality of zones may be defined in the display device DD. The plurality of zones may be divided into a folded zone FA1 and one or more unfolded zones (e.g., a first unfolded zone NFA1 and a second unfolded zone NFA 2). The fold area FA1 is defined between two non-fold areas (e.g., a first non-fold area NFA1 and a second non-fold area NFA 2).

The fold area FA1 is an area folded with respect to the first fold axis FX1, and is folded (e.g., substantially forms a curvature). Here, the first folding axis FX1 may extend in the second direction DR2, i.e., the long axis direction of the display device DD. The fold area FA1 is folded along the first fold axis FX1 (e.g., relative to the first fold axis FX 1) and is defined as an area extending in the second direction DR 2.

In some embodiments, the non-folded regions may include a first non-folded region NFA1 and a second non-folded region NFA2. The first non-folded region NFA1 is adjacent to one side of the folded region FA1 in the first direction DR1, and the second non-folded region NFA2 is adjacent to the other side of the folded region FA1 in the first direction DR 1.

The display device DD may be folded in or out. "inwardly folded" may refer to folding the display device DD such that the folded portions of the front surface of the display device DD face inwardly and toward each other, and "outwardly folded" refers to folding the display device DD such that the folded portions of the rear surface of the display device DD face inwardly and toward each other, while the folded portions of the front surface of the display device DD face outwardly and away from each other. The display device DD is folded such that the display surfaces of the first and second non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 face each other to define "inward folds", and the display device DD is folded such that the display surfaces of the first and second non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 face outward to define "outward folds".

The display device DD shown in fig. 2A IS foldable such that the display surface IS of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the display surface IS of the second non-folding area NFA2 face each other. The first non-folding area NFA1 is movable along a substantially clockwise path (e.g., clockwise rotation) with respect to the first folding axis FX1, and thus, the display device DD is foldable. In order for the display device DD to be folded inwardly such that the first and second non-folded regions NFA1 and NFA2 are aligned (e.g., completely overlap when viewed in plan view and extend in parallel along the first and second directions DR1 and DR 2), a first folding axis FX1 may be defined at the center of the display device DD in the first direction DR 1.

Referring to fig. 2B, the display device DD is foldable outwardly with respect to the first folding axis FX 1. The display device DD may display the image IM when the display surface IS of the first non-folding area NFA1 and the display surface IS of the second non-folding area NFA2 are exposed to the outside. In addition, the display surface IS of the folded area FA1 exposed to the outside may also display the image IM. As shown in fig. 1, the display device DD may display the image IM in an unfolded state. The first non-folding area NFA1, the second non-folding area NFA2, and the folding area FA1 may display images that supply independent information, or display portions of one image that supply one piece of information.

The display device DD can be manufactured to be capable of having both an inward folded state and an outward folded state, or to have any one of the inward folded state and the outward folded state.

In fig. 2A and 2B, a folding area FA1 is defined in the display device DD; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, according to some embodiments, a plurality of folding regions may be defined in the display device DD.

Fig. 3A is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DD shown in fig. 1 is folded inward along the second folding axis FX2 (e.g., folded inward with respect to the second folding axis FX 2), and fig. 3B is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DD shown in fig. 1 is folded outward along the second folding axis FX2 (e.g., folded outward with respect to the second folding axis FX 2).

Referring to fig. 3A and 3B, the display device DD may be folded in or out with respect to the second folding axis FX 2. The second folding axis FX2 may extend in the first direction DR1, i.e., the short axis direction of the display device DD.

Depending on the form of operation, a plurality of zones may be defined in the display device DD. The plurality of zones may be divided into a folded zone FA2 and one or more unfolded zones (e.g., a third unfolded zone NFA3 and a fourth unfolded zone NFA 4). The fold area FA2 is defined between two non-fold areas (e.g., a third non-fold area NFA3 and a fourth non-fold area NFA 4).

The fold area FA2 is an area folded with respect to the second fold axis FX2 and is folded (e.g., substantially forms a curvature). The fold area FA2 is folded along the second fold axis FX2 (e.g., relative to the second fold axis FX 2) and is defined as an area extending primarily in the first direction DR 1.

In some embodiments, the non-folded regions may include a third non-folded region NFA3 and a fourth non-folded region NFA4. The third non-folded region NFA3 may be adjacent to one side of the folded region FA2 in the second direction DR2, and the fourth non-folded region NFA4 may be adjacent to the other side of the folded region FA2 in the second direction DR 2.

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate that a single folding area FA2 is defined in the display device DD; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, according to some embodiments, a plurality of folding regions may be defined in the display device DD.

Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a display device DD according to some embodiments. Fig. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a display device according to some embodiments. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line I-I' shown in fig. 4.

Referring to fig. 4 to 6, a display device DD according to some embodiments may include a display module (e.g., a display panel) DM displaying an image, a window WM disposed on the display module DM, and a protective layer PL disposed on the window WM. The display module DM may form part of a display device DD (see, for example, fig. 1).

The display module DM may include a display panel DP and an input sensing unit ISP. The display panel DP according to some examples may be a light emitting display panel; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light emitting display panel or a quantum dot light emitting display panel. The light emitting layer of the organic light emitting display panel may include an organic light emitting material. The light emitting layer of the quantum dot light emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, and the like. Hereinafter, the display panel DP is described as an organic light emitting display panel.

The display panel DP may be a flexible display panel. Accordingly, the display panel DP may be entirely curled, or may be folded or unfolded with respect to the second folding axis FX 2.

The input sensing unit ISP may be directly disposed on the display panel DP. According to some embodiments, the input sensing unit ISP may be formed on the display panel DP through a single continuous process. That is, when the input sensing unit ISP is directly disposed on the display panel DP, an adhesive film is not disposed between the input sensing unit ISP and the display panel DP; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, an adhesive film may be disposed between the input sensing unit ISP and the display panel DP. In this instance, the input sensing unit ISP and the display panel DP are not manufactured through a single continuous process, but are manufactured through separate processes, and then the input sensing unit ISP may be fixed on the upper surface of the display panel DP through an adhesive film.

The display panel DP generates an image, and the input sensing unit ISP acquires coordinate information about user input (e.g., a touch event).

The window WM may be arranged on the display module DM. The window WM may comprise an optically transparent insulating material. Thus, the image generated by the display module DM is visible through the window WM to be easily observed by the user.

For example, window WM may comprise thin film glass or synthetic resin film. When the window WM is a thin film glass, the window WM may have a thickness of about 80 μm or less, for example, a thickness of about 30 μm, but the thickness of the window WM is not limited thereto.

When the window WM is a synthetic resin film, the window WM may include a Polyimide (PI) film or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film.

The window WM may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the window WM may include a plurality of synthetic resin films joined with an adhesive, or a film glass and a synthetic resin film joined with an adhesive. The window WM is made of a ductile material. Thus, window WM may be folded or unfolded with respect to second folding axis FX 2. That is, when the display module DM is changed in shape, the window WM may also be changed in shape accordingly.

The window WM transmits an image from the display module DM and absorbs external impact, thereby preventing the display module DM from being damaged or malfunctioning due to the external impact or substantially reducing the possibility thereof. The term "external impact" means an external force such as pressure, stress, or the like, which may cause defects in the display module DM.

The protective layer PL is arranged on the window WM. The protective layer PL may be a layer for protecting the window WM from external impact and preventing the window WM from being broken (e.g., crushed and scattered) when the window WM is damaged. The structure of the protective layer PL will be further described later with reference to fig. 7 and 8.

At least one functional layer may be arranged between the display module DM and the window WM. For example, in the display device DD according to some embodiments, an anti-reflection layer RPL blocking external light from being reflected may be included between the display module DM and the window WM. The anti-reflection layer RPL may prevent or substantially prevent elements constituting the display module DM from being externally observed due to reflection of external light incident through the front surface of the display device DD. The anti-reflection layer RPL may include a retarder (retarder) and a polarizer. The retarder may be a film type retarder or a liquid crystal coating type retarder, and may include a half wavelength (λ/2) retarder and/or a quarter wavelength (λ/4) retarder. The polarizer may also be a film type polarizer or a liquid crystal coated type polarizer. The film type polarizer may include an elongated synthetic resin film, and the liquid crystal coating type polarizer may include liquid crystals arranged in a predetermined arrangement. The retarder and polarizer may be configured as a single polarizing film. The display device DD according to some embodiments may further include a protective film disposed on top of or below the anti-reflection layer RPL.

The anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed on the input sensing unit ISP. That is, the anti-reflection layer RPL may be disposed between the input sensing unit ISP and the window WM. The anti-reflection layer RPL and the window WM may be bonded to each other by an adhesive film ADL. In some examples, an adhesive film that secures the anti-reflective layer RPL to the input sensing unit ISP may also be disposed between the input sensing unit ISP and the anti-reflective layer RPL.

As an example, the adhesive film ADL may include an optically transparent adhesive film (OCA). However, the adhesive film ADL is not limited thereto, and may include typical bonding agents or adhesives. For example, the adhesive film ADL may include an optically transparent resin (OCR) or a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA).

The display module DM may display an image in response to an electrical signal, and may transmit/receive information about external input. The display module DM may be defined as an active area AA and a peripheral area NAA. The active area AA may be defined as an area through which an image supplied by the display module DM is transmitted.

The peripheral area NAA is adjacent to the active area AA. For example, the peripheral region NAA may surround the active region AA (e.g., all sides of the active region AA). However, this is shown as an example, the peripheral area NAA may be defined in various shapes, and is not limited to any one embodiment. According to some embodiments, the active area AA of the display module DM may correspond to at least a portion of the display area DA.

As shown in fig. 4 and 5, the display device DD further includes a support plate SP that is disposed on a rear surface of the display module DM and supports the display module DM. The support plate SP may be a metal plate. The support plate SP may be a stainless steel plate. The support plate SP may have a greater strength and/or rigidity than the display module DM.

The support plates SP may include support plates (e.g., first support plate SP1 and second support plate SP 2) corresponding to the number of non-folded regions (e.g., third non-folded region NFA3 and fourth non-folded region NFA 4). For example, the support plate SP may include a first support plate SP1 and a second support plate SP2 disposed apart from the first support plate SP 1. The first and second support plates SP1 and SP2 may be arranged to correspond to the third and fourth non-folded areas NFA3 and NFA4. That is, the first support plate SP1 is arranged to correspond to the third non-folding area NFA3 of the display module DM, and the second support plate SP2 is arranged to correspond to the fourth non-folding area NFA4 of the display module DM. When the display module DM is folded about the second folding axis FX2, the first support plate SP1 and the second support plate SP2 may be disposed apart from each other in the second direction DR 2.

The first support plate SP1 and the second support plate SP2 may be spaced apart from each other with the folded area FA2 interposed therebetween. The first and second support plates SP1 and SP2 may partially overlap the folding area FA 2. That is, in the second direction DR2, a distance between the first support plate SP1 and the second support plate SP2 may be smaller than a width of the folded area FA 2.

The support plate SP may further include a connection module for connecting the first support plate SP1 and the second support plate SP 2. For example, the connection module may comprise an articulating module or an multi-joint module.

The support plate SP is shown to comprise two support plates, a first support plate SP1 and a second support plate SP2; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. That is, as the number of second folding axes FX2 increases, the support plate SP may include a plurality of support plates divided (e.g., separated or spaced apart) with respect to the second folding axes FX 2.

Fig. 4 shows a structure in which the support plate SP is divided into a first support plate SP1 and a second support plate SP2; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. That is, the support plate SP may be formed in the form of an integral plate arranged to correspond to the third and fourth non-folded areas NFA3 and NFA4 and the folded area FA 2. Here, the support plate SP may include a plurality of holes formed through the support plate SP formed in the folding area FA 2.

A buffer film may also be disposed between the display module DM and the support plate SP. The buffer film may comprise a polymeric material. The buffer film may be a layer for absorbing an impact applied from the outside. The buffer film may be bonded to the display module DM and the support plate SP through an adhesive film.

As shown in fig. 4 to 6, the sidewall WS1 of the window WM may be disposed more inward than the sidewall WS2 of the protective layer PL. The term "disposed more inward" may mean that one object is closer to the active area AA than another comparison object. That is, the sidewall WS1 of the window WM may not protrude more outward than the sidewall WS2 of the protection layer PL. Accordingly, the protective layer PL may block or substantially prevent external impact from being transmitted to the sidewall WS1 of the window WM, and thus, the possibility of occurrence of cracks in the window WM may be reduced.

Here, the sidewall WS1 of the window WM may be disposed more inward than the sidewall WS2 of the protection layer PL by a first width W1. Here, the first width W1 may refer to a width in a direction parallel to the second direction DR 2. Further, the first width W1 may correspond to a distance between the sidewall WS1 of the window WM and the sidewall WS2 of the protection layer PL when viewed on a plane.

As the first width W1 becomes larger, the side wall WS2 of the protective layer PL protrudes more than the side wall WS1 of the window WM, and thus, the possibility of occurrence of cracks in the window WM may become lower.

Further, an adhesive film ADL is disposed on the rear surface of the window WM. The sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL may be disposed more inward than the sidewall WS2 of the protective layer PL. The term "disposed more inward" may mean that one object is closer to the active area AA than another comparison object. In particular, the sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL may protrude less than the sidewall WS1 of the window WM.

Here, the sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL may be disposed more inward than the sidewall WS2 of the protective layer PL by the second width W2. The second width W2 may correspond to a distance between the sidewall WS2 of the protective layer PL and the sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL when viewed in plane. Here, the second width W2 may mean a width in a direction parallel to the second direction DR 2.

Further, the second width W2 may be greater than or equal to the first width W1. That is, when the second width W2 is greater than the first width W1, the sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL may be disposed more inward than the sidewall WS1 of the window WM. When the second width W2 is equal to the first width W1, the sidewall WS3 of the adhesive film ADL and the sidewall WS1 of the window WM may be disposed on the same line.

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a protective layer PL according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective layer (e.g., the surface coating and base layer shown in fig. 7) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 9A is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 9B is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a protective layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to fig. 7 and 8, the protective layer PL may include a first base layer BS1, a base adhesive layer P-ADL, a second base layer BS2, and a surface coating SCL. The protective layer PL according to some embodiments further comprises an adhesive layer AL.

The first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may each include a base material BL. Fig. 8 exemplarily shows only the second base layer BS2, but the description of the second base layer BS2 may be similarly applied to the first base layer BS1. The base material BL may include phenylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyamide (PAI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polycarbonate (PC), thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), and/or the like. Meanwhile, the base material BL included in the first base layer BS1 and the base material BL included in the second base layer BS2 may be different from each other. For example, the base material BL of the first base layer BS1 may be polyethylene terephthalate, and the base material BL of the second base layer BS2 may be thermoplastic polyurethane or polyimide. However, this is merely an example and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The base material BL included in the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may be the same as polyethylene terephthalate.

The first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may further include an ultraviolet blocking material UVCL added to the base material BL. In some embodiments, the uv blocking material UVCL may include inorganic chemical materials, such as zinc oxide (ZnO) and/or titanium oxide (TiO ₂ ). The uv blocking material UVCL may function to reflect or scatter uv light. Since the ultraviolet blocking material UVCL is included in the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2, the protective layer PL may have an ultraviolet blocking function. As an example, the protective layer PL may transmit less than about 20% of ultraviolet rays having a wavelength of about 380nm or less. In particular, when the window WM includes a thin film glass, the ultraviolet blocking function of the window WM may be deteriorated (e.g., the ability of the window WM to block ultraviolet rays may be reduced). To overcome this effect, an ultraviolet blocking material is included in the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2, thereby enabling the protective layer PL to perform an ultraviolet blocking function.

The thickness T1 of the first base layer BS1 and the thickness T3 of the second base layer BS2 may each be about 35 μm to about 50 μm. The thickness T1 of the first base layer BS1 and the thickness T3 of the second base layer BS2 may be the same as or different from each other. When the thickness T1 of the first base layer BS1 or the thickness T3 of the second base layer BS2 is less than about 35 μm, the protective layer PL may not have sufficient impact resistance. Further, when the thickness T1 of the first base layer BS1 or the thickness T3 of the second base layer BS2 is greater than about 50 μm, the protective layer PL is too thick, so that the folding characteristics of the display device DD (for example, see fig. 1) including the protective layer PL may be deteriorated (for example, the ability of the protective layer PL to fold or bend may be reduced).

The tensile modulus of the first base layer BS1 and the tensile modulus of the second base layer BS2 may each be about 3.5GPa to about 5.0GPa. The tensile modulus of the first base layer BS1 and the tensile modulus of the second base layer BS2 may be the same or different from each other. When the tensile modulus of the first base layer BS1 or the tensile modulus of the second base layer BS2 is less than about 3.5GPa, the protective layer PL may not have sufficient impact resistance. When the tensile modulus of the first base layer BS1 or the tensile modulus of the second base layer BS2 is greater than about 5.0GPa, the folding characteristics of the display device DD (see fig. 1, for example) including the protective layer PL may be deteriorated (for example, the ability of the protective layer PL to bend or fold may be reduced).

The first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may each be an elongated film having a controlled optical axis. The first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may each have a difference between a tensile modulus on the first elongated shaft and a tensile modulus on the second elongated shaft of about 1.1GPa or less. When the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 each have a difference between the tensile modulus along the first elongation axis and the tensile modulus along the second elongation axis of greater than about 1.1GPa, the shrinkage deformation of the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may increase.

The base adhesive layer P-ADL may be disposed between the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2. The base adhesive layer P-ADL may join the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2. The base adhesive layer P-ADL may include a silicon-based adhesive. However, this is merely an example, and the material of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is not limited thereto.

The base adhesive layer P-ADL may have a tensile modulus of about 0.1GPa to about 4.5 GPa. When the tensile modulus of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is less than or equal to about 0.1GPa, the base adhesive layer P-ADL may not join the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2. When the tensile modulus of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is greater than about 4.5GPa, the folding characteristics of the protective layer PL may deteriorate (e.g., the ability of the protective layer PL to bend or fold may be reduced).

[ Table 1 ]

Thickness of base adhesive layer (μm)	1	2	3	4	4.5	5
							Adhesion (gf/inch)	33	400	570	648	722	397

The base adhesive layer P-ADL may have a thickness T2 of about 3 μm to about 4.5 μm. Similar to the following, the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL may be determined in consideration of the adhesiveness of the base adhesive layer P-ADL, the impact resistance of the protective layer PL, and the folding characteristics.

Referring to table 1, it can be seen that when the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is equal to or greater than about 2 μm, the adhesiveness of the base adhesive layer P-ADL has a significant value corresponding to about 10 times the value of the adhesiveness of the base adhesive layer P-ADL when the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is about 1 μm, and the base adhesive layer P-ADL has a tendency to have greater adhesiveness as the base adhesive layer P-ADL becomes thicker. However, it can be seen that when the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is greater than about 4.5 μm, the adhesion is rather lowered. That is, it can be seen that the adhesiveness of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is remarkable in the range in which the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is about 2 μm to about 5 μm, but is rather lowered in the range equal to or greater than about 4.5 μm. Accordingly, an appropriate range of the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL corresponds to about 2 μm to about 4.5 μm in consideration of the adhesiveness of the base adhesive layer P-ADL.

When the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is less than about 3 μm, the protective layer PL may not have sufficient impact resistance. When the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is greater than about 5 μm, the folding characteristics of the protective layer PL may be deteriorated (for example, the ability of the protective layer PL to fold or bend may be reduced).

Therefore, it can be seen that when the thickness T2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL is about 3 μm to about 4.5 μm, there is a significant effect in the adhesion of the base adhesive layer P-ADL and the impact resistance and folding characteristics of the protective layer PL.

The edge portion E2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL may be disposed further inward than the edge portion E1 of the first base layer BS1 and the edge portion E3 of the second base layer BS 2. Here, the term "disposed more inward" means that one object is disposed relatively closer to or more adjacent to the active area AA (see, for example, fig. 1). The edge portion E2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL may be disposed further inward than the edge portion E1 of the first base layer BS1 by a first width W4 (e.g., the first width W4 may be inserted with respect to the edge portion E1 of the first base layer BS 1). The edge portion E2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL may be disposed further inward than the edge portion E3 of the second base layer BS2 by a second width W5 (e.g., the second width W5 may be inserted with respect to the edge portion E3 of the second base layer BS 2).

Since the edge portion E2 of the base adhesive layer P-ADL may be disposed further inward than the edge portion E1 of the first base layer BS1 and the edge portion E3 of the second base layer BS2 (e.g., inserted with respect to the edge portion E1 of the first base layer BS1 and the edge portion E3 of the second base layer BS 2), the impact resistance of the protective layer PL may be increased. The first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 may each include a portion that does not overlap the base adhesive layer P-ADL. The portion of each of the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2, which does not overlap the base adhesive layer P-ADL, may perform a function of absorbing external impact. The portion of each of the first and second base layers BS1 and BS2 that does not overlap the base adhesive layer P-ADL may consume (e.g., absorb) energy generated by external impact through vibration, thereby reducing the amount of external impact transferred to the other layer.

The first width W4 and the second width W5 may each be about 450 μm to about 600 μm. The first width W4 and the second width W5 may be the same or different from each other. When the first width W4 or the second width W5 is less than about 450 μm, the base adhesive layer P-ADL may leak out during a folding operation of the display device DD (see, e.g., fig. 1). When the first width W4 or the second width W5 is greater than about 600 μm, foreign substances may enter the space between the first base layer BS1, the second base layer BS2, and the base adhesive layer P-ADL, thereby adversely affecting the reliability of the display device DD (see, e.g., fig. 1).

Since the protective layer PL according to some embodiments includes the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 joined by the base adhesive layer P-ADL, the display device DD can easily control its thickness and has improved impact resistance compared to a case in which the protective layer includes a single base layer. The impact transferred from the outside is sequentially transferred to the second base layer BS2, the first base layer BS1, and the window WM, and then dispersed while passing through the first base layer BS1 and the second base layer BS2 of the protection layer PL. Therefore, the shock transmitted from the outside to the window WM can be reduced.

Referring to fig. 9A and 9B, the base adhesive layer P-ADL may have an area smaller than that of the first base layer BS1 and an area smaller than that of the second base layer BS2 when viewed on a plane (e.g., when viewed in a plan view).

The surface coating SCL may comprise a hard coating material HC and an anti-fingerprint material AF added to the hard coating material HC. The surface coating SCL has a single film structure. That is, the surface coating SCL comprises a single layer comprising a hard coating material HC and an anti-fingerprint material AF. The hard coating material HC may include a material having a high strength of pencil hardness F or more. As an example, the hard coating material HC may include a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, an acrylic-based resin, and/or the like. The surface coating SCL may have a vickers hardness of about 40 or greater.

The silicone resin may include inorganic particles surface treated with silsesquioxanes, silicone compounds, and silanes. The silsesquioxane may be a ladder silsesquioxane. The silsesquioxane may be included in an amount of about 30wt% to about 60wt% relative to the total weight of the hard coating material HC. When the silsesquioxane is included in an amount of less than about 30wt%, the flexibility of the surface coating SCL according to some examples may not improve. When the silsesquioxane is included in an amount greater than about 60wt%, the surface hardness of the surface coating SCL according to some examples may deteriorate (e.g., decrease).

The silicone compound may have at least one acrylate functional group. For example, the silicone compound may have an acrylate group as a terminal group. For example, the silicone compound may be a silicone polymer or a silicone oligomer having an acrylate group as an end group. In some embodiments, the silicone compound may be supplied as a polymer integrally formed with the silsesquioxane.

The silicone compound may be included in an amount of about 10wt% to about 40wt% relative to the total weight of the hard coat material HC. When the amount of the siloxane compound is less than about 10wt%, the strength and surface hardness of the surface coating SCL may deteriorate (e.g., decrease). When the amount of siloxane is greater than about 40wt%, brittleness of the surface coating SCL may increase, so that flexibility of the display device DD may be deteriorated (e.g., reduced), and a possibility of occurrence of cracks during bending may increase.

The hard coating material HC according to some embodiments includes surface treated inorganic particles. The surface-treated inorganic particles may be inorganic particles surface-treated with silane. In some embodiments, the inorganic particles surface-treated with a silane may be inorganic particles surface-treated with a silane coupling agent. For example, the average size of the inorganic particles is from about 10nm to about 50nm. The average size of the inorganic particles may represent the average diameter of the inorganic particles. For example, the average diameter of the inorganic particles may be from about 10nm to about 30nm.

In some embodiments, when the average size of the inorganic particles is greater than about 50nm, the optical transparency of the surface coating SCL may be degraded (e.g., reduced). Furthermore, when the average size of the inorganic particles is less than about 10nm, the effect of improving the surface hardness of the surface coating SCL may be insignificant.

The inorganic particles may be SiO ₂ 、TiO ₂ 、Al ₂ O ₃ 、ZrO ₂ 、ZnO、AlN、Si ₃ N ₄ Or a combination thereof. That is, the inorganic particles may include SiO ₂ 、TiO ₂ 、Al ₂ O ₃ 、ZrO ₂ ZnO, alN or Si ₃ N ₄ At least one of them. The hard coating material HC according to some examples may include SiO surface treated with silane ₂ TiO surface treated with silane ₂ Surface-treated Al with silane ₂ O ₃ ZrO surface-treated with silane ₂ ZnO surface-treated with silane, alN surface-treated with silane, si surface-treated with silane ₃ N ₄ Or mixtures thereof.

The hard coating material HC according to some embodiments includes about 10wt% to about 30wt% of the inorganic particles surface-treated with silane, relative to the total weight thereof. When the content of the inorganic particles is less than about 10wt%, the surface hardness and strength of the surface coating SCL may be deteriorated (e.g., reduced). When the content of the inorganic particles is more than about 30wt%, compatibility (compatibility) of the inorganic particles may be deteriorated (e.g., reduced).

The epoxy resin or the acrylic-based resin is a monomer or oligomer including at least one of an epoxy group, an oxetane group, an acrylate group, a methacrylate group, a urethane acrylate group, or an Ethylene Oxide (EO) addition acrylate group, and may have flexibility. For example, the epoxy resin may be at least one selected from the group consisting of a glycidyl type epoxy resin, an alicyclic epoxy resin, and an oxetanyl resin.

The glycidyl type epoxy resin may be bisphenol a type epoxy resin, bisphenol F type epoxy resin, bisphenol S type epoxy resin, naphthalene type epoxy resin or hydrogenated substance thereof, epoxy resin having dicyclopentadiene skeleton, epoxy resin having triglycidyl isocyanurate skeleton, epoxy resin having kaoly skeleton, and epoxy resin having polysiloxane structure.

The alicyclic epoxy resin may be 3, 4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl-3 ',4' -epoxycyclohexane carboxylate, 1,2,8,9-diepoxycitrate, an epoxy resin having ester bonds of 3, 4-epoxycyclohexylmethanol and 3, 4-epoxycyclohexane carboxylate at both ends of epsilon-caprolactone oligomer, respectively, and an epoxy resin having a hydrogenated bisphenol a skeleton.

The oxetanyl resin may be an oxetane resin having a hydroxyl structure or an oxetane resin having a methoxymethyl benzene structure.

The acrylic-based resin is a monomer or oligomer including at least one selected from the group consisting of an acrylate group, a methacrylate group, a urethane acrylate group, and an Ethylene Oxide (EO) addition acrylate group.

For example, the acrylic resin is bisphenol-A ethylene oxide diacrylate, bisphenol-A ethylene oxide dimethacrylate, bisphenol-A ethoxy diacrylate, bisphenol-A polyethoxy diacrylate, bisphenol-A diacrylate, bisphenol-S diacrylate, dicyclopentadienyl diacrylate, pentaerythritol triacrylate, tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate triacrylate, pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, bisphenol-A dimethacrylate, bisphenol-S dimethacrylate, dicyclopentadienyl dimethacrylate, pentaerythritol trimethacrylate, tris (2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate trimethacrylate, pentaerythritol tetramethacrylate, or the like.

The anti-fingerprint material AF may comprise a water-repellent material or an oil-repellent material to improve the stain resistance of the surface coating SCL. As an example, the anti-fingerprint material AF may be an inorganic material including a fluorine-based material. The fluorine-based material may include Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or amorphous fluorine (teflon AF, perfluorinated cyclic polymer).

The surface coating SCL may have a surface contact angle of about 110 ° to about 120 ° due to the anti-fingerprint material AF. The surface contact angle may vary depending on the weight ratio of the anti-fingerprint material AF to the surface coating SCL. For example, the weight percent of the anti-fingerprint material AF may be greater than 0wt% and less than or equal to about 10wt% relative to the total weight of the surface coating SCL. When the weight percentage of the anti-fingerprint material AF is more than about 10wt%, the surface hardness of the surface coating SCL may deteriorate.

The surface coating SCL may have a thickness T4 of about 3 μm to about 10 μm. In particular, the surface coating SCL may have a thickness T4 of about 4 μm to about 6 μm; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. When the surface coating SCL has a thickness T4 of greater than about 10 μm, its flexibility may deteriorate (e.g., decrease). When the surface coating SCL has a thickness T4 of less than about 3 μm, the surface hardness of the surface coating SCL may deteriorate (e.g., decrease).

The adhesive layer AL may be disposed under the first base layer BS 1. The adhesive layer AL may be disposed between the first base layer BS1 and the window WM (see, e.g., fig. 5). The adhesive layer AL may include a pressure sensitive adhesive material; however, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The adhesive layer AL may further include an optically transparent adhesive resin. The adhesive layer AL may have a thickness T5 of about 25 μm to about 70 μm. When the adhesive layer AL has a thickness T5 of less than about 25 μm, the protective layer PL may not have sufficient impact resistance. When the adhesive layer AL has a thickness T5 of greater than about 70 μm, the folding characteristics of the display device DD (see fig. 1, for example) may be deteriorated (for example, the ability of the display device DD to fold or bend may be reduced).

Further, the protective layer PL may have a total light transmittance of about 90% or more, and may have a haze value of about 1% or less. When the haze value is greater than about 1%, the light transmittance of the protective layer PL may be deteriorated (e.g., reduced).

Fig. 10A-10F are each a cross-sectional view of a protective layer according to some embodiments. The same contents as those described with reference to fig. 1 to 9B with respect to the protective layer may not be repeated, and differences may be mainly described below.

Referring to fig. 10A to 10F, the protective layers PL-1 to PL-6 according to some embodiments include at least one hard coat layer (e.g., first to fourth hard coat layers HC1 to HC 4). In the protective layers PL-1 to PL-6 according to some embodiments, the hard coating layers (e.g., the first hard coating layer HC1 to the fourth hard coating layer HC 4) may increase the impact resistance of the protective layers PL-1 to PL-6. The at least one hard coat layer (e.g., the first to fourth hard coat layers HC1 to HC 4) may include a hard coat material. The hard coating material may include a material having a high strength of pencil hardness F or more. By way of example, the hard coating material may include a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, an acrylic-based resin, and/or the like. The same description regarding the hard coat layer HC (see, e.g., fig. 8) included in the surface coat layer SCL (see, e.g., fig. 8) is applicable to the hard coat material.

Referring to fig. 10A, the protective layer PL-1 according to some embodiments further includes a first hard coat layer HC1 disposed between the second base layer BS2 and the base adhesive layer P-ADL. Referring to fig. 10B, the protective layer PL-2 according to some embodiments further includes a second hard coat layer HC2 disposed between the second base layer BS2 and the surface coating layer SCL. Referring to fig. 10C, the protective layer PL-3 according to some embodiments further includes a first hard coat layer HC1 disposed between the second base layer BS2 and the base adhesive layer P-ADL, and a second hard coat layer HC2 disposed between the second base layer BS2 and the surface coating SCL.

Referring to fig. 10D, the protective layer PL-4 according to some embodiments further includes a third hard coat layer HC3 disposed under the first base layer BS 1. Referring to fig. 10E, the protective layer PL-5 according to some embodiments further includes a fourth hard coat layer HC4 disposed between the first base layer BS1 and the base adhesive layer P-ADL. Referring to fig. 10F, the protective layer PL-6 according to some embodiments further includes a third hard coat layer HC3 disposed under the first base layer BS1 and a fourth hard coat layer HC4 disposed between the first base layer BS1 and the base adhesive layer P-ADL.

In some examples, a hard coating layer may be provided on at least one of an upper surface or a lower surface of the first base layer BS1, and a hard coating layer may be provided on at least one of an upper surface or a lower surface of the second base layer BS 2.

A display device according to some embodiments includes a protective layer including a first base layer, a second base layer disposed on the first base layer, a base adhesive layer disposed between the first base layer and the second base layer, and a surface coating layer disposed on the second base layer, having a single film structure, and including a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material. Accordingly, the display device according to some embodiments has improved impact resistance and folding characteristics. The display device according to some embodiments includes a protective layer including two base layers, thereby easily controlling the thickness thereof. Further, the display device according to some embodiments includes a protective layer including a surface coating layer having a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material, thereby having improved visibility.

The display device according to some embodiments includes a protective layer including two base layers and an adhesive layer, thereby exhibiting excellent impact resistance.

Further, the display device according to some embodiments includes a protective layer including a surface coating having a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material, thereby having improved visibility.

It will be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Accordingly, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept.

Spatially relative terms such as "under", "lower", "under", "above", "upper", and the like may be used herein for convenience of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "under" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms "below" and "under" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Further, it will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "between" two layers, the layer can be the only layer between the two layers, or one or more intervening layers may also be present.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the inventive concepts. 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. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "includes," "having," "includes," "including," "has," "having," "has," "including," "includes" and "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the expression "a and/or B" means A, B or a and B. Expressions such as "one or more of … …" and "at least one of … …" following a column of elements modify an entire column of elements, rather than modifying individual elements in the column. For example, the expressions "one or more of A, B and C", "at least one of A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one selected from the group consisting of A, B and C" mean only a, only B, only both of C, A and B, both of a and C, both of B and C, or all of A, B and C.

Further, when describing embodiments of the inventive concept, the use of "can" refers to "one or more embodiments of the inventive concept. Furthermore, the term "exemplary" is intended to indicate an example or illustration.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "adjacent" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or adjacent to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," "directly coupled to," or "directly adjacent to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present.

As used herein, the terms "substantial", "about" and similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as degree terms and are intended to account for inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, specific amounts or ranges recited in this written description or claims may also include inherent variations of measured or calculated values that one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize.

As used herein, the terms "use", "using" and "used" may be considered as synonymous with the terms "utilized", "utilizing" and "utilized", respectively.

While one or more embodiments may be implemented in different ways, the specific process sequence may be performed differently than described. For example, (i) the operations of the disclosed process are merely examples, and various additional operations not explicitly contemplated may be involved, and (ii) the chronological order of the operations may vary.

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 inventive concept belongs. It will be further understood that 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/or the present specification and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Furthermore, any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed with the same numerical precision within the recited range. For example, a range of "1.0 to 10.0" is intended to include all subranges between the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0 (and to include the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0), i.e., having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, applicants reserve the right to modify this specification (including the claims) to expressly enumerate any sub-ranges that fall within the ranges expressly recited herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification.

The display devices and/or any other related devices or components described herein according to embodiments of the invention may be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application specific integrated circuits), software, or suitable combination of software, firmware and hardware. For example, the various components of the device module may be formed on one Integrated Circuit (IC) chip or on a separate IC chip. In addition, various components of the device module may be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a Tape Carrier Package (TCP), a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), or formed on the same substrate. In addition, the various components of the device modules may be processes or threads running on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, executing computer program instructions, and interacting with other system components to perform the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in a memory that can be implemented in a computing device using standard memory devices, such as Random Access Memory (RAM), for example. The computer program instructions may also be stored in other non-transitory computer readable media, such as a CD-ROM, flash drive, or the like, for example. Moreover, those skilled in the art will recognize that the functionality of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or that the functionality of a particular computing device may be distributed over one or more other computing devices without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

Hereinabove, the present disclosure has been described with reference to some embodiments thereof, but it will be understood by those skilled in the art or the related arts that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure, which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising:

a display module;

a window located on the display module; and

a protective layer on the window, the protective layer comprising:

the first base layer is provided with a first base layer,

a second base layer, said second base layer being located on said first base layer,

a base adhesive layer located between the first base layer and the second base layer and comprising a silicon-based adhesive, an

A surface coating layer on the second base layer, having a single film structure, and including a hard coating material and an anti-fingerprint material.

2. The display device of claim 1, wherein the base adhesive layer has a tensile modulus of 0.1GPa to 4.5 GPa.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the base adhesive layer has a thickness of 3 μm to 4.5 μm.

4. The display device of claim 1, wherein an edge portion of the base adhesive layer is further inward than each of an edge portion of the first base layer and an edge portion of the second base layer.

5. The display device of claim 4, wherein the edge portion of the base adhesive layer is a first width inward of the edge portion of the first base layer and a second width inward of the edge portion of the second base layer, an

Wherein each of the first width and the second width is 450 μm to 600 μm.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the base adhesive layer has an area smaller than an area of each of the first base layer and the second base layer when viewed from a plan view.

7. The display device of claim 1, wherein the first base layer and the second base layer each have a tensile modulus of 3.5GPa to 5.0 GPa.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first base layer and the second base layer has a thickness of 35 μm to 50 μm.

9. The display device of claim 1, wherein the first base layer comprises polyethylene terephthalate.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein the second base layer is composed of a material different from that of the first base layer.

11. The display device of claim 1, wherein the protective layer further comprises an adhesive layer between the first base layer and the window, and

wherein the adhesive layer has a thickness of 25 μm to 70 μm.

12. The display device of claim 1, wherein the protective layer, the window, and the display module fold and unfold relative to a folding axis.

13. The display device of claim 12, wherein the window comprises a thin film glass.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein the window has a thickness of 80 μm or less.

15. The display device of claim 14, wherein the surface coating has a thickness of 3 μιη to 10 μιη.

16. The display device of claim 15, wherein the surface coating has a surface contact angle of 110 ° to 120 °.

17. The display device of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second base layers is an elongated film having a controlled optical axis, an

Wherein each of the difference in tensile modulus of the first base layer and the second base layer over a first elongation axis and the difference in tensile modulus of the first base layer and the second base layer over a second elongation axis is 0 to 1.1GPa.

18. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the surface coating layer has a vickers hardness of 40 or more.

19. The display device of claim 1, wherein the surface coating comprises the anti-fingerprint material in an amount of 0wt% to 10wt% relative to a total weight of the surface coating.

20. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a hard coat layer on at least one of upper and lower surfaces of the first base layer and upper and lower surfaces of the second base layer.