KR102371445B1 - Display device and flexible display device - Google Patents

Abstract

The display device includes a flexible display panel in which a first area, a second area, and a third area are sequentially defined along one direction, a generator disposed in the first area and selectively generating an electromagnetic field, and in the third area It includes an arranged acting part, and when the second region is folded so that the first region and the third region face each other, an attractive force may be generated between the generator and the acting part by the electromagnetic field generated by the generator. there is.

Description

Display devices and flexible display devices {DISPLAY DEVICE AND FLEXIBLE DISPLAY DEVICE}

The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a foldable display device.

Electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, notebook computers, navigation devices, and televisions that provide images include a display panel for displaying images.

In general, a thin and light flat panel display panel is widely used for the display panel, and the flat panel display panel includes a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light emitting display panel, a plasma display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, and the like.

Recently, a foldable display device that can be folded and carried and used when viewing an image is being developed. The foldable display device can implement a large size screen while being easy to carry.

An object of the present invention is to provide a foldable display device with improved usability.

A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a flexible display panel in which a first area, a second area, and a third area are sequentially defined along one direction, the generator disposed in the first area and selectively generating an electromagnetic field a portion; and an action portion disposed in the third region, wherein when the second region is folded and the first region and the third region face each other, the generator and the generator by an electromagnetic field generated by the generator An attractive force may occur between the acting parts.

It may further include a control unit for controlling the driving current provided to the generator.

The generator may include a wire through which the driving current flows.

The generator may include a coil through which the driving current flows.

The sensor may further include a sensor disposed in at least one of the first area and the third area, wherein the sensor may recognize whether the second area is folded.

The controller may receive a sensing signal from the sensor and control the driving current based on the sensing signal.

The flexible display panel may include a signal wire, and the generator may include the same material as the signal wire and be formed through the same process.

The working part may be selected from the group consisting of a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, a resin magnetic material, and combinations thereof.

The action part may include a material that generates an attractive force in response to the electromagnetic field generated by the generator.

The flexible display panel may further include a fourth region and a fifth region sequentially defined in the one direction after the first region, the second region, and the third region, and the fourth region may be a folding region. .

A flexible display device including a folding region according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a generator, an acting part spaced apart from the generator with the folding region interposed therebetween, and a controller controlling a driving current provided to the generator. Including, when the control unit provides the driving current to the generating unit, an electromagnetic field is generated in the generating unit, and an attractive force is generated between the generating unit and the working unit by the electromagnetic field, so that the folding area is folded. can keep

The generator may include a wire or a coil through which the driving current flows.

The display device further includes a sensor disposed adjacent to the generating unit or the acting unit, wherein the sensor outputs a sensing signal sensing whether the folding area is folded to the control unit, and the control unit responds to the sensing signal. Based on this, the driving current may be controlled.

The working part may be selected from the group consisting of a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, a resin magnetic material, and combinations thereof.

The foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention may maintain various folded states of the flexible display panel through the fold holding unit. Accordingly, the usability of the foldable display device is improved. Also, since the electromagnet unit and the magnetic unit may maintain various folded states using electromagnetic force, various folded states of the flexible display device are more stably maintained. Furthermore, since the electromagnet part can be formed in the manufacturing process of the flexible display panel, it can be easily formed.

1 is a plan view of a foldable display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a side view of the foldable display of FIG. 1 .
3 is a side view illustrating a state in which the flexible display panel shown in FIG. 1 is folded in one stage.
4 is a side view illustrating a state in which the flexible display panel shown in FIG. 1 is folded in two stages.
5 is a side view of a foldable display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a side view of a foldable display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a plan view of a foldable display device according to another exemplary embodiment.
8 is a side view of the foldable display shown in FIG. 7 .
9 is a side view illustrating a state in which the flexible display panel shown in FIG. 7 is folded in one stage.
10 is a side view illustrating a state in which the flexible display panel shown in FIG. 7 is folded in two stages.
11 is a plan view of a foldable display device according to another exemplary embodiment.

Since the present invention can have various changes and can have various forms, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the text. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to the specific disclosed form, it should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents and substitutes included in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In describing each figure, like reference numerals have been used for like elements. In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of the structures are enlarged than actual for clarity of the present invention. Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the present application, terms such as “comprise” or “have” are intended to designate that a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification exists, but one or more other features It is to be understood that it does not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Also, when a part of a layer, film, region, plate, etc. is said to be "on" another part, this includes not only the case where the other part is "directly on" but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part of a layer, film, region, plate, etc. is said to be "under" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "directly under" another part, but also a case where another part is in the middle.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a plan view of a foldable display device according to another embodiment, FIG. 2 is a side view of the foldable display device shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a state in which the foldable display device shown in FIG. 1 is folded in one stage. It is a side view, and FIG. 4 is a side view showing a state in which the foldable display device shown in FIG. 1 is folded in two stages.

1 to 4 , the foldable display device 1000 includes a flexible display panel 100 , a control board 200 , a folding holding unit, and a frame 500 .

The foldable display 1000 displays arbitrary visual information such as text, video, photo, and 2D or 3D image. Hereinafter, the arbitrary visual information is displayed as 'image'.

The flexible display panel 100 displays an image, and the type of the flexible display panel 100 is not particularly limited. For example, an organic light emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, etc. this can be used

The flexible display panel 100 includes a lower plate 140 and an upper plate 150 facing the lower plate 140 . A light control layer is provided between the upper plate 150 and the lower plate 140 . The upper plate 150 and the light control layer are provided to correspond to the display area DA, and the lower plate 140 is provided to correspond to the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. Each of the lower plate 140 and the upper plate 150 includes at least one electrode, applies an electric field to the light control layer, and controls the image by adjusting the electric field. The image is displayed on the upper side of the flexible display panel 100 through the upper plate 150 .

The control board 200 drives the flexible display panel 100 . The control board 200 may include, for example, a memory for driving the flexible display panel 100 , a processor, and an operating system. The control board 200 generates image data based on image information received from the outside. The flexible display panel 100 is driven through the image data and displays an image corresponding to the image data.

The flexible display panel 100 may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the flexible display panel 100 may have a rectangular plate-shaped structure having two pairs of sides that are parallel to each other and face each other. In this case, the flexible display panel 100 is provided to have a short side and a long side extending longer than the short side. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various shapes of the flexible display panel 100 may be provided. For example, the flexible display panel 100 may be provided in a square shape with all four sides having the same length. Hereinafter, a direction in which the long side extends is defined as a first direction D1 and a direction in which the short side extends is defined as a second direction D2.

All or at least a part of the flexible display panel 100 has flexibility. In this embodiment, the components constituting the flexible display panel 100 are made of a flexible material. For example, the flexible display panel 100 may be formed of any one of plastic, thin metal, and thin-glass. Accordingly, the flexible display panel 100 is folded by an external force.

Here, the term 'folding' means that the shape is not fixed, but can be deformed from the original shape to another shape. including drying.

In this embodiment, the flexible display panel 100 is folded in a folding area and not folded in a non-folding area. The folding area and the non-folding area are areas of the flexible display panel 100 for convenience of description. will define As described above, since the flexible display panel 100 has flexibility, it can be folded in various ways in response to an external force applied to the flexible display panel 100 , and the folding and non-folding regions correspond to the folding. can be defined in various ways.

In this embodiment, the non-folding area includes first to third non-folding areas 111 to 113 , and the folding area includes first and second folding areas 121 and 122 .

The first to third non-folding regions 111 to 113 are sequentially arranged in a third direction D3 opposite to the first direction D1 . The first folding area 121 is positioned between the first and second non-folding areas 111 and 112 , and the second folding area 122 includes the second and third non-folding areas 112 and 113 . ) is located between In this case, the display area DA extends along the first direction D1 and includes the first to third non-folding areas 111 to 113 and the first and second folding areas 121 and 122 . ) overlaps with

The first to third non-folding regions 111 to 113 may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the first to third non-folding regions 111 to 113 have a rectangular shape, and the first and second non-folding regions 111 and 112 have the same area. The third non-folding region 113 may have a smaller area than the first and second non-folding regions 111 and 112 .

The first and second folding areas 121 and 122 may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the first and second folding areas 121 and 122 have a rectangular shape elongated in the second direction D2.

The first and second folding areas 121 and 122 and the first to third non-folding areas 111 to 113 partially overlap the display area DA. Accordingly, each of the first and second folding areas 121 and 122 and the first to third non-folding areas 111 to 113 may display the image through the overlapping display area DA. The flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first and second folding areas 121 and 122 . The flexible display panel 100 may be folded in various ways, but in this embodiment, the first to third non-folding regions 111 to 113 are sequentially folded.

More specifically, the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first folding area 121 such that the first and second non-folding areas 111 and 112 face each other. Hereinafter, the folding of the flexible display panel 100 in the first folding area 121 is defined as single-stage folding. In the first-stage folded state, the lower surface of the flexible display panel 100 in the first non-folding area 111 faces the lower surface of the flexible display panel 100 in the second non-folding area 112 . In addition, the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the second folding area 122 such that the second and third non-folding areas 112 and 113 face each other. Hereinafter, the folding of the flexible display panel 100 in the second folding area 122 after the first-stage folding is defined as two-stage folding. In the double-folded state, a top surface of the flexible display panel 100 in the second non-folding area 112 faces a top surface of the flexible display panel 100 in the third non-folding area 113 .

The frame 500 is disposed below the flexible display panel 100 . The flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages corresponding to the frame 500 to be seated on the frame 500 . Accordingly, the frame 500 is formed such that the flexible display panel 100 is included in the frame 500 when viewed in a plan view. More specifically, when viewed in a plan view, the frame 500 has a rectangular shape corresponding to the flexible display panel 100 that is folded in two stages, and is thinner than an area of the flexible display panel 100 that is folded in two stages. are formed to have the same or larger area. The frame 500 is made of a hard material such as metal or plastic having high hardness.

Accordingly, the frame 500 is folded in two stages to protect the flexible display panel 100 seated on the frame 500 . In addition, the user can easily carry the flexible display panel 100 by folding the flexible display panel 100 into the frame 500 in two stages.

The frame 500 is sequentially arranged along the third direction D3 and includes a first surface 510 and a second surface 520 facing the lower surface of the flexible display panel 100 .

The third non-folding region 113 is fixed to the first surface 510 in various ways. For example, a bonding film such as OCA (Optically Clear Adhesive) is interposed between the first surface 510 and the third non-folding area 113 so that the bonding film is formed between the first surface 510 and the third non-folding area 113 . The third non-folding region 113 is joined. Alternatively, a structure for fastening to the first surface 510 may be formed under the third non-folding region 113 to be fixed.

The first surface 510 has the same shape as the third non-folding region 113 . In this embodiment, the first surface 510 may have the same rectangular shape as the third non-folding area 113 , and the area of the first surface 510 is the third non-folding area 113 . is substantially equal to the area of , or greater than the area of the third non-folding region 113 .

When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, a lower surface of the second non-folding area 112 faces the second surface 520 . The second surface 520 may be disposed above the first surface 510 . When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the second non-folding area 112 is located above the first non-folding area 111 due to the thickness of the flexible display panel 100 . . Correspondingly, by disposing the second surface 520 above the first surface 510 , the flexible display panel 100 can be more stably seated on the frame 500 .

When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages and seated on the frame 500 , the second non-folding area 112 faces the first and second surfaces 510 and 520 . In this case, when viewed in a plan view, the sum of the areas of the second surface 520 and the first surface 510 is equal to or greater than the area of the flexible display panel 100 that is folded in two stages. The control board 200 may be disposed on the frame 500 . The control board 200 may be electrically connected to the flexible display panel 100 by a flexible circuit board. The folding holding unit maintains the folded state of the flexible display panel 100 .

More specifically, since at least a portion of the flexible display panel 100 has flexibility as described above, if a specific external force is not applied, the flexible display panel 100 returns to an unfolded state by the restoring force of the flexible display panel 100 . Accordingly, the flexible display panel 100 cannot maintain the first-stage and the second-stage folded state. However, in this embodiment, since the foldable display 1000 overcomes the restoring force through the folding holding part, the first-stage and the second-stage folded state may be maintained.

The folding holding part includes first and second electromagnet parts and first and second magnetic parts.

The first magnetic part is disposed in the first non-folding area 111 and includes a first right magnetic part 310a and a first left magnetic part 310b. The first magnetic part is disposed on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA. More specifically, the first right magnetic part 310a is disposed in the non-display area NDA on the side of the fourth direction D4 opposite to the second direction D2, and the first left magnetic part 310b ) is disposed in the non-display area NDA on the side of the second direction D2.

The first right magnetic part 310a and the first left magnetic part 310b may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the first right magnetic part 310a and the first left magnetic part 310b may have a rectangular shape extending in the first direction D1 .

The second magnetic part is disposed in the first non-folding area 111 and includes a second right magnetic part 320a and a second left magnetic part 320b. The first magnetic part is disposed on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA, and is disposed to be spaced apart from the first magnetic part.

In this embodiment, the second magnetic part is spaced apart from the first magnetic part in the third direction D3. The second right magnetic part 320a is disposed in the non-display area NDA in the fourth direction D4 side with respect to the display area DA, and the second left magnetic part 320b is the display area DA. It is disposed in the non-display area NDA on the side of the second direction D2 with respect to the area DA. The second right magnetic part 320a and the second left magnetic part 320b may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the second right magnetic part 320a and the first left magnetic part 320b may have a rectangular shape extending in the first direction D1 .

The first electromagnet part is disposed in the second non-folding area 112 and includes a first right electromagnet part 210a and a first left electromagnet part 210b. The first electromagnet part is disposed on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA. The first right electromagnet part 210a is disposed in the non-display area NDA on the fourth direction D4 side with respect to the display area DA, and the first left electromagnet part 210b is the display area DA. It is disposed in the non-display area NDA on the side of the second direction D2 with respect to the area DA.

In addition, the first electromagnet part is disposed to face the first magnetic part when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first stage. More specifically, when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first stage, the first right electromagnet part 210a faces the first right magnetic part 310a up and down, and the first left electromagnet part 210b ) is opposite to the first left magnetic part 310b vertically.

The first right electromagnet part 210a and the first left electromagnet part 210b may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the first right electromagnet part 210a and the first left electromagnet part 210b correspond to the first right magnetic part 310a and the first left magnetic part 310b, respectively. It has a rectangular shape extending in the direction D1.

The second electromagnet unit is disposed on the second surface 520 of the frame 500 and includes a second right electromagnet unit 220a and a second left electromagnet unit 220b. The second right electromagnet part 220a is disposed on the fourth direction D4 side of the second surface 520 , and the second left electromagnet part 220b is disposed on the second surface 520 of the second surface 520 . It is arranged on the side of the two directions (D2).

In addition, the second electromagnet part is disposed to face the second magnetic part when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages. More specifically, when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the second right electromagnet part 220a vertically faces the second right magnetic part 320a, and the second left electromagnet part 220b ) is opposite to the second left magnetic part 320b vertically.

The second right electromagnet part 220a and the second left electromagnet part 220b may be provided in various shapes. In this embodiment, the second right electromagnet part 220a and the second left electromagnet part 220b correspond to the second right magnetic part 320a and the second left magnetic part 320b, respectively. It has a rectangular shape extending in the direction D1.

The first and second electromagnets include electromagnets. First and second driving currents are applied to the first and second electromagnets, respectively. The first and second electromagnet units are driven by the first and second driving currents, respectively. In this case, the first and second electromagnet units generate electromagnetic force in response to the first and second driving currents.

The first and second electromagnets may include wirings through which the first and second driving currents flow. The wiring may be made of, for example, metal. In this case, the wiring may be formed through at least some of the existing processes for forming the flexible display panel 100 . A conventional process for forming the flexible display panel 100 may include, for example, a thermal deposition process and a sputtering process. The first and second electromagnets may be formed in the form of wiring like the plurality of signal wirings, and may include a circuit made of a material capable of transmitting current. Accordingly, the first and second electromagnet units may be formed using at least some of the processes of forming the plurality of signal wirings.

The first and second magnetic parts include a magnetic material. Accordingly, the first and second magnetic units generate attractive or repulsive forces in response to an externally provided electromagnetic field or magnetic field. The first and second magnetic portions may be selected from the group consisting of, for example, a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, a resin magnetic material, and combinations thereof. Also, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first and second magnetic portions may be formed of electromagnets. The first and second magnetic portions may be formed through at least some of the existing processes for forming the flexible display panel 100 . can

In summary, when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first stage, the first electromagnet unit vertically faces the first magnetic unit. In this case, when the first driving current is applied to the first electromagnet unit and the first electromagnet unit generates an electromagnetic field, an attractive force is generated between the first electromagnet unit and the first magnetic unit by electromagnetic force. Accordingly, the first-stage folded state of the flexible display panel 100 is maintained. Accordingly, the electromagnet unit may be referred to as a generator generating an electromagnetic field, and the magnetic unit may be referred to as an action unit generating attractive force by electromagnetic force.

In addition, when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the second electromagnet part is the second magnet part in a state in which the first stage folded state is maintained by the first electromagnet part and the first magnetic part. Opposite up and down with the voice. In this case, when the second driving current is applied to the second electromagnet unit and the second electromagnet unit generates an electromagnetic field, an attractive force is generated between the second electromagnet unit and the second magnetic unit by electromagnetic force. Accordingly, the two-stage folded state of the foldable display device 1000 is maintained.

When the attractive force of the electric field is used, the driving of the light control layer driven by the electric field may be affected and noise may be generated during the driving. However, in the case of the magnetic field, the driving of the light control layer is not affected. Accordingly, driving noise of the flexible display panel 100 by the folding holding unit does not occur.

Furthermore, when the attractive force is formed by the magnetic material, the magnetic force generated in the magnetic material may decrease over time, so that the attractive force by the magnetic material may decrease. However, in this embodiment, since the attractive force is due to the electromagnetic force of the electromagnet, the attractive force may be kept constant and may be controlled according to circumstances.

Also, in an embodiment, since the electromagnet may be formed through at least a part of the manufacturing process of the flexible display panel 100 , the formation of the first and second electromagnet parts is simple and easy.

In the above, the embodiment has been described in which the second magnetic part is disposed in the first non-folding region 111, but the first and second electromagnet parts and the positions where the first and second magnetic parts are disposed are It can be implemented with various modifications.

For example, the second magnetic part may not be disposed in the first non-folding area 111 , but may be disposed in the second non-folding area 112 . In this case, the second magnetic part is disposed to vertically face the second electromagnet part when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages.

The foldable display 1000 may further include a sensor and an electromagnet controller. The sensor provides a sensing signal to the electromagnet control unit. The sensor includes a first sensor for recognizing whether the first-stage folding of the foldable display device 1000 and a second sensor for recognizing whether the second-stage folding is performed. The sensing signal includes a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal.

The first sensor includes a first right sensor 410a and a first left sensor 410b.

The first sensor is disposed on at least one of the opposite surfaces of the first and second non-folding regions 111 and 112 . In this embodiment, the first sensor is disposed in a portion of the second non-folding area 112 opposite to the first non-folding area 111 . More specifically, the first sensor is disposed adjacent to the first electromagnet unit on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA. Accordingly, the first right sensor 410a is disposed on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA in the fourth direction D4 side with respect to the display area DA, and the first The left sensor 410b is disposed on the lower plate 140 to correspond to the non-display area NDA in the second direction D2 side with respect to the display area DA.

The first sensor outputs a first sensing signal that may include an off-signal and an on-signal different from the off-signal in response to whether the first stage is folded. That is, when the flexible display panel 100 is fully unfolded, the first and second non-folding regions 111 and 112 do not face each other, and accordingly, the first sensor outputs the off-signal. When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first stage, the first and second non-folding regions 111 and 112 face each other, and accordingly, the first sensor outputs the on-signal.

The second sensor includes a second right sensor 420a and a first left sensor 420b.

The second sensor is disposed on at least one of the opposite surfaces of the second non-folding area 112 and the second surface 520 . In this embodiment, the second sensor is disposed on a portion of the second surface 520 opposite to the second non-folding area 112 . More specifically, the second sensor is disposed adjacent to the second electromagnet unit on the second surface 520 . Accordingly, the second right sensor 420a is disposed on the fourth direction D4 side of the second surface 520 , and the second left sensor 420b is located on the second surface 520 of the second surface 520 . It is arranged on the side of the two directions (D2). When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the second sensor outputs a second sensing signal in response to the two-stage folding.

The second sensor outputs a second sensing signal including the off-signal and the on-signal in response to whether the second stage is folded. That is, when the flexible display panel 100 is fully unfolded or the first stage is folded, the second non-folding area 112 and the second surface 520 do not face each other, and thus, the second sensor outputs the off-signal. When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the second non-folding area 112 and the second surface 520 face each other, and accordingly, the second sensor outputs the on-signal. do.

The sensor detects the presence or absence of an object approaching the sensor or an object existing in the vicinity without mechanical contact using the force of an electromagnetic field or infrared rays, at least one of a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, and a hook sensor may contain one. The proximity sensor has a longer lifespan than a contact type sensor, and its utility is also high. Examples of the proximity sensor include a photoelectric sensor, a high frequency oscillation type proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, and an infrared proximity sensor.

The electromagnet control unit (or control unit) controls the first and second driving currents. The electromagnet control unit may be disposed, for example, on the control board 200 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be formed on the flexible display panel 100 . For example, when an integrated circuit is formed in the flexible display panel 100 , the electromagnet control unit may be implemented by the integrated circuit. The electromagnet control unit receives the first and second sensing signals, and controls the first and second driving currents according to the first and second sensing signals. Accordingly, the first and second electromagnets may selectively generate an electromagnetic field.

For example, in a state in which the flexible display panel 100 is unfolded, the electromagnet control unit receives the off-signals from the first and second sensors, respectively. In this case, the electromagnet controller does not provide the first driving current to the first electromagnet and does not provide the second driving current to the second electromagnet. Accordingly, the first and second electromagnets are not driven.

When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in the first stage, the electromagnet control unit receives the on-signal from the first sensor and the off-signal from the second sensor. Thereafter, the electromagnet control unit provides the first driving current to the first electromagnet unit to drive the first electromagnet unit. Accordingly, the first stage folded state is maintained through the first electromagnet unit and the first magnetic unit. Meanwhile, the electromagnet control unit does not provide the second driving current to the second electromagnet unit and thus does not drive the second electromagnet unit.

When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages, the electromagnet control unit receives the on-signal from the first sensor and the on-signal from the second sensor. Thereafter, the electromagnet control unit provides the first driving current to the first electromagnet unit to drive the first electromagnet unit. Accordingly, the first stage folded state is maintained through the first electromagnet unit and the first magnetic unit. In addition, the electromagnet control unit provides the second driving current to the second electromagnet unit to drive the second electromagnet unit. Accordingly, the second folded state is maintained through the second electromagnet unit and the second magnetic unit.

The control board 200 may control the image displayed on the flexible display panel 100 based on the sensing signal of the sensor. In this embodiment, according to the folding state of the flexible display panel 100, an image is displayed only on the side that the user can view, and the image is not displayed on the side that the user cannot view.

For example, when the flexible display panel 100 is in a fully unfolded state, the control board 200 receives the off-signal from the first sensor and the off-signal from the second sensor . Thereafter, the control board 200 generates first image data by correcting the image data based on the off-signals, and the flexible display panel 100 displays the display area ( Display the image over all areas of DA).

When the flexible display panel 100 is in the first-stage folded state, the control board 200 receives the on-signal from the first sensor and the off-signal from the second sensor. Thereafter, the control board 200 generates second image data by correcting the image data based on the on-signal and the off-signal, and the flexible display panel 100 generates second image data based on the second image data. to display an image through the display area DA corresponding to the second and third non-folding areas 112 and 113 and the second folding area 122, and an image through the remaining display area DA. do not display

When the flexible display panel 100 is in the double-folded state, the control board 200 receives the on-signal from the first sensor and the on-signal from the second sensor. Thereafter, the control board 200 generates third image data by correcting the image data based on the on-signal and the off-signal, and the flexible display panel 100 generates third image data based on the third image data. Thus, the corrected image is displayed through the display area DA corresponding to the first non-folding area 111 , and the image is not displayed through the remaining display area DA.

As described above, when the foldable display 1000 includes the sensor, the first and second electromagnets are driven in response to the folded state of the flexible display panel 100 . Accordingly, even if the user does not provide a separate input, since the first-stage and the second-stage folding are maintained, the usability of the foldable display 1000 is improved. In addition, since neither of the first and second electromagnets is driven when the flexible display panel 100 is unfolded, and the second electromagnet is not driven when the first stage is folded, the first and second electromagnets are not driven Power consumption for driving wealth can be reduced.

In addition, since the image displayed on the display area DA is corrected in response to the folded state of the flexible display panel 100 , the usability of the foldable display 1000 is improved.

5 is a side view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Among the reference numerals in FIG. 5 , the same reference numerals as those of FIGS. 1 to 4 refer to the same components, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted because they are redundant.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the frame 501 has a shape bent along the second direction D2 . The first and second surfaces 511 and 521 may include curved surfaces corresponding to the bent shape. The curved surfaces are bent in the second direction D2. The curved surfaces have a 'U' shape rotated by 180 degrees and bent convexly toward the flexible display panel 100 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the curved surfaces may be variously modified and implemented. For example, the curved surfaces may have a 'U' shape that is convexly bent toward a side opposite to the flexible display panel 100 .

The flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages to be seated on the frame 501 . In this case, the flexible display panel 100 is bent along the curved surfaces of the first and second surfaces 511 and 521 to be seated on the frame 501 . That is, the first to third non-folding regions 111 , 112 , and 113 are bent along the curved surfaces in the second direction D2 .

In this case, the user may view the image through the bent first non-folding area 111 . Accordingly, the image displayed on the foldable display device 1001 has a three-dimensional effect, and the degree of immersion of the foldable display device 1001 is improved.

6 is a side view of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Among the reference numerals in FIG. 6 , the same reference numerals as those of FIGS. 1 to 4 refer to the same configuration, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted because they are duplicated.

Referring to FIG. 6 , the frame 502 further includes a rear surface 530 and an inclined surface 540 . The rear surface 530 is opposite to the first and second surfaces 510 and 520 . The inclined surface 540 connects the first surface 510 and the rear surface 530 , and extends obliquely from one side of the first surface 510 in the first direction D1 . In this embodiment, the inclined surface 540 is provided in a flat plate shape. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the inclined surface 540 may be modified and implemented in various ways. For example, the inclined surface 540 may be formed as a convex or concave curved surface.

The flexible display panel 100 further includes an inclined non-folding area 114 extending in the first direction D1 from one side of the first non-folding area 111 . In the inclined non-folding area 114 , the flexible display panel 100 is not folded. When the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages to be seated on the frame 502 , the inclined non-folding area 114 is disposed to face the inclined surface 540 .

The foldable display device 1002 further includes a third electromagnet unit 230 , a third magnetic unit 330 , and a third sensor 430 .

The third magnetic part 330 is disposed on the inclined non-folding area 114 , and the third electromagnet part 230 is disposed on the inclined surface 540 . The third electromagnet unit 230 vertically faces the third magnetic unit 330 when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages and seated on the frame 502 . A third driving current is applied to the third electromagnet unit 230 . In this case, the third electromagnet unit 230 generates an electromagnetic force in response to the third driving current.

The third sensor 430 is disposed on the inclined surface 540 and is disposed adjacent to the third electromagnet unit 230 . The third sensor 430 outputs a third sensing signal including the off-signal and the on-signal in response to whether the inclined non-folding area 114 and the inclined surface 540 face each other.

The electromagnet control unit further receives the third sensing signal, and controls the third driving current in response to the third sensing signal.

In summary, in a state where the inclined non-folding area 114 and the inclined surface 540 do not face each other, the electromagnet control unit receives the off-signal from the third sensor, respectively. In this case, the electromagnet control unit does not provide the third driving current to the third electromagnet unit. Accordingly, the third electromagnet is not driven.

When the inclined non-folding region 114 and the inclined surface 540 face each other, the electromagnet control unit receives the on-signal from the third sensor. Thereafter, the electromagnet control unit provides the third driving current to the third electromagnet unit to drive the third electromagnet unit. Accordingly, the inclined non-folding region 114 and the inclined surface 540 are maintained to face each other through the third electromagnet part and the third magnetic part.

7 is a plan view of a foldable display device according to another embodiment, FIG. 8 is a side view of the foldable display device shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a state in which the foldable display device shown in FIG. 7 is folded in one stage. It is a side view, and FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which the foldable display shown in FIG. 7 is folded in two stages. Among the reference numerals of FIGS. 7 to 10 , the same reference numerals as those of FIGS. 1 to 4 refer to similar components, and thus overlapping descriptions thereof will be omitted.

7 to 10 , the flexible display panel 101 of the foldable display 1003 further includes a base film 600 .

The base film 600 functions as a substrate for the first and second electromagnet units and the first and second magnetic units. The base film 600 is attached to the lower surface of the flexible display panel 101 . For example, the bonding film is interposed between the base film 600 and the flexible display panel 101 , and the bonding film bonds the base film 600 and the lower surfaces of the flexible display panel 101 to each other. .

The base film 600 has the same shape as the lower plate 140 . Accordingly, it is provided in a rectangular shape corresponding to the lower plate 140 , and has an area substantially equal to or larger than that of the lower plate 140 .

The base film 600 is provided with a material having flexibility such as resin. Accordingly, it is folded together with the flexible display panel 101 in response to an applied external force. The base film 600 is provided with a material having a hardness greater than that of the flexible display panel 101 to support the flexible display panel 101 so that the flexible display panel 101 is folded only when an external force greater than or equal to a specific value is applied. can play a role

The base film 600 is not folded in the first to third non-folding areas 111 to 113 and is folded in the first and second folding areas 121 and 122 .

The folding holding unit includes first and second magnetic units 310 and 320 and first and second electromagnet units 210 and 220 .

The first magnetic part 310 is disposed on the base film 600 to correspond to the first non-folding region 111 .

The second magnetic part 320 is disposed on the base film 600 to correspond to the first non-folding area 111 , and is disposed to be spaced apart from the first magnetic part 310 . In this embodiment, the second magnetic part 320 is spaced apart from the first magnetic part 310 in the third direction D3.

In this embodiment, the first and second magnetic parts 310 and 320 have a rectangular shape extending to cross the display area DA and the non-display area NDA along the second direction D2. is provided as

The first electromagnet unit 210 is disposed on the second non-folding area 112 and disposed on the base film 600 to correspond to the non-display area NDA. In addition, the first electromagnet unit 210 is disposed to vertically face the first magnetic unit 310 when the flexible display panel 101 is folded in the first stage.

The second electromagnet unit 220 is disposed on the second surface 520 of the frame 500 and disposed on the base film 600 to correspond to the non-display area NDA. In addition, the second electromagnet unit 220 is disposed to vertically face the second magnetic unit 320 when the flexible display panel 101 is folded in two stages.

In this embodiment, the first and second electromagnet units 210 and 220 have a rectangular shape extending in the second direction D2 to correspond to the first and second magnetic units 310 and 320, respectively. has

The above-described first and second magnetic units 310 and 320 and the first electromagnet unit 210 have a single rectangular shape crossing the non-display area NDA and the display area DA, respectively. is provided, and the second electromagnet unit 220 is also provided in a single rectangular shape to correspond to the second magnetic unit 320 . However, the shapes of the first and second magnetic parts 310 and 320 and the first and second electromagnet parts 210 and 220 may be variously modified. For example, referring to FIG. 11 , a plurality of the first and second magnetic units 311 and 321 and the first and second electromagnet units 211 and 221 may be provided, respectively.

More specifically, each of the first magnetic parts 311 is provided in a rectangular shape extending along the first direction D1. Approximately seven first magnetic parts 311 may be provided, and the first magnetic parts may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the first non-folding area 111 in the second direction D2 . Some of the first magnetic parts are disposed to correspond to the non-display area NDA, and the other first magnetic parts are disposed to correspond to the display area DA.

Each of the first electromagnets 211 is also provided in a rectangular shape extending in the first direction D1 to correspond to each of the first magnetic parts 311 . Seven first electromagnet units 211 are also provided to correspond to the first magnetic unit 311 , and the first electromagnet units are disposed in the second non-folding area 112 . In addition, the first electromagnet parts may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance along the second direction D2 so that the flexible display panel 100 faces the first magnetic parts when the first stage is folded. Some of the first electromagnets are disposed to correspond to the non-display area NDA, and the other first electromagnets are disposed to correspond to the display area DA.

Likewise, each of the second magnetic parts 321 is provided in a rectangular shape extending along the first direction D1. Approximately seven second magnetic parts 321 may be provided, and the second magnetic parts may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the first non-folding area 111 in the second direction D2 . In this embodiment, the second magnetic parts are spaced apart from the first magnetic parts in the third direction D3. Each of the second electromagnets 221 is also provided in a rectangular shape extending in the first direction D1 to correspond to each of the second magnetic parts 321 . Approximately seven second electromagnet units 221 are also provided to correspond to the second magnetic unit 321 , and the second electromagnet units are disposed on the second surface 520 . Also, the second electromagnet parts may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance along the second direction D2 so that the flexible display panel 100 faces the second magnetic parts when the flexible display panel 100 is folded in two stages.

In summary, the first and second magnetic units 310 and 320 and the first and second electromagnet units 210 and 220 are in the display area DA of the flexible display panel 101 . ) and the non-display area NDA may be arranged in various shapes and arrangements. Accordingly, it is possible to more stably maintain the folded state of the first and second stages of the flexible display panel 100 .

Although described above with reference to preferred experimental examples of the present invention, those skilled in the art or those having ordinary skill in the art will not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention described in the claims to be described later. It will be understood that various modifications and variations of the present invention can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the content described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the claims.

Claims (19)

a flexible display panel in which a first area, a second area, and a third area are sequentially defined in a first direction;
a generator disposed in the first area;
an action part disposed in the third region; and
a frame attached to a portion of the flexible display panel;
When the second region is folded so that the first region and the third region face each other, an attractive force by electromagnetic force is generated between the generating unit and the acting unit by the driving current applied to the generating unit, Each of the portion and the acting portion extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction. According to claim 1,
The display device further comprising a controller for controlling the driving current provided to the generator. 3. The method of claim 2,
The generator includes a wire through which the driving current flows. 3. The method of claim 2,
The generator includes a coil through which the driving current flows. 3. The method of claim 2,
The display device further includes a sensor disposed in at least one of the first area and the third area, wherein the sensor recognizes whether the second area is folded. 6. The method of claim 5,
The control unit receives a sensing signal from the sensor, and controls the driving current based on the sensing signal. According to claim 1,
The flexible display panel includes a signal wire, the generator includes the same material as the signal wire, and is formed through the same process. According to claim 1,
The working part is a display device selected from the group consisting of a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, a resin magnetic material, and combinations thereof. According to claim 1,
The display device includes a material that generates an electromagnetic force in response to the electromagnetic field generated by the generator. According to claim 1,
In the flexible display panel, after the first area, the second area, and the third area, a fourth area and a fifth area are further defined sequentially in the first direction, and the fourth area is a folding area. Device. According to claim 1,
The flexible display panel includes a display area for displaying an image and a non-display area, and each of the generating unit and the operating unit overlaps the display area. According to claim 1,
The flexible display panel includes a display area for displaying an image and a non-display area, and the generating unit and the operating unit overlap the display area and the non-display area, respectively. a flexible display panel including a display area for displaying an image and a non-display area, the flexible display panel being partially folded;
a generator to which a driving current is applied;
an acting part spaced apart from the generating part with a folding area of the foldable flexible display panel interposed therebetween;
a frame coupled to a portion of the flexible display panel; and
A control unit for controlling the driving current provided to the generating unit,
When the control unit provides the driving current to the generating unit, an attractive force is generated between the generating unit and the acting unit by electromagnetic force to maintain the folded region in a folded state, and the operating unit and the generating unit are each A flexible display device overlapping the display area. 14. The method of claim 13,
The generator includes a wire or a coil through which the driving current flows. 14. The method of claim 13,
a sensor disposed adjacent to the generating unit or the acting unit, wherein the sensor outputs a sensing signal sensing whether the folding area is folded to the control unit, and the control unit drives the driving unit based on the sensing signal A flexible display device that controls current. 14. The method of claim 13,
The working part is a flexible display device selected from the group consisting of a ferromagnetic material, a paramagnetic material, a resin magnetic material, and combinations thereof. 14. The method of claim 13,
The foldable area extends in a predetermined direction, and each of the generating part and the acting part extends in parallel with the folding area. 14. The method of claim 13,
A portion of each of the generating unit and the acting unit overlaps the non-display area. 14. The method of claim 13,
Each of the generating unit and the acting unit is provided in plurality, some of the plurality of generating units overlap the display area, another part of the plurality of generating units overlap the non-display area, and among the plurality of operating units A portion of the display area overlaps the display area, and another portion of the plurality of action portions overlaps the non-display area.

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