WO2020211947A1 - Display module for electronic device - Google Patents

Display module for electronic device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020211947A1
WO2020211947A1 PCT/EP2019/060154 EP2019060154W WO2020211947A1 WO 2020211947 A1 WO2020211947 A1 WO 2020211947A1 EP 2019060154 W EP2019060154 W EP 2019060154W WO 2020211947 A1 WO2020211947 A1 WO 2020211947A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
display
layer
module
display module
rigid part
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2019/060154
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Xueqiang Li
Sami MAATTANEN
Miika Keskinen
Original Assignee
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. filed Critical Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Priority to PCT/EP2019/060154 priority Critical patent/WO2020211947A1/en
Publication of WO2020211947A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020211947A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/0202Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets
    • H04M1/0206Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings
    • H04M1/0208Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings characterized by the relative motions of the body parts
    • H04M1/0235Slidable or telescopic telephones, i.e. with a relative translation movement of the body parts; Telephones using a combination of translation and other relative motions of the body parts
    • H04M1/0237Sliding mechanism with one degree of freedom
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1615Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function
    • G06F1/1624Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function with sliding enclosures, e.g. sliding keyboard or display
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1637Details related to the display arrangement, including those related to the mounting of the display in the housing
    • G06F1/1652Details related to the display arrangement, including those related to the mounting of the display in the housing the display being flexible, e.g. mimicking a sheet of paper, or rollable
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/0202Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets
    • H04M1/026Details of the structure or mounting of specific components
    • H04M1/0266Details of the structure or mounting of specific components for a display module assembly
    • H04M1/0268Details of the structure or mounting of specific components for a display module assembly including a flexible display panel

Definitions

  • the disclosure relates to a display module for an electronic device.
  • the size of electronic devices is an important consideration when designing mobile devices.
  • the outer dimensions of the device have to be as small as is technically feasible, while still allowing the display of the device to be as large as possible.
  • Such a foldable solution has a reduced width when being folded together.
  • the depth of the electronic device is substantial since several housing sections are stacked on top of each other. The depth may even be larger than the width, wherefore such a folded electronic device is bulky and aesthetically unappealing.
  • the continuous folding of the display may lead to permanent deformation due to fatigue, since the folded area is subject to very high stress.
  • a display module for an electronic device comprising a display support and a flexible display, the display support comprising a first rigid part, a second rigid part, and a flexible part arranged between the first rigid part and the second rigid part, the display module being adapted for folding such that the first rigid part and the second rigid part extend in parallel.
  • the first rigid part and the second rigid part are arranged on parallel planes and are configured to slide with respect to each other.
  • the first rigid part and the second rigid part may be arranged on two opposing faces of an electronic device.
  • Such a display module may slide linearly, and hence the size of the display can be changed without folding the display module.
  • the combination of flexible and rigid parts provides enough support to the flexible display while still allowing it to be wrapped around the device chassis without deforming permanently.
  • the flexible part comprises an elastomer layer having at least one planar surface and a corrugated metal layer superimposed onto each other, the flexible part being adapted for folding such that the corrugated metal layer faces at least one of the first rigid part and the second rigid part.
  • the corrugation adds stiffness in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the flexible part, while still being flexible in the direction of linear movement.
  • the display support further comprises an adhesive layer applied onto the planar surface of the elastomer layer, the adhesive layer adhering the flexible display to the display support.
  • the display support further comprises at least one lubricating layer, applied onto at least one of the first rigid part and the corrugated metal layer, which reduces the friction as the display module is moving.
  • the display support further comprises two reinforcement bars extending along a first edge and a second opposite edge of the display support, which reinforcement bars helps to keep the display module stable while moving and also provides additional protection to the display in case of impact.
  • the edges along which the reinforcement bars extend, are arranged on planes parallel to a moving direction of the display.
  • the flexible display comprises a covering structure comprising a cover layer and a polarizing layer
  • a displaying structure adhered to the covering structure by means of a first adhesive layer the displaying structure comprising a plurality of layers, at least one layer being an OLED panel layer or AMOLED panel layer.
  • the present solution eliminates the separate process step of fixing polarizers onto the display mocule, since the polarizing layer can be fitted in the covering structure by the component supplier, instead of during assembly. This not only simplifies the assembly process but also reduces time spent and costs generated.
  • the cover layer and the polarizing layer comprise at least partially of polymer material, for instance polyimide.
  • the displaying structure further comprises a touch sensor layer and a second adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer attaching the touch sensor layer to the panel layer, the second adhesive layer being a pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • the polarizing layer is arranged between the cover layer and the touch sensor layer.
  • the covering structure further comprises a hard coating adhered to the cover layer, providing additional protection to the outer surface of the cover layer.
  • the cover layer comprises a plurality of sub-layers being attached to each other by a third adhesive layer, the polarizing layer being coated directly onto one of the sub-layers, facilitating flexibility in the design of the cover layer.
  • at least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers comprise optically clear adhesive.
  • the first rigid part of the display module extends adjacent a first main side of the chassis module
  • the second rigid part of the display module extends adjacent a second, opposite main side of the chassis module
  • the flexible part of the display module extending from the first main side to the second main side, the combination of flexible and rigid parts providing enough support to the flexible display while still allowing it to be wrapped around the chassis module without deforming permanently.
  • the display module further comprises two reinforcement bars extending along a first edge and an opposite second edge of the display module, each end cap module comprising a groove adapted for accommodating the reinforcement bar, helping to keep the display module stable while moving and also provides additional protection to the display in case of impact.
  • the reinforcement bars are attached to the display support of the display module.
  • Fig. 1 shows perspective front and rear views of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the display module of the rolling display arrangement being in a retracted position, and intermediate position, and an extended position;
  • Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a spring of a spring module of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
  • Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a spring module of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the display module of the rolling display arrangement being in a retracted position, and intermediate position, and an extended position;
  • Fig. 6 shows an exploded perspective view of parts of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a transmission module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 8 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of a shaft module and two transmission modules of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 10 shows an exploded perspective view of a shaft module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 12 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional side view of a display module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 15 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 16 shows an exploded view of a display support of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 17 shows a partial perspective view of a part of a display support of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 18 shows a cross-sectional side view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 1 shows an electronic device 2 comprising a chassis module 22.
  • the chassis module has two oppositely arranged short sides 22a and two oppositely arranged long sides 22b, the long sides 22b extending perpendicular to the short sides 22a.
  • the short sides 22a and the long sides 22b form the edge area of the electronic device 2.
  • the chassis module 22 furthermore has two oppositely arranged main surfaces, the first main side 22c and the second main side 22d, which extend substantially perpendicular to both the short sides 22a and the long sides 22b.
  • the electronic device further comprises two end cap modules 23 arranged at opposite short sides 22a of the chassis module 22, and a rolling display arrangement 1 described in more detail below.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 partially encloses the chassis module 22, for example being adapted for covering one long side 22b, the first main side 22c, and the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22. The remaining long side 22b is not covered by the rolling display arrangement 1, regardless of the position of the rolling display arrangement 1.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 is interlocked with the chassis module 22 by means of the end cap modules 23, which are arranged adjacent the short sides 22a of the chassis module 22.
  • each end cap module 23 comprises an end cap and one or more screws, for example 2 screws.
  • the end of the end cap which is closest to the covered long side 22b is connected to the rolling display arrangement 1 by means of one screw.
  • the opposite end of the end cap i.e. the end which is closest to the non-covered long side 22b is connected to the chassis module 22 by means of one screw.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 may be in a retracted position PI or an extended position P2.
  • the electronic device 2 In the extended position P2, the electronic device 2 has one large visible display extending farther to one side than the chassis module.
  • the retracted position PI only a part of the large visible display extends along the front of the electronic device 2, i.e. adjacent the first main surface 22c of the chassis module 22, and the rest of the large visible display is folded around one long side 22b of the chassis module and along the back of the electronic device 2, i.e. adjacent the second main surface 22d of the chassis module 22. This allows the user to use a full-size display when, e.g., viewing video and to use a smaller display when using the device as a phone or during transport.
  • the chassis module 22 comprises the internal components of the electronic device, such as battery, main board, integrated circuits, processors, memory, cameras, speakers, flexible circuit boards and cables.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 comprises, as shown in Fig. 4, a display module 3, a shaft module 4, and at least one, in an illustrative examole two, transmission modules 5.
  • the transmission module 5 is adapted for transferring rotational movement of the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5 to linear movement of the display module 3.
  • Each transmission module 5 extends between one short side 22a of the chassis module 22 and one end cap module.
  • the shaft module 4 of the rolling display arrangement 1 extends adjacent the covered long side 22b of the chassis module 22 and between the end cap modules 23, and the flexible part 7c partially encloses the shaft module 4, i.e. the shaft module 4 is enclosed along its center axis, i.e. second center axis A2, while the opposite ends of the shaft module 4 are non-covered. 11.
  • the above-mentioned linear movement may be perpendicular to the second center axis A2.
  • the shaft module 4 will be described in more detail further below.
  • the display module 3 comprises a display support 7 and a flexible display 6, as shown in Fig. 14.
  • the flexible display 6 will be described in more detail further below.
  • the display module 3 is pre-assembled, as a sub-assembly, and subsequently slid onto the chassis module 22, and fixed into place by means of the end cap modules 23.
  • the short sides 22a of the chassis module 22 and the inside of the end cap modules 23 form a groove in which the edge of the display module 3 fits and is maintained into place.
  • the display support 7 comprises a first rigid part 7a, a second rigid part 7b, and a flexible part 7c arranged between the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b, as shown in Fig. 16.
  • the display module 3 is adapted for folding such that the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b extend in parallel, as the rolling display arrangement 1 encloses the chassis module 22.
  • the first rigid part 7a of the display module 3 extends adjacent a first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3 extends adjacent a second, opposite main side 22d of the chassis module 22.
  • the flexible part 7c extends from the first main side 22c to the second main side 22d.
  • the first rigid part 7a and/or the second rigid part 7b may include metal or may be made of metal.
  • the flexible part 7c of the display module 3 may comprise an elastomer layer 25 and a corrugated metal layer 26 superimposed onto each other, as shown in Fig. 17, for example co moulded together.
  • the flexible part 7c is folded such that the corrugated metal layer 26 faces the interior of the display module 3, and the corrugated metal layer 26 faces at least one of the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b.
  • the elastomer layer 25 has at least one planar surface, allowing the flexible display 6 to be adhered to the planar surface of the elastomer layer 25, for example by means of an adhesive layer 27.
  • the opposite surface of the elastomer layer 25 may be corrugated as well, such that the ridges of the elastomer layer 25 fill the valleys of the corrugated metal layer 26.
  • the corrugation adds stiffness in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the flexible part 7c, while still being flexible in the direction of linear movement.
  • the display module 3 encloses the chassis module 22 such that the first rigid part 7a of the display module 3 extends adjacent the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3 extends adjacent the second, opposite main side 22d of the chassis module 22.
  • the flexible part 7c of the display module 3 extends from the first main side 22c to the second main side 22d.
  • the display support 7 may comprises at least one lubricating layer 28, applied onto at least one of the first rigid part 7a and the corrugated metal layer 26, as shown in Fig. 18.
  • the lubricating layer 28 is made from POM-material or any other suitable lubricated material, and it minimizes the amount of friction and allows the display module 3 to slide smoothly.
  • the display support 7 comprises two reinforcement bars 29 extending along a first edge and a second opposite edge of the display support 7.
  • Each end cap module 23 comprises a corresponding groove 38 adapted for accommodating the reinforcement bar 29, as shown in Fig. 15.
  • the transmission module 5 is adapted for transferring rotational movement of the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5 to linear movement of the display module 3.
  • the linear movement is executed in a first direction D1 and a second, opposite direction D2.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 may be in one of a retracted position PI and an extended position P2.
  • the display module 3 covers the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the display module 3 also covers a part of the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22.
  • the display module 3 When the rolling display arrangement 1 is in the extended position P2, the display module 3 protrudes past the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, past the non-covered long side 22b, and the display module 3 also covers a part of the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 which is smaller than the corresponding part in the retracted position PI .
  • the shaft module 4 comprises a drive shaft 8 and a drive shaft gear 9 arranged at each end of the drive shaft 8.
  • the shaft module 4 may further comprise a freely rotatable outer shaft 17 and a stationary center shaft 18, the outer shaft 17, the drive shaft 8, and the center shaft 18 sharing a second center axis A2.
  • the drive shaft 8 is arranged between the outer shaft 17 and the center shaft 18, and the outer shaft 17 is in abutment with the flexible part 7c of the display support 7.
  • the freely rotatable outer shaft 17 rotates in response to the linear movement of the display module 3, acting as a bearing as it reduces the friction when the display support 7 is moving.
  • the outer shaft 17 is made of POM material, a self- lubricating plastic.
  • the outer shaft 17 comprises a helix- shaped cut 19 which extends through the wall of the outer shaft 17, in a helix shape, in the direction of the second center axis A2. This allows the outer shaft 17 to be expanded during assembly of the shaft module 4, facilitating arranging the outer shaft 17 around the drive shaft 8.
  • each end cap module 23 is releasably interconnected with the stationary center shaft 18 of the shaft module 4, as shown in Fig. 11.
  • the transmission module 5 may be interconnected with the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3, and with the drive shaft gear 9 of the shaft module 4. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the transmission module 5 comprises a drive belt 10, a transmission gear arrangement 11 driving the drive belt 10, a first display clamp 12a, and a second display clamp 12b being arranged on the drive belt 10.
  • the transmission gear arrangement 11 comprises a drive belt gear 13, driving the drive belt 10, and a synchronizing gear 14 meshing with the drive shaft gear 9 of the shaft module 4
  • the drive belt gear 13 and the synchronizing gear 14 share a further center axis, i.e. first center axis Al, as shown in Figs. 7, 11, and 12.
  • the drive belt 10 is arranged between, and extends substantially in parallel with, the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7.
  • the first display clamp 12a is interconnected with the first rigid part 7a of the display support 7, and the second display clamp 12b is interconnected with the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7.
  • the first display clamp 12a and the second display clamp 12b each comprise a protrusion 15 extending from the drive belt 10
  • the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7 each comprise a recess 16 for accommodating the protrusion 15, as shown in Fig. 8.
  • a drive shaft gear 9 and a transmission gear arrangement 11 engages, at both sides of the drive shaft 8, synchronizing the drive of both drive belts 10.
  • a counterclockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in a first direction Dl, as shown in Figs. 2 and 9, and simultaneously to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the second direction D2, the second direction D2 being opposite to the first direction Dl .
  • a clockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the second direction D2, and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the first direction Dl .
  • the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the first rigid part 7a
  • the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the second rigid part 7b and a part of the flexible part 7c.
  • the extended position P2 shown in Figs. 1, 2, 5, 13, and 15, the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the first rigid part 7a and a part of the flexible part 7c
  • the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 is partially covered by the second rigid part 7b.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to the extended position P2 when counterclockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the first direction Dl and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in a second, opposite direction.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to a retracted position PI when clockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the second direction D2, and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the first direction Dl .
  • the electronic device 2 comprises a spring module 24 arranged between the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 and the display module 3.
  • the spring module 24 comprises a spring support 24a as shown in Fig. 3 and a tension spring 24b.
  • a first end of the tension spring 24b is connected to the spring support 24a, adjacent the end cap module 23, and the second, opposite end of the tension spring 24b is connected to the first rigid part 7a of the display module 3.
  • the second end of the tension spring 24b is moved in the first direction Dl and in the second direction D2 of linear movement along with the first rigid part 7a.
  • the main function of the tension spring 24b is to help tightening the flexible display 6 and rolling in/out the rolling display arrangement 1.
  • the tension spring 24b changes form as the rolling display arrangement 1 moves.
  • the spring force ensures that the flexible display 6 is tightened and does not slide out.
  • the spring force holds the flexible display 6, such that it does not shrink arbitrarily without any external force.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 may be operated manually. However, the rolling display arrangement 1 may also be operated electronically.
  • the rolling display arrangement 1 comprises an electric motor 20, shown in Fig. 12.
  • a motor gear 21 of the electric motor 20 meshes with the synchronizing gear 14 of the transmission module 5, such that the electric motor 20 effectuates the rotational movement of both the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5.
  • the electric motor 20 is connected with a sub printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) by means of 2 pads.
  • PCBA sub printed circuit board assembly
  • the display module 3 comprises a display support 7 and a flexible display 6, shown in Fig. 14.
  • the flexible display 6 comprises a covering structure 30 comprising a cover layer 31 and a polarizing layer 32, and a displaying structure 33 adhered to the covering structure 30 by means of a first adhesive layer 34a.
  • the displaying structure 33 comprises a plurality of layers, at least one layer, for example an OLED panel layer 35 or AMOLED panel layer 35.
  • the cover layer 31 and the polarizing layer 32 may comprise at least partially of polymer material, for example polyimide. In one embodiment, the cover layer 31 comprises completely of polymer material.
  • the polarizing layer may comprise only one material, for example a liquid crystal polymer material.
  • the polarizing layer 32 comprises of two sub-layers coated onto each other, one sub-layer of polymer material and one sub-layer comprising a polarizer coated directly onto the polymer material sub-layer. This eliminates the need for additional adhesive or support layers within the flexible display 6.
  • the polarizer may be a circular polarizer, e.g., comprising of a linear polarizer and a quarter wave plate.
  • the two sub-layers may be coated as separate layers and comprise of the same base material but having different polymer molecule orientation.
  • the displaying structure 33 may comprises a touch sensor, located within a panel layer 35 (not shown).
  • the displaying structure 33 may comprise a touch sensor layer 36 and a second adhesive layer 34b, the second adhesive layer 34b attaching the touch sensor layer 36 to the panel layer 35.
  • the second adhesive layer 34b may be a pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • the polarizing layer 32 may be arranged between the cover layer 31 and the touch sensor layer 36.
  • the cover layer 31 comprises a plurality of sub-layers being attached to each other by a third adhesive layer 34c, in which case the polarizing layer 32 is coated directly onto one of the sub-layers (not shown).
  • the polarizing layer 32 may be coated directly onto an adjacent layer, i.e. the polarizing layer 32 may be coated directly onto a peripheral layer of the displaying structure 33 or coated directly onto one of the layers of the covering structure 30.
  • the covering structure 30 comprises a hard coating 37 adhered to the cover layer 31.
  • At least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers 34a, 34b, 34c comprise optically clear adhesive. At least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers 34a, 34b, 34c may have anti-shock properties.

Abstract

A display module (3) for an electronic device (2) comprising a display support (7) and a flexible display (6). The display support (7) comprises a first rigid part (7a), a second rigid part (7b), and a flexible part (7c) arranged between the first rigid part (7a) and the second rigid part (7b). The display module (3) is adapted for folding such that the first rigid part (7a) and the second rigid part (7b) extend in parallel. Such a display module may slide linearly, and hence the size of the display can be changed without folding the display module.

Description

DISPLAY MODULE FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE
TECHNICAL FIELD
The disclosure relates to a display module for an electronic device.
BACKGROUND
The size of electronic devices, such as tablets and mobile phones, is an important consideration when designing mobile devices. In order to provide the best mobile device possible, the outer dimensions of the device have to be as small as is technically feasible, while still allowing the display of the device to be as large as possible.
This problem may be solved by means of a foldable electronic device such as that of US 9,071,673, which discloses an electronic device comprising multiple housings interconnected by means of hinges and covered by one large display. The multiple housings, and the display, can be folded together to provide an as small device as possible, and unfolded to provide an as large display as possible.
Such a foldable solution has a reduced width when being folded together. However, the depth of the electronic device is substantial since several housing sections are stacked on top of each other. The depth may even be larger than the width, wherefore such a folded electronic device is bulky and aesthetically unappealing.
The provision of several housings not only makes the electronic device heavy and thick, but its foldable configuration also makes the electronic device electronically complicated.
Furthermore, the continuous folding of the display may lead to permanent deformation due to fatigue, since the folded area is subject to very high stress.
SUMMARY
It is an object to provide an improved display arrangement. The foregoing and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementation forms are apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures. According to a first aspect, there is provided a display module for an electronic device comprising a display support and a flexible display, the display support comprising a first rigid part, a second rigid part, and a flexible part arranged between the first rigid part and the second rigid part, the display module being adapted for folding such that the first rigid part and the second rigid part extend in parallel.
According to the configuration of the first aspect, the first rigid part and the second rigid part are arranged on parallel planes and are configured to slide with respect to each other. In particular, the first rigid part and the second rigid part may be arranged on two opposing faces of an electronic device. Such a display module may slide linearly, and hence the size of the display can be changed without folding the display module. Furthermore, the combination of flexible and rigid parts provides enough support to the flexible display while still allowing it to be wrapped around the device chassis without deforming permanently.
In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the flexible part comprises an elastomer layer having at least one planar surface and a corrugated metal layer superimposed onto each other, the flexible part being adapted for folding such that the corrugated metal layer faces at least one of the first rigid part and the second rigid part. The corrugation adds stiffness in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the flexible part, while still being flexible in the direction of linear movement.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the display support further comprises an adhesive layer applied onto the planar surface of the elastomer layer, the adhesive layer adhering the flexible display to the display support.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the display support further comprises at least one lubricating layer, applied onto at least one of the first rigid part and the corrugated metal layer, which reduces the friction as the display module is moving.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the display support further comprises two reinforcement bars extending along a first edge and a second opposite edge of the display support, which reinforcement bars helps to keep the display module stable while moving and also provides additional protection to the display in case of impact. The edges along which the reinforcement bars extend, are arranged on planes parallel to a moving direction of the display.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the flexible display comprises a covering structure comprising a cover layer and a polarizing layer, and
a displaying structure adhered to the covering structure by means of a first adhesive layer, the displaying structure comprising a plurality of layers, at least one layer being an OLED panel layer or AMOLED panel layer. This facilitates choosing a suitable display structure considering optical and mechanical restrictions. Furthermore, the present solution eliminates the separate process step of fixing polarizers onto the display mocule, since the polarizing layer can be fitted in the covering structure by the component supplier, instead of during assembly. This not only simplifies the assembly process but also reduces time spent and costs generated.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the cover layer and the polarizing layer comprise at least partially of polymer material, for instance polyimide.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the displaying structure further comprises a touch sensor layer and a second adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer attaching the touch sensor layer to the panel layer, the second adhesive layer being a pressure sensitive adhesive.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the polarizing layer is arranged between the cover layer and the touch sensor layer.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the covering structure further comprises a hard coating adhered to the cover layer, providing additional protection to the outer surface of the cover layer.
In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the cover layer comprises a plurality of sub-layers being attached to each other by a third adhesive layer, the polarizing layer being coated directly onto one of the sub-layers, facilitating flexibility in the design of the cover layer. In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers comprise optically clear adhesive.
In a possible implementation form of the second aspect, the first rigid part of the display module extends adjacent a first main side of the chassis module, and the second rigid part of the display module extends adjacent a second, opposite main side of the chassis module, the flexible part of the display module extending from the first main side to the second main side, the combination of flexible and rigid parts providing enough support to the flexible display while still allowing it to be wrapped around the chassis module without deforming permanently.
In a further possible implementation form of the second aspect, the display module further comprises two reinforcement bars extending along a first edge and an opposite second edge of the display module, each end cap module comprising a groove adapted for accommodating the reinforcement bar, helping to keep the display module stable while moving and also provides additional protection to the display in case of impact.
In a further possible implementation form of the second aspect, the reinforcement bars are attached to the display support of the display module.
This and other aspects will be apparent from and the embodiments described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the aspects, embodiments and implementations will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 shows perspective front and rear views of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the display module of the rolling display arrangement being in a retracted position, and intermediate position, and an extended position; Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a spring of a spring module of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a spring module of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the display module of the rolling display arrangement being in a retracted position, and intermediate position, and an extended position;
Fig. 6 shows an exploded perspective view of parts of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a transmission module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 8 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of a shaft module and two transmission modules of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 10 shows an exploded perspective view of a shaft module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 12 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional side view of a display module of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 15 shows a partial perspective view of a part of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 16 shows an exploded view of a display support of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 17 shows a partial perspective view of a part of a display support of a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 18 shows a cross-sectional side view of an electronic device comprising a rolling display arrangement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Fig. 1 shows an electronic device 2 comprising a chassis module 22. The chassis module has two oppositely arranged short sides 22a and two oppositely arranged long sides 22b, the long sides 22b extending perpendicular to the short sides 22a. The short sides 22a and the long sides 22b form the edge area of the electronic device 2. The chassis module 22 furthermore has two oppositely arranged main surfaces, the first main side 22c and the second main side 22d, which extend substantially perpendicular to both the short sides 22a and the long sides 22b.
The electronic device further comprises two end cap modules 23 arranged at opposite short sides 22a of the chassis module 22, and a rolling display arrangement 1 described in more detail below. The rolling display arrangement 1 partially encloses the chassis module 22, for example being adapted for covering one long side 22b, the first main side 22c, and the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22. The remaining long side 22b is not covered by the rolling display arrangement 1, regardless of the position of the rolling display arrangement 1. The rolling display arrangement 1 is interlocked with the chassis module 22 by means of the end cap modules 23, which are arranged adjacent the short sides 22a of the chassis module 22. In an exemplifying configuration, each end cap module 23 comprises an end cap and one or more screws, for example 2 screws. The end of the end cap which is closest to the covered long side 22b is connected to the rolling display arrangement 1 by means of one screw. Correspondingly, the opposite end of the end cap, i.e. the end which is closest to the non-covered long side 22b is connected to the chassis module 22 by means of one screw.
The rolling display arrangement 1 may be in a retracted position PI or an extended position P2. In the extended position P2, the electronic device 2 has one large visible display extending farther to one side than the chassis module. In the retracted position PI, only a part of the large visible display extends along the front of the electronic device 2, i.e. adjacent the first main surface 22c of the chassis module 22, and the rest of the large visible display is folded around one long side 22b of the chassis module and along the back of the electronic device 2, i.e. adjacent the second main surface 22d of the chassis module 22. This allows the user to use a full-size display when, e.g., viewing video and to use a smaller display when using the device as a phone or during transport.
The chassis module 22 comprises the internal components of the electronic device, such as battery, main board, integrated circuits, processors, memory, cameras, speakers, flexible circuit boards and cables.
The rolling display arrangement 1 comprises, as shown in Fig. 4, a display module 3, a shaft module 4, and at least one, in an illustrative examole two, transmission modules 5. The transmission module 5 is adapted for transferring rotational movement of the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5 to linear movement of the display module 3. Each transmission module 5 extends between one short side 22a of the chassis module 22 and one end cap module.
The shaft module 4 of the rolling display arrangement 1 extends adjacent the covered long side 22b of the chassis module 22 and between the end cap modules 23, and the flexible part 7c partially encloses the shaft module 4, i.e. the shaft module 4 is enclosed along its center axis, i.e. second center axis A2, while the opposite ends of the shaft module 4 are non-covered. 11. The above-mentioned linear movement may be perpendicular to the second center axis A2. The shaft module 4 will be described in more detail further below. The display module 3 comprises a display support 7 and a flexible display 6, as shown in Fig. 14. The flexible display 6 will be described in more detail further below. The display module 3 is pre-assembled, as a sub-assembly, and subsequently slid onto the chassis module 22, and fixed into place by means of the end cap modules 23. The short sides 22a of the chassis module 22 and the inside of the end cap modules 23 form a groove in which the edge of the display module 3 fits and is maintained into place.
The display support 7 comprises a first rigid part 7a, a second rigid part 7b, and a flexible part 7c arranged between the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b, as shown in Fig. 16. The display module 3 is adapted for folding such that the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b extend in parallel, as the rolling display arrangement 1 encloses the chassis module 22. The first rigid part 7a of the display module 3 extends adjacent a first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3 extends adjacent a second, opposite main side 22d of the chassis module 22. The flexible part 7c extends from the first main side 22c to the second main side 22d.
The first rigid part 7a and/or the second rigid part 7b may include metal or may be made of metal. The flexible part 7c of the display module 3 may comprise an elastomer layer 25 and a corrugated metal layer 26 superimposed onto each other, as shown in Fig. 17, for example co moulded together. When the display module 3 is mounted onto the chassis module 22, the flexible part 7c is folded such that the corrugated metal layer 26 faces the interior of the display module 3, and the corrugated metal layer 26 faces at least one of the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b. The elastomer layer 25 has at least one planar surface, allowing the flexible display 6 to be adhered to the planar surface of the elastomer layer 25, for example by means of an adhesive layer 27. The opposite surface of the elastomer layer 25 may be corrugated as well, such that the ridges of the elastomer layer 25 fill the valleys of the corrugated metal layer 26. The corrugation adds stiffness in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the flexible part 7c, while still being flexible in the direction of linear movement.
The display module 3 encloses the chassis module 22 such that the first rigid part 7a of the display module 3 extends adjacent the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3 extends adjacent the second, opposite main side 22d of the chassis module 22. Hence, the flexible part 7c of the display module 3 extends from the first main side 22c to the second main side 22d. The display support 7 may comprises at least one lubricating layer 28, applied onto at least one of the first rigid part 7a and the corrugated metal layer 26, as shown in Fig. 18. The lubricating layer 28 is made from POM-material or any other suitable lubricated material, and it minimizes the amount of friction and allows the display module 3 to slide smoothly.
In one embodiment, the display support 7 comprises two reinforcement bars 29 extending along a first edge and a second opposite edge of the display support 7. Each end cap module 23 comprises a corresponding groove 38 adapted for accommodating the reinforcement bar 29, as shown in Fig. 15.
As mentioned above, the transmission module 5 is adapted for transferring rotational movement of the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5 to linear movement of the display module 3. The linear movement is executed in a first direction D1 and a second, opposite direction D2. As shown in Fig. 2, the rolling display arrangement 1 may be in one of a retracted position PI and an extended position P2. When the rolling display arrangement 1 is in the retracted position P 1 , the display module 3 covers the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, and the display module 3 also covers a part of the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22. When the rolling display arrangement 1 is in the extended position P2, the display module 3 protrudes past the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22, past the non-covered long side 22b, and the display module 3 also covers a part of the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 which is smaller than the corresponding part in the retracted position PI .
As shown in Figs. 6 and 10, the shaft module 4 comprises a drive shaft 8 and a drive shaft gear 9 arranged at each end of the drive shaft 8. The shaft module 4 may further comprise a freely rotatable outer shaft 17 and a stationary center shaft 18, the outer shaft 17, the drive shaft 8, and the center shaft 18 sharing a second center axis A2. The drive shaft 8 is arranged between the outer shaft 17 and the center shaft 18, and the outer shaft 17 is in abutment with the flexible part 7c of the display support 7. The freely rotatable outer shaft 17 rotates in response to the linear movement of the display module 3, acting as a bearing as it reduces the friction when the display support 7 is moving. The outer shaft 17 is made of POM material, a self- lubricating plastic. When the display module 3 rolls around the outer shaft 17, it has to be deformed, and its linear movement becomes rotational movement. At this time, force and friction, applied onto the display module 3, are at their largest. The design of the outer shaft 17 and the use of self- lubricating material minimizes the amount of friction and allows the display module 3 to slide smoothly.
In one embodiment, shown in Fig. 10, the outer shaft 17 comprises a helix- shaped cut 19 which extends through the wall of the outer shaft 17, in a helix shape, in the direction of the second center axis A2. This allows the outer shaft 17 to be expanded during assembly of the shaft module 4, facilitating arranging the outer shaft 17 around the drive shaft 8.
In one embodiment, each end cap module 23 is releasably interconnected with the stationary center shaft 18 of the shaft module 4, as shown in Fig. 11.
The transmission module 5 may be interconnected with the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display module 3, and with the drive shaft gear 9 of the shaft module 4. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the transmission module 5 comprises a drive belt 10, a transmission gear arrangement 11 driving the drive belt 10, a first display clamp 12a, and a second display clamp 12b being arranged on the drive belt 10.
The transmission gear arrangement 11 comprises a drive belt gear 13, driving the drive belt 10, and a synchronizing gear 14 meshing with the drive shaft gear 9 of the shaft module 4 The drive belt gear 13 and the synchronizing gear 14 share a further center axis, i.e. first center axis Al, as shown in Figs. 7, 11, and 12.
As shown in Fig. 18, the drive belt 10 is arranged between, and extends substantially in parallel with, the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7.
The first display clamp 12a is interconnected with the first rigid part 7a of the display support 7, and the second display clamp 12b is interconnected with the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7. In one embodiment, the first display clamp 12a and the second display clamp 12b each comprise a protrusion 15 extending from the drive belt 10, and the first rigid part 7a and the second rigid part 7b of the display support 7 each comprise a recess 16 for accommodating the protrusion 15, as shown in Fig. 8.
A drive shaft gear 9 and a transmission gear arrangement 11 engages, at both sides of the drive shaft 8, synchronizing the drive of both drive belts 10. A counterclockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in a first direction Dl, as shown in Figs. 2 and 9, and simultaneously to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the second direction D2, the second direction D2 being opposite to the first direction Dl . Correspondingly, a clockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the second direction D2, and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the first direction Dl .
In the retracted position PI, shown in Figs. 2, 5, and 18, the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the first rigid part 7a, and the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the second rigid part 7b and a part of the flexible part 7c. In the extended position P2, shown in Figs. 1, 2, 5, 13, and 15, the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 is fully covered by the first rigid part 7a and a part of the flexible part 7c, and the second main side 22d of the chassis module 22 is partially covered by the second rigid part 7b.
The rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to the extended position P2 when counterclockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the first direction Dl and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in a second, opposite direction. Correspondingly, the rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to a retracted position PI when clockwise rotational movement of the drive shaft 8 is transferred to linear movement of the first rigid part 7a in the second direction D2, and to linear movement of the second rigid part 7b in the first direction Dl .
In one embodiment, the electronic device 2 comprises a spring module 24 arranged between the first main side 22c of the chassis module 22 and the display module 3. As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the spring module 24 comprises a spring support 24a as shown in Fig. 3 and a tension spring 24b. A first end of the tension spring 24b is connected to the spring support 24a, adjacent the end cap module 23, and the second, opposite end of the tension spring 24b is connected to the first rigid part 7a of the display module 3. The second end of the tension spring 24b is moved in the first direction Dl and in the second direction D2 of linear movement along with the first rigid part 7a.
The main function of the tension spring 24b is to help tightening the flexible display 6 and rolling in/out the rolling display arrangement 1. The tension spring 24b changes form as the rolling display arrangement 1 moves. When the rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to the retracted position PI, the spring force ensures that the flexible display 6 is tightened and does not slide out. When the rolling display arrangement 1 is moved to the expanded position P2, the spring force holds the flexible display 6, such that it does not shrink arbitrarily without any external force.
The rolling display arrangement 1 may be operated manually. However, the rolling display arrangement 1 may also be operated electronically. In one embodiment, the rolling display arrangement 1 comprises an electric motor 20, shown in Fig. 12. A motor gear 21 of the electric motor 20 meshes with the synchronizing gear 14 of the transmission module 5, such that the electric motor 20 effectuates the rotational movement of both the shaft module 4 and the transmission module 5. The electric motor 20 is connected with a sub printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) by means of 2 pads. A key for operating the electric motor 20 has to be added to the electronic device 2, as shown in Fig. 13.
As mentioned above, the display module 3 comprises a display support 7 and a flexible display 6, shown in Fig. 14. The flexible display 6 comprises a covering structure 30 comprising a cover layer 31 and a polarizing layer 32, and a displaying structure 33 adhered to the covering structure 30 by means of a first adhesive layer 34a. The displaying structure 33 comprises a plurality of layers, at least one layer, for example an OLED panel layer 35 or AMOLED panel layer 35.
The cover layer 31 and the polarizing layer 32 may comprise at least partially of polymer material, for example polyimide. In one embodiment, the cover layer 31 comprises completely of polymer material. The polarizing layer may comprise only one material, for example a liquid crystal polymer material. In a further embodiment, the polarizing layer 32 comprises of two sub-layers coated onto each other, one sub-layer of polymer material and one sub-layer comprising a polarizer coated directly onto the polymer material sub-layer. This eliminates the need for additional adhesive or support layers within the flexible display 6. The polarizer may be a circular polarizer, e.g., comprising of a linear polarizer and a quarter wave plate. The two sub-layers may be coated as separate layers and comprise of the same base material but having different polymer molecule orientation. Other solutions are however conceivable. The displaying structure 33 may comprises a touch sensor, located within a panel layer 35 (not shown). The displaying structure 33 may comprise a touch sensor layer 36 and a second adhesive layer 34b, the second adhesive layer 34b attaching the touch sensor layer 36 to the panel layer 35. The second adhesive layer 34b may be a pressure sensitive adhesive. The polarizing layer 32 may be arranged between the cover layer 31 and the touch sensor layer 36.
In a further embodiment, the cover layer 31 comprises a plurality of sub-layers being attached to each other by a third adhesive layer 34c, in which case the polarizing layer 32 is coated directly onto one of the sub-layers (not shown).
Regardless of the location of the polarizing layer, the polarizing layer 32 may be coated directly onto an adjacent layer, i.e. the polarizing layer 32 may be coated directly onto a peripheral layer of the displaying structure 33 or coated directly onto one of the layers of the covering structure 30.
In one embodiment, the covering structure 30 comprises a hard coating 37 adhered to the cover layer 31.
At least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers 34a, 34b, 34c comprise optically clear adhesive. At least one of the first, second, and third adhesive layers 34a, 34b, 34c may have anti-shock properties.
The various aspects and implementations have been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein. However, other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed subject-matter, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article“a” or“an” does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.
The reference signs used in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A display module (3) for an electronic device (2) comprising a display support (7) and a flexible display (6),
said display support (7) comprising a first rigid part (7a), a second rigid part (7b), and a flexible part (7c) arranged between said first rigid part (7a) and said second rigid part (7b),
said display module (3) being adapted for folding such that said first rigid part (7a) and said second rigid part (7b) extend in parallel.
2. The display module (3) according to claim 1, wherein said flexible part (7c) comprises an elastomer layer (25) having at least one planar surface and a corrugated metal layer (26) superimposed onto each other, said flexible part (7c) being adapted for folding such that said corrugated metal layer (26) faces at least one of said first rigid part (7a) and said second rigid part (7b).
3. The display module (3) according to claim 2, wherein said display support (7) further comprises an adhesive layer (27) applied onto said planar surface of said elastomer layer (25), said adhesive layer (27) adhering said flexible display (6) to said display support (7).
4. The display module (3) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said display support (7) further comprises at least one lubricating layer (28), applied onto at least one of said first rigid part (7a) and said corrugated metal layer (26).
5. The display module (3) according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein said display support (7) further comprises two reinforcement bars (29) extending along a first edge and a second opposite edge of said display support (7).
6. The display module (3) according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein said flexible display (6) comprises
-a covering structure (30) comprising a cover layer (31) and a polarizing layer (32), and -a displaying structure (33) adhered to said covering structure (30) by means of a first adhesive layer (34a),
said displaying structure (33) comprising a plurality of layers, at least one layer being an OLED panel layer (35) or AMOLED panel layer (35).
7. The display module (3) according to claim 6, wherein said cover layer (31) and said polarizing layer (32) comprise at least partially of polymer material, for example polyimide.
8. The display module (3) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said displaying structure (33) further comprises a touch sensor layer (36) and a second adhesive layer (34b), said second adhesive layer (34b) attaching said touch sensor layer (36) to said panel layer (35), said second adhesive layer (34b) being a pressure sensitive adhesive.
9. The display module (3) according to claim 8, wherein said polarizing layer (32) is arranged between said cover layer (31) and said touch sensor layer (36).
10. The display module (3) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein said covering structure (30) further comprises a hard coating (37) adhered to said cover layer (31).
11. The display module (3) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein said cover layer (31) comprises a plurality of sub-layers being attached to each other by a third adhesive layer (34c), said polarizing layer (32) being coated directly onto one of said sub-layers.
12. The display module (3) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein at least one of said first, second, and third adhesive layers (34a, 34b, 34c) comprise optically clear adhesive.
13. An electronic device (2) comprising a chassis module (22), a display module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 at least partially enclosing said chassis module (22), and two end cap modules (23) arranged at opposite short sides (22a) of said chassis module (22).
14. The electronic device (2) according to claim 13, wherein the first rigid part (7a) of said display module (3) extends adjacent a first main side (22c) of said chassis module (22), and the second rigid part (7b) of said display module (3) extends adjacent a second, opposite main side (22d) of said chassis module (22),
the flexible part (7c) of said display module (3) extending from said first main side (22c) to said second main side (22d).
15. The electronic device (2) according to claim 13, wherein said display module (3) further comprises two reinforcement bars (29) extending along a first edge and an opposite second edge of said display module (3),
each end cap module (23) comprising a groove (38) adapted for accommodating said reinforcement bar (29).
16. The electronic device (2) according to claim 15, wherein said reinforcement bars (29) are attached to the display support (7) of said display module (3).
PCT/EP2019/060154 2019-04-18 2019-04-18 Display module for electronic device WO2020211947A1 (en)

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