KR102736723B1 - Display device - Google Patents

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel, a folding information detection unit, a control module, and a distortion compensation unit. The display panel displays an image, and a folding area that is folded around a virtual folding axis on a plane and a plurality of non-folding areas adjacent to the folding area are defined. The folding information detection unit detects folding information of the display panel, and the control module outputs a control signal based on the folding information received from the folding information detection unit. The distortion compensation unit compensates for distortion of an image displayed in the folding area according to the control signal.

Description

DISPLAY DEVICE

The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a foldable display device having improved display quality in a folding area.

Recently, a display panel that can be bent or folded (hereinafter, referred to as a flexible display module) has been developed. This flexible display module includes a flexible display panel and various functional members. The flexible display panel includes a base member, various functional layers arranged on the base member, and pixels arranged on the base member.

A rollable display device or a foldable display device includes the flexible display module.

An object of the present invention is to provide a display device that improves display quality deterioration due to bending deformation in a folding area.

A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel that displays an image and defines a folding area that folds around a virtual folding axis on a plane and a plurality of non-folding areas adjacent to the folding area, a folding information detection unit that detects folding information of the display panel, a control module that outputs a control signal based on the folding information received from the folding information detection unit, and a distortion compensation unit that compensates for distortion of an image displayed in the folding area according to the control signal.

The above folding information detection unit includes a measuring unit that measures accumulated information on a folding operation of the display panel, a folding information generating unit that generates the folding information based on the accumulated information, and a folding information storage unit that stores the folding information.

The above measuring unit includes an accumulated time measuring unit that measures the accumulated folding time of the display panel, and an accumulated number of times measuring unit that measures the accumulated number of times the display panel has been folded.

The above folding information generation unit further includes a look-up table in which a deformation amount is stored based on a folding time and a number of folding operations, and the folding information generation unit reads out a corresponding deformation amount from the look-up table based on the accumulated folding time and the number of accumulated folding operations, and outputs the read-out deformation amount as the folding information.

The above display device further includes a strain sensor provided on the display panel.

The above-mentioned accumulated time measuring unit and the above-mentioned accumulated number of times measuring unit can calculate the accumulated folding time and the accumulated number of times, respectively, based on the values measured from the strain sensor.

The above display device further includes an input detection unit provided on the display panel, and the strain sensor can be placed within the input detection unit.

The distortion compensation unit includes a lookup table storing compensation data corresponding to the folding information, and a compensation unit receiving image data, receiving the compensation data from the lookup table, and outputting composite data that synthesizes the compensation data and the image data.

The distortion compensation unit further includes a comparator that compares the folding information with a preset reference value, and if the folding information is smaller than the reference value as a result of the comparison, the compensation unit can be turned off, and if the folding information is larger than the reference value, the compensation unit can be turned on.

The above compensation data may be data set to display a preset compensation pattern in the folding area.

The above compensation data may be data set to display a preset image in the above folding area.

The above display device may further include a low-frequency driving control unit that outputs a power control signal according to a normal operation mode that operates at a reference frequency and a low-frequency operation mode that operates below the reference frequency.

The above display panel includes pixels connected to gate lines and data lines, and the display device may further include a data driver that outputs a data signal to the data line and operates in the low-frequency operation mode by the power control signal.

The above distortion compensation unit is provided in the data driver and can be turned on in the low-frequency operation mode to compensate for distortion in the folding area.

The synthetic data output from the distortion compensation unit is supplied to the data driver, and the data driver converts the synthetic data into the data signal and supplies it to the data line.

The above display device may further include a light sensor unit that measures ambient illuminance.

The above distortion compensation unit may further include an illuminance comparator that compares the ambient illuminance measured through the illuminance sensor unit with a preset reference illuminance value.

If the ambient illuminance is lower than the reference illuminance value, the compensation unit may be turned off, and if the ambient illuminance is higher than the reference illuminance value, the compensation unit may be turned on.

Here, the reference illuminance value may be 200 nit.

The above display panel may include a flexible display panel including an organic light-emitting element.

The above folding information detection unit may include a first folding information detection unit that detects folding information for a first detection area among the folding areas, and a second folding information detection unit that detects folding information for a second detection area among the folding areas.

The display device may include an input detection unit provided on the display panel, a first strain sensor arranged within the input detection unit corresponding to the first detection area, and a second strain sensor arranged within the input detection unit corresponding to the second detection area.

The first folding information detection unit generates folding information for the first detection area according to the strain value measured through the first strain sensor, and the second folding information detection unit generates folding information for the second detection area according to the strain value measured through the second strain sensor.

The above distortion compensation unit can perform different compensations for the first and second detection areas, respectively.

A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a display panel that displays an image, and defines a folding area that folds around a virtual folding axis on a plane and a plurality of non-folding areas adjacent to the folding area, an input detection unit that is provided on the display panel and includes a strain sensor that detects folding information of the display panel, a control module that outputs a control signal based on the folding information received from the strain sensor, and a distortion compensation unit that compensates for distortion of an image displayed in the folding area according to the control signal.

According to the above, when a bending deformation occurs in a folding area due to a folding operation, the distortion of an image displayed in the folding area can be compensated to reduce the deterioration of display quality due to the bending deformation of the folding area.

FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1b is a perspective view showing an in-folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1c is a perspective view showing an out-folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2b is a perspective view showing a folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2c is a perspective view showing a folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3b is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are drawings showing examples of bending deformation in a folding area according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 5a is a graph showing the luminance characteristics according to the bending deformation of the display device illustrated in Fig. 4a.
Figure 5b is a graph showing the luminance characteristics according to the bending deformation of the display device illustrated in Figure 4b.
Figure 6 is a table showing the amount of deformation according to the cumulative number of foldings and cumulative folding time.
Figure 7 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a block diagram of the folding information detection unit illustrated in Figure 7.
Figure 9 is a block diagram of the distortion compensation unit shown in Figure 7.
Figure 10 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the display module illustrated in Figure 10.
Figure 12 is a plan view of the display panel shown in Figure 11.
Fig. 13a is a plan view of the input detection unit illustrated in Fig. 11.
Figure 13b is an enlarged view of the B1 portion shown in Figure 13a.
Figure 13c is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line II` shown in Figure 13b.
Figure 14a is an enlarged view of portion B1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 14b is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line Ⅱ-Ⅱ` shown in Fig. 14a.
Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is a block diagram of the drive module illustrated in Figure 16.
Figure 18 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 20 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 21 is a plan view of an input detection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 22 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 23 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 24 is a block diagram of the distortion compensation unit shown in Fig. 23.
Figure 25 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another component, it means that it can be directly connected/coupled to the other component, or a third component may be disposed between them.

Identical drawing symbols refer to identical components. Also, in the drawings, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the purpose of effectively explaining the technical contents.

“And/or” includes any combination of one or more of the associated constructs that can be defined.

The terms first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Additionally, terms such as “below,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper,” are used to describe the relationships between components depicted in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

It should be understood that the terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

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

FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1b is a perspective view of an in-folded state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1c is a perspective view showing an out-folded state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the display device includes a first display area (DA1), a second display area (DA2), and a folding area (FA). The display device illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C is only an example, and the display device may include two or more folding areas.

The folding area (FA) is positioned between the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2). A folding axis (FX) is defined in the folding area (FA). The folding axis (FX) is a rotation axis that occurs when the display device is folded and can be generated by the mechanical structure of the display device.

The display device includes a display surface (DS) that displays an image (IM). The display surface (DS) can be divided into a display surface of a first display area (DA1), a display surface of a second display area (DA2), and a display surface of a folding area (FA). Hereinafter, the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) define the display surface (DS) in an unfolded state. The third direction (DR3) indicates a thickness direction of the display device. In addition, the second direction (DR2) indicates an extension direction of the folding axis (FX).

As illustrated in FIGS. 1b and 1c, the display device is folded along the folding axis (FX) so that the display surface of the first display area (DA1) and the display surface of the second display area (DA2) face each other. Hereinafter, folding so that the display surfaces of different display areas face each other is defined as in-folding. In the present embodiment, the display device can be in-folded by rotating the first display area (DA1) clockwise along the folding axis (FX). In order to in-fold the display device so that the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2) are aligned, the folding axis (FX) can be defined at the center of the display device along the first direction (DR1).

As illustrated in FIG. 1c, in one embodiment of the present invention, the display device may be folded along the folding axis (FX) so that the display surface of the first display area (DA1) and the display surface of the second display area (DA2) face outward. Hereinafter, folding so that the display surfaces of different areas face outward is defined as out-folding.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the display device displays an image (IM) when the display surface of the first display area (DA1) and the display surface of the second display area (DA2) are exposed to the outside. In addition, the display surface of the folding area (FA) exposed to the outside can also display the image (IM). As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the display device can display the image (IM) in an unfolded state. The first display area (DA1), the second display area (DA2), and the folding area (FA) can each display images that provide independent information, or can each display portions of one image that provides one piece of information.

FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a perspective view showing a folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2c is a perspective view showing a folding state of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of folding areas (FA1, FA2). In this embodiment, a display device including two folding areas (FA1, FA2) is illustrated as an example.

The display device includes first to third display areas (DA1, DA2, DA3), and first and second folding areas (FA1, FA2). When the display device is unfolded, the first folding area (FA1) is positioned between the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2), and the second folding area (FA2) is positioned between the second display area (DA2) and the third display area (DA3). The widths of the first and second folding areas (FA1, FA2) may be different from each other.

A first folding axis (FX1) and a second folding axis (FX2) may be defined in the first and second folding areas (FA1, FA2), respectively. The display device may be in-folded or out-folded along the first folding axis (FX1) and the second folding axis (FX2).

As illustrated in FIG. 2b, the display device can be infolded along the first folding axis (FX1) in the first folding area (FA1) and along the second folding axis (FX2) in the second folding area (FA2). As illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the display device can display an image (IM) when the display surface of the first display area (DA1), the display surface of the second display area (DA2), and the display surface of the third display area (DA3) are exposed to the outside. In addition, the display surface of the first folding area (FA1) and the display surface of the second folding area (FA2) that are exposed to the outside can also display the image (IM).

As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the display device can be outfolded in the first folding area (FA1) along the first folding axis (FX1) and infolded in the second folding area (FA2) along the second folding axis (FX2). The display device can be outfolded in the first folding area (FA1) so that the display surface of the first display area (DA1) is exposed to the outside, and can be infolded in the second folding area (FA2) so that the display surfaces of the second display area (DA2) and the display surfaces of the third display area (DA3) face each other. In this case, the display device in the folded state can display an image (IM) to the outside through the first display area (DA1). The display device in the non-folded state can display an image (IM) on the display surfaces of the first to third display areas (DA1 to DA3) and the display surfaces of the first and second folding areas (FA1).

FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3b is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The display device illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b corresponds to a specific embodiment of the display device described with reference to FIGS. 1a and 1b. The hinge module (230) described below can also be applied to the first folding area (FA1) and the second folding area (FA2) illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2b.

The display device according to the present embodiment may include a display module (100) and a housing (200). The display module (100) may be a flexible display module having flexibility. As an example of the present invention, the entire display module (100) may have flexibility, or only a portion of the display module (100) (for example, a portion corresponding to the folding area (FA)) may have flexibility. The display module (100) may include a first display area (DA1), a second display area (DA2), and a folding area (FA) described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

The display module (100) is partially or completely coupled to the housing (200). The coupling structure of the display module (100) and the housing (200) is not particularly limited. For example, the housing (200) may provide a flat surface on which the display module (100) is arranged. In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing (200) may define a predetermined space, and the display module (100) may be accommodated in the predetermined space. The housing (200) may define a stepped space, and the display module (100) may be arranged in the stepped space.

The display module (100) can be rolled up as a whole or folded in a specific area. The display module (100) includes at least a flexible display panel and may further include various functional members. The display panel may be an organic light-emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, or an electrowetting display panel. The functional members may include a protective member, an optical member, a touch panel, and the like.

The housing (200) includes a plurality of parts that are coupled to each other. The housing (200) may include a first support module (210), a second support module (220) that is arranged spaced apart from the first support module (210), and a hinge module (230) that connects the first support module (210) and the second support module (220). The housing (200) includes a number of support modules corresponding to the display areas (DA1, DA2) of the display module (100).

The first support module (210) and the second support module (220) support the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2), respectively, and can be coupled to the first display area (DA1) and the second display area (DA2), respectively. Each of the first support module (210) and the second support module (220) may include a plurality of parts coupled to each other, or may have an integral shape formed by injection molding/extrusion molding.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate two hinge modules (230) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2). The number of hinge modules (230) is not particularly limited. Each of the two hinge modules (230) is provided corresponding to a folding area (FA) of the display module (100) and connects the first support module (210) and the second support module (220). One end of each of the two hinge modules (230) is coupled to the first support module (210) and the other end is coupled to the second support module (220).

The present invention is not limited to the housing (200) illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b, and the structure of the housing (200) can be applied in various ways.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are drawings showing examples of bending deformation of a folding area according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5A is a graph showing luminance characteristics according to bending deformation of the display device shown in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 5B is a graph showing luminance characteristics according to bending deformation of the display device shown in FIG. 4B. FIG. 6 is a table showing deformation amount according to the cumulative number of foldings and cumulative folding time.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, fatigue may accumulate in the display module (100) overlapping the folding area (FA) due to the repetitive folding and unfolding operations of the display device. Accordingly, the shape of the display module (100) may change in response to the folding area (FA). The shape deformation includes bending deformation such as sagging or bunching in the folding area (FA) of the display module (100).

In particular, the flexural strain of the folding area (FA) may vary depending on the cumulative number of folding operations and the cumulative folding time of the display device. That is, as the cumulative number of folding operations and the cumulative folding time increase, the flexural strain may increase.

In FIGS. 4a to 5b, the bending strain is expressed as a height difference of the display module (100) in the folding area (FA).

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the display module (100) in which a bending deformation has occurred may include a first region (A1) having a convexly concave shape and a second region (A2) having a concavely sagging shape within the folding area (FA). In FIG. 4A, a structure in which two first regions (A1) and one second region (A2) are included in the folding area (FA) is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, a plurality of first and second regions (A1, A2) may be provided in the folding area (FA).

In Fig. 4a, the display module (100) has a first bending strain (t1). The first bending strain (t1) is defined as a height difference between the first region (A1) and the second region (A2). Meanwhile, in Fig. 4b, the display module (100) has a second bending strain (t2). The second bending strain (t2) is also defined as a height difference between the first and second regions (A1, A2). Here, the second bending strain (t2) may be greater than the first bending strain (t1). That is, the display module (100) illustrated in Fig. 4b may be a display module having a greater number of cumulative folding times or a longer cumulative folding time than the display module (100) illustrated in Fig. 4a.

As shown in Fig. 6, when the cumulative number of foldings increases from n to 7n, the bending strain increases from 40.1 μm to 40.7 μm. In addition, when the cumulative folding time increases from k hours to 4k hours at the same cumulative number of foldings, the strain increases by approximately 0.3 μm. In other words, the bending strain increases as the cumulative number of foldings and the cumulative folding time increase.

In Fig. 6, as an example of the present invention, only the cumulative number of foldings and the cumulative folding time are shown as variables affecting the bending deformation, but the variables are not limited thereto. The variables affecting the bending deformation may further include the folding angle, the position of the folding area (FA), and the length of the folding area (FA).

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, when a bending deformation occurs in the folding area (FA) of the display module (100) as described above, the luminance of the folding area (FA) may increase. The increase in the luminance of the folding area (FA) due to the bending deformation may vary depending on the bending strain. That is, the first graph (g1) of FIG. 5A is a strain curve of the display module (100), and the second graph (g2) is a luminance curve of the display module (100). When the folding area (FA) of the display module (100) has a first bending strain (t1), the luminance of the folding area (FA) appears to have increased by a first value (d1) compared to the reference luminance value (Aref).

Meanwhile, the third graph (g3) of Fig. 5b is a strain curve of the display module (100), and the fourth graph (g4) is a luminance curve of the display module (100). When the folding area (FA) of the display module (100) has a second bending strain (t2), the luminance of the folding area (FA) appears to have increased by a second value (d2) compared to the reference luminance value (Aref). Here, the second bending strain (t2) may be greater than the first bending strain (t1), and the second value (d2) may be greater than the first value (d1).

Additionally, the visibility of the luminance difference in the folding area (FA) at the same flexural strain may vary depending on the ambient illuminance. That is, when the ambient illuminance is high, the luminance change may be more visible than when the ambient illuminance is low.

In the unfolded state of the display device, when displaying an image, if a bending deformation occurs in the folding area (FA), the reflectance of external light in the first area (A1) may increase due to the convexly packed shape. Accordingly, problems such as high brightness in the folding area (FA) or a glare phenomenon being recognized may occur due to such external light reflection.

As a result, a luminance deviation may occur between the folding area (FA) and the first and second display areas (DA1, DA2, i.e., non-folding areas). That is, at the same grayscale, the folding area (FA) may have higher luminance than the non-folding area, and this luminance deviation may affect the display quality of the display device.

Fig. 7 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 8 is a block diagram of a folding information detection unit illustrated in Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a block diagram of a distortion compensation unit illustrated in Fig. 7.

Referring to FIG. 7, the display device (DD1) includes a display module (100), a control module (CM), a folding information detection unit (FID), and a distortion compensation unit (CCP).

The control module (CM) controls the overall operation of the display device (DD1). The control module (CM) may be a microprocessor. For example, the control module (CM) activates or deactivates the display module (100). The control module (CM) may control other modules based on touch signals received from the display module (100).

The control module (CM) can output a control signal for controlling the operation of the distortion compensation unit (CCP) based on the folding information of the display device (DD1) received from the folding information detection unit (FID).

Although not shown in the drawing, the display device (DD1) may further include a power supply connected to the control module (CM), a wireless communication module, an image input module, an audio input module, a memory, and an external interface.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the folding information detection unit (FID) detects folding information based on the folding state of the display device (DD1). The folding information detected by the folding information detection unit (FID) can be used to control the distortion compensation unit (CCP) through the control module (CM).

The folding information detection unit (FID) may include a measuring unit (AID), a folding information generation unit (FIG), and a folding information storage unit (FIS).

The measuring unit (AID) can measure accumulated information on the folding operation of the display device (DD1). To do so, the measuring unit (AID) can determine the folding state and/or unfolding state of the display device (DD1). As an example of the present invention, the measuring unit (AID) can include an accumulated time measuring unit (ATD) and an accumulated number of times measuring unit (ACD).

The accumulated time measuring unit (ATD) measures the accumulated folding time of the display device (DD1), and the accumulated count measuring unit (ACD) measures the accumulated folding count of the display device (DD1).

The folding information generation unit (FIG) can generate folding information based on accumulated information. The folding information generation unit (FIG) can further include a look-up table in which a deformation amount is stored based on the folding time and the number of folding operations. The folding information generation unit (FIG) reads out a corresponding deformation amount from the look-up table based on the accumulated folding time and the number of folding operations, and outputs the read-out deformation amount as folding information.

The folding information storage unit (FIS) stores the folding information output from the folding information generation unit (FIG). The folding information stored in the folding information storage unit (FIS) can be provided to the control module (CM). The folding information can be provided to the control module at the user's request, or can be provided to the control module (CM) periodically at preset time intervals.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9, a distortion compensation unit (CCP) receives folding information according to a control signal and compensates for distortion of an image displayed in a folding area (FA, illustrated in FIG. 1A). As an example of the present invention, the distortion compensation unit (CCP) may include a lookup table (11), a compensation unit (12), and a comparator (13). Compensation data corresponding to the folding information may be stored in the lookup table (11). The compensation unit (12) may receive image data, receive compensation data from the lookup table (11), and output composite data that synthesizes the compensation data and the image data.

The comparator (13) can compare the folding information with a preset reference value. If the folding information is smaller than the reference value, the compensation unit (12) is turned off, and if the folding information is larger than the reference value, the compensation unit (12) is turned on. If the compensation unit (12) is turned off, the operation of compensating the image data is not performed, and if the compensation unit (12) is turned on, the operation of compensating the image data by synthesizing the compensation data and the image data can be performed.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the display module illustrated in FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 10, in a display device (DD2) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a display module (100) may include a display panel (110) and an input detection unit (120).

The display panel (110) may be a configuration that actually generates an image. The image generated by the display panel (110) is displayed on the front surface of the display module (100) and is viewed by a user from the outside. The display panel (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a light-emitting display panel, and is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the display panel (100) may be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots, quantum rods, and the like. Hereinafter, the display panel (100) is described as an organic light-emitting display panel.

The input detection unit (120) detects external input applied from the outside. For example, the input detection unit (120) can detect external input input by a user. External input includes various forms of input such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the input detection unit (120) may be placed on the display panel (110). The input detection unit (120) is formed by a continuous process after the display panel (110) is formed. Therefore, the input detection unit (120) may be referred to as an input detection layer.

The input detection unit (120) may be fixed on the display panel (110) through an adhesive layer. In this case, the input detection unit (120) may be referred to as an input detection panel. A functional layer may be further arranged between the input detection panel or the input detection layer and the display panel (110). The functional layer may include an anti-reflection layer having an anti-reflection function.

A detailed description of the input detection layer and input detection panel is provided below.

The display device (DD2) according to the present invention may further include a strain sensor (SS) provided within the input detection unit (120). In particular, the strain sensor (SS) may be placed within the input detection unit (120) corresponding to the folding area (FA).

The strain sensor (SS) can determine the folding state and/or the unfolding state of the display device (DD2). The strain sensor (SS) can determine the folding state based on a strain value of a folding area (FA), which is a portion where the display device (DD2) is folded. The strain value measured from the strain sensor (SS) can be provided to a folding information detection unit (FID). The folding information detection unit (FID) can determine whether the display device (DD2) is in the folding state or the unfolding state based on the strain value output from the strain sensor (SS).

In particular, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 10, the accumulated time measuring unit (ATD) can calculate the accumulated folding time by counting the folding time during which the display device (DD2) is in a folded state based on the strain value output from the strain sensor (SS). In addition, the accumulated number of times measuring unit (ACD) can calculate the accumulated number of times of folding by counting the number of times of folding based on the change in the strain value output from the strain sensor (SS).

Fig. 12 is a plan view of the display panel illustrated in Fig. 11. Fig. 13a is a plan view of the input detection unit illustrated in Fig. 11, Fig. 13b is an enlarged view of the B1 portion illustrated in Fig. 13a, and Fig. 13c is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line I-I` illustrated in Fig. 13b.

Referring to FIG. 12, the display panel (110) may include a plurality of signal lines (SGL) and a plurality of pixels (PX). The pixels (PX) are arranged in an active area (AA).

The signal lines (SGL) include gate lines (GL), data lines (DL), a power line (PL), and a control signal line (CSL). One gate line among the gate lines (GL) is connected to a corresponding pixel (PX) among the pixels (PX), and one data line among the data lines (DL) is connected to a corresponding pixel (PX) among the pixels (PX). The power line (PL) is connected to the pixels (PX). The control signal line (CSL) can provide control signals to the gate driving circuit.

Each of the pixels (PX) receives a gate signal from a gate line (GL) and a data signal from a data line (DL). In addition, each of the pixels (PX) receives a power voltage from a power line (PL). As an example of the present invention, each of the pixels (PX) may include an organic light-emitting element and a pixel driving circuit connected thereto. The pixel driving circuit may include a plurality of transistors and capacitors.

The display device (DD2) may further include a driving module (DCM) for driving the display panel (110). The driving module (DCM) may include a gate driver (GDC), a flexible circuit board (FPC), and a driving chip (DC).

A gate driver (GDC) generates a plurality of gate signals (hereinafter, “gate signals”) and sequentially outputs the gate signals to a plurality of gate lines (GL). The gate driver (GDC) can further output another control signal to a pixel driving circuit. The gate driver (GDC) can be arranged in a non-active area (NAA) of the display panel (110). The gate driver (GDC) can be provided to the non-active area (NAA) through the same process as the pixel driving circuit. As another example of the present invention, the gate driver (GDC) can be configured in a chip form and mounted on a display panel, or mounted on a separate film and attached to the display panel (110).

A flexible circuit board (FPC) may be connected to one side of a display panel (110). The flexible circuit board (FPC) may electrically connect various modules arranged on the outside of the display module (100) to the display panel (110) or a gate driver (GDC). A driving chip (DC) may be mounted on the flexible circuit board (FPC).

The driving chip (DC) may include driving elements for driving pixels, for example, a data driver. The flexible circuit board (FPC) according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated as one, but is not limited thereto, and may be provided in multiple pieces and connected to the display panel (110).

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13C, the display panel (DP) may include a base layer (BL), a pixel defining layer (PDL), a light emitting element (EMD), and an encapsulation layer (EC). The display panel (DP) may include a plurality of light emitting areas (PXAs) and a plurality of non-light emitting areas (NPXAs) arranged in a folding area (FA). FIG. 12C illustrates an area in which two of the light emitting areas (PXAs) are arranged.

Although not shown, the base layer (BL) may include a plurality of insulating layers and a plurality of conductive layers. The plurality of conductive layers and the plurality of insulating layers may form a thin film transistor and a capacitor connected to the light emitting device (EMD).

A pixel defining layer (PDL) is arranged on a base layer (BL). Specified openings are defined in the pixel defining layer (PDL). Each of the openings can define light-emitting areas (PXAs).

The light emitting device (EMD) is arranged on the base layer (BL). The light emitting device (EMD) can be arranged at a position corresponding to each of the openings. The light emitting device (EMD) displays light according to an electrical signal transmitted through a pixel driving circuit constituting the base layer (BL) to implement an image.

In the present embodiment, the light-emitting element (EMD) may be an organic light-emitting element. The light-emitting element (EMD) includes a first electrode (EL1), a light-emitting layer (EML), and a second electrode (EL2). The light-emitting element (EMD) can generate light by activating the light-emitting layer (EML) according to a potential difference between the first electrode (EL1) and the second electrode (EL2). Accordingly, the light-emitting areas (PXA) may correspond to areas where the light-emitting layer (EML) is arranged.

Meanwhile, the light-emitting areas (PXAs) may have different sizes. For example, each of the light-emitting areas (PXAs) may have a different size depending on the colors of the light emitted. By providing light-emitting areas of appropriate sizes for different colors, it is possible to achieve uniform light efficiency for various colors.

The encapsulation layer (EC) covers the light-emitting element (EMD). The encapsulation layer (EC) may include at least one inorganic film and/or organic film. The encapsulation layer (EC) prevents moisture from penetrating into the light-emitting element (EMD) from the outside and protects the light-emitting element (EMD). In addition, the encapsulation layer (EC) may be arranged between the light-emitting element (EMD) and the input detection unit (120) to electrically isolate the light-emitting element (EMD) and the input detection unit (120). Meanwhile, this is merely an example, and the encapsulation layer (EC) may be provided as a glass substrate or a plastic substrate, and in this case, an inert gas may be filled between the encapsulation layer (EC) and the light-emitting element (EMD). The display panel (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have various structures and is not limited to any one embodiment.

The input detection unit (120) may be directly placed on the encapsulation layer (EC). That is, the input detection unit (120) may be formed by being deposited or patterned on the upper surface of the encapsulation layer (EC). However, this is only illustrated as an example, and the display device (DD2) may further include unillustrated components such as a color filter or a buffer layer interposed between the input detection unit (120) and the encapsulation layer (EC).

As illustrated in FIGS. 13a and 13b, the input detection unit (120) may include a plurality of first detection electrodes (TE1) and a plurality of second detection electrodes (TE2).

The first sensing electrodes (TE1) and the second sensing electrodes (TE2) are arranged in the active area (AA). The input sensing unit (120) can obtain information about an external input through a change in electrostatic capacitance between the first sensing electrodes (TE1) and the second sensing electrodes (TE2).

The first sensing electrodes (TE1) may extend along the second direction (DR2) and be arranged along the first direction (DR1). Each of the first sensing electrodes (TE1) may include first sensing patterns (SP1) and first connection patterns (BP1).

The first sensing patterns (SP1) are arranged along the first direction (DR1). Each of the first sensing patterns (SP1) may be arranged spaced apart from each other. Each of the first sensing patterns (SP1) may have a rhombus shape. However, this is merely an example, and the first sensing patterns (SP1) may have various shapes and are not limited to any one embodiment.

The first connection patterns (BP1) can connect the first sensing patterns (SP1) that are spaced apart from each other along the first direction (DR1). For example, the first sensing patterns (SP1) can be connected by being placed between the first sensing patterns (SP1) that are spaced apart from each other.

The second sensing patterns (SP2) are arranged along the second direction (DR2). Each of the second sensing patterns (SP2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. In addition, the second sensing patterns (SP2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first sensing patterns (SP1). Each of the second sensing patterns (SP2) may have a rhombus shape. However, this is merely an example, and the second sensing patterns (SP2) may have various shapes and are not limited to any one embodiment.

The second connection patterns (BP2) can connect the second sensing patterns (SP2) that are spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). For example, they can be arranged between the second sensing patterns (SP2) that are spaced apart from each other to connect the first sensing patterns (SP2). The second connection patterns (BP2) can be provided in an integral shape with the second sensing patterns (SP2).

As illustrated in FIG. 13b, each of the first and second sensing patterns (SP1, SP2) may include a plurality of mesh lines (MSL). The mesh lines (MSL) include a first mesh line (MSL1) extending in a fourth direction (DR4) and a second mesh line (MSL2) extending in a fifth direction (DR5) and intersecting the first mesh line (MSL1). The first mesh line (MSL1) and the second mesh line (MSL2) may form predetermined mesh openings. The mesh openings may correspond to the light-emitting areas (PXA) illustrated in FIG. 13c. Accordingly, light output from the display panel may be output without interfering with the mesh lines (MSL).

According to the present invention, a strain sensor (SS) may be arranged inside an input detection unit (120). The strain sensor (SS) is arranged inside the input detection unit (120) corresponding to a folding area (FA) and may detect a change in resistance due to a folding operation. The strain sensor (SS) includes strain detection patterns (FS) and strain connection patterns (FB).

The strain sensing patterns (FS) can be arranged in the folding area (FA). Each of the strain sensing patterns (FS) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. In addition, the strain sensing patterns (FS) can be spaced apart from the first sensing electrodes (TE1) and the second sensing electrodes (TE2).

The strain connection patterns (FB) can connect the strain sensing patterns (FS) that are spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2). For example, the strain sensing patterns (FS) can be connected by being placed between the strain sensing patterns (FS) that are spaced apart from each other.

As an example of the present invention, the input sensing unit (120) may further include a dummy pattern (DP). The dummy patterns (DP) are arranged to be spaced apart from the first sensing electrodes (TE1), the second sensing electrodes (TE2), and the strain sensing patterns (FS). The dummy patterns (DP) may float from the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2). Each of the dummy patterns (DP) may be surrounded by at least one of the first sensing pattern (SP1) and the second sensing pattern (SP2) on a plane. For example, each of the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2) may have a rhombus shape, and an empty space may be formed in the center area of the rhombus. At this time, the dummy patterns (DP) may be arranged in the empty space and may be electrically separated from the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2).

Since the dummy patterns (DP) are arranged in the empty spaces formed in the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2), the shapes of the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2) can be prevented from being externally recognized. In addition, the dummy patterns (DP) can prevent parasitic caps generated between the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2) and electrodes included in the light-emitting element (EMD, FIG. 13c). Therefore, by including the dummy patterns (DP), an input sensing unit (120) with secured reliability can be provided.

Referring to FIGS. 13b and 13c, a first conductive layer (BP1, FS) is disposed on a display panel (110). As an example of the present invention, the first conductive layer (BP1, FS) may include a first connection pattern (BP1), strain sensing patterns (FS), and strain connection patterns (FB).

The second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) is disposed on the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB). The second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) may include a first sensing pattern (SP1), a second sensing pattern (SP2), a second connection pattern (BP2), and a dummy pattern (DP).

The conductive patterns constituting each of the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) may be arranged so as not to overlap with the light-emitting areas (PXA) on a plane. Accordingly, the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) according to an embodiment of the present invention may not affect the image (IM) displayed on the light-emitting areas (PXA) even if they are formed of an opaque material or have a large area. However, this is merely an example, and each of the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) may include a conductive pattern arranged so as to overlap with at least a part of the light-emitting areas (PXA), and is not limited to any one embodiment.

The first insulating layer (30) is arranged between the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP). The first insulating layer (30) separates and separates the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) in a cross-sectional view. Meanwhile, the first sensing pattern (SP1) can be electrically connected to the first connection pattern (BP1) through the first and second contact holes (CH1, CH2) penetrating the first insulating layer (30).

The second insulating layer (40) is disposed on the first insulating layer (30). The second insulating layer (40) can cover the second conductive layers (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP). The second insulating layer (40) protects the second conductive layers (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) from the external environment.

The first insulating layer (30) and the second insulating layer (40) have insulating properties and can be optically transparent. Accordingly, even if the light-emitting area (PXA) is covered by the first insulating layer (30) and the second insulating layer (40), light generated from the light-emitting area (PXA) can be easily recognized above the input detection unit (120).

The first insulating layer (30) and the second insulating layer (40) may include at least one inorganic film and/or organic film.

FIG. 14a is an enlarged view of a portion B1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14b is a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting line Ⅱ-Ⅱ` shown in FIG. 14a.

Referring to FIGS. 14a and 14b, the first challenge layer (BP1, FB) may include a first connection pattern (BP1) and a strain connection pattern (FB).

The second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP, FS) is disposed on the first conductive layer (BP1, FB). The second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP, FS) may include a first sensing pattern (SP1), a second sensing pattern (SP2), a second connection pattern (BP2), a dummy pattern (DP), and strain sensing patterns (FS).

The dummy patterns (DP) can be floated from the first sensing patterns (SP1) and the second sensing patterns (SP2). The strain sensing patterns (FS) can be arranged on the same layer as the dummy patterns (DP) and spaced apart from the dummy patterns (DP).

Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a display module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 illustrates a structure in which an input detection panel is provided on a display panel.

Referring to FIG. 15, the display panel (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an encapsulation substrate (ECG) disposed on an encapsulation layer (EC). The encapsulation substrate (ECG) may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a plastic substrate, or the like. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The display panel may further include a sealing layer (SM) disposed between the encapsulation substrate (ECG) and the encapsulation layer (EC). The sealing layer (SM) is disposed between the encapsulation substrate (ECG) and the encapsulation layer (EC) to form a cell gap and to bond and seal them.

An input detection panel (120) may be placed on the bag substrate (ECG). The input detection panel (120) includes a base layer (10) and first and second conductive layers, and first and second insulating layers (30, 40) placed thereon. The base layer (10) may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a plastic substrate, or the like. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The base layer (10) may be an inorganic layer, an organic layer, or a composite material layer.

The first conductive layer (BP1, FS) is disposed on the base layer (10). The second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) is disposed on the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB). 1 An insulating layer (30) is disposed between the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP). The first insulating layer (30) separates and separates the first conductive layer (BP1, FS, FB) and the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) in a cross-sectional view. The second insulating layer (40) is disposed on the first insulating layer (30). The second insulating layer (40) can cover the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP). The second insulating layer (40) protects the second conductive layer (SP1, SP2, BP2, DP) from an external environment.

The input detection panel (120) can be attached to the upper surface of the display panel via an adhesive layer (AL). The adhesive layer (AL) can include an optically transparent material. It can be an optically clear adhesive film, an optically clear resin, or a pressure sensitive adhesive film.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a driving module illustrated in FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 16, the display device (DD3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a low-frequency driving control unit (AOD). The low-frequency driving control unit (AOD) outputs a power control signal according to a normal operation mode that operates at a reference frequency and a low-frequency operation mode that operates below the reference frequency. The driving module (DCM) receives the power control signal and may operate in the normal operation mode or the low-frequency operation mode according to the power control signal.

In the normal operation mode, the drive module (DCM) can operate at a reference frequency (e.g., 60 Hz), and in the low-frequency operation mode, the drive module (DCM) can operate at a frequency lower than the reference frequency (hereinafter, low frequency, e.g., 1 Hz). That the drive module (DCM) operates in the low-frequency operation mode may include that one or more of the circuits constituting the drive module (DCM) operate in the low-frequency operation mode.

When the drive module (DCM) operates in a low-frequency operation mode, the power consumed by the drive module (DCM) can be reduced, and as a result, the overall power consumption of the display device (DD3) can be reduced.

Referring to FIG. 17, a driving module (DCM) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a gate driver (GDC) and a data driver (DDC). The gate driver (GDC) provides a gate signal to a gate line (GL, illustrated in FIG. 12) of a display panel (100), and the data driver (DDC) provides a data signal to a data line (DL, illustrated in FIG. 12) of a display panel (110).

Either the gate driver (GDC) or the data driver (DDC) can receive a power control signal and operate in a low-frequency operation mode, or both the gate driver (GDC) and the data driver (DDC) can receive a power control signal and operate in a low-frequency operation mode.

A data driver (DDC) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a distortion compensation unit (CCP). The distortion compensation unit (CCP) receives folding information and compensates for distortion of an image displayed in a folding area (FA) according to the folding information. The distortion compensation unit (CCP) may be turned on in a low-frequency operation mode to compensate for distortion in the folding area (FA).

The distortion compensation unit (CCP) can receive image data. Here, the image data provided to the distortion compensation unit (CCP) can be data processed by some circuits constituting the data driver (DCC), or can be data before being provided to the input terminal of the data driver (DCC) (i.e., before being processed).

The distortion compensation unit (CCP) performs compensation processing using image data and previously stored compensation data. In other words, the distortion compensation unit (CCP) can output composite data that synthesizes compensation data and image data. The distortion compensation process of the distortion compensation unit (CCP) is explained with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19.

FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 18, the distortion compensation unit (CCP) can output composite data that synthesizes compensation data and image data.

A raw image (OI) based on image data corresponding to the entire area of a display panel (110), a compensation pattern image (CI1) based on compensation data, and a composite image (MI1) based on composite data are illustrated. Here, the compensation pattern image (CI1) may include a preset pattern in a folding area (FA). The compensation data may be data set so that a preset pattern is displayed in the folding area (FA). The compensation pattern image (CI1) based on the compensation data may include a mosaic pattern. That is, dark areas and bright areas may appear repeatedly in a row-column direction in the compensation pattern image (CI1).

The composite image (MI1) may be a composite image of the original image (OI) and the compensation pattern image (CI1). Since the compensation pattern image (CI1) alleviates the luminance deviation in the original image (OI), the luminance deviation due to the curvature deformation may not be visible to the naked eye in the composite image (MI1).

Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the display device (DD3) can display an image in which the luminance deviation due to bending deformation in the folding area (FA) is eliminated over the entire screen, and as a result, the display quality of the display device (DD3) can be improved.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 19, the compensation data may be data for displaying a preset compensation image in a folding area.

A raw image (OI) based on image data corresponding to the entire area of the display panel (110), a compensation image (CI2) based on the compensation data, and a composite image (MI2) based on the composite data are illustrated. Here, the compensation image (CI2) may include a preset pattern in the folding area (FA). The compensation data may be data set so that a preset image is displayed in the folding area (FA). The compensation image (CI2) based on the compensation data may include a specific image. As an example of the present invention, the compensation image (CI2) may be a flower image displayed along the folding area (FA). In addition to the flower image, various images may be applied to the compensation image (CI2).

The composite image (MI2) can be a composite image of the original image (OI) and the compensation image (CI2). Since the compensation image (CI2) is displayed in the folding area (FA), the luminance deviation in the original image (OI) can be alleviated.

Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the display device (DD3) can display an image in which the luminance deviation due to bending deformation in the folding area (FA) is eliminated over the entire screen, and as a result, the display quality of the display device (DD3) can be improved.

In this way, the synthetic data compensated by the distortion compensation unit (CCP) is supplied to some circuits or input terminals of the data driver (DCC). The data driver (DCC) can convert the synthetic data into a data signal and supply it to the data line (DL).

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21 is a plan view of an input detection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 22 is a conceptual diagram showing a distortion compensation process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, a display device (DD4) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include first and second folding information detection units (FID1, FID2). The first folding information detection unit (FID1) detects folding information for a first detection area (C1) among the folding areas (FA), and the second folding information detection unit (FID2) detects folding information for a second detection area (C2) among the folding areas (FA). The first and second detection areas (C1, C2) may be areas defined by dividing the folding area (FA) into two areas based on the folding axis (FX, FIG. 1a).

As an example of the present invention, the amount of bending deformation of the first detection area (C1) may be different from the amount of bending deformation of the second detection area (C2). In this case, the first and second folding information detection units (FID1, FID2) detect folding information for each of the first and second detection areas (C1, C2), thereby performing different distortion compensations for each detection area.

The display device (DD4) includes a first strain sensor (SS1) provided in the input detection unit (120) corresponding to the first detection area (C1) and a second strain sensor (SS2) provided in the input detection unit (120) corresponding to the second detection area (C2). The first and second strain sensors (SS1, SS2) can determine a folding state and/or an unfolding state of the display device (DD2). A strain value measured from the first strain sensor (SS1) can be provided to a first folding information detection unit (FID1), and a strain value measured from the second strain sensor (SS1) can be provided to a second folding information detection unit (FID2). The first and second folding information detection units (FID1, FID2) can detect the amount of bending deformation in the first and second detection areas (C1, C2) by the strain values output from the first and second strain sensors (SS1, SS2), respectively.

The distortion compensation unit (CCP) can compensate for distortion for the first and second detection areas (C1, C2), respectively. The distortion compensation unit (CCP) can output composite data that synthesizes the first compensation data for the first detection area (C1) and the second compensation data for the second detection area (C2) into the image data.

As illustrated in FIG. 22, the raw image (OI) based on image data corresponding to the entire area of the display panel (110) is synthesized with a first compensation pattern image (SCI1) based on the first compensation data and a second compensation pattern image (SCI2) based on the second compensation data. Accordingly, the display device (DD4) can display a synthesized image (MI3) based on the synthesized result synthesized data. Here, the first compensation pattern image (SCI1) can include a preset pattern in the first detection area (C1), and the second compensation pattern image (SCI2) can include a preset pattern in the second detection area (C2).

In Fig. 22, an example is shown where the bending deformation of the first detection area (C1) is greater than that of the second detection area (C2), and in this case, the mosaic pattern included in the first compensation pattern image (SCI1) is finer than the mosaic pattern included in the second compensation pattern area (SCI2). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

The composite image (MI3) may be an image synthesized from the original image (OI) and the first and second compensation pattern images (SCI1, SCI2). Since the first and second compensation pattern images (SCI1, SCI2) alleviate the luminance deviation in the original image (OI), the luminance deviation due to the curvature deformation may not be visually recognized in the composite image (MI3).

Accordingly, the display device (DD4) can display an image in which the luminance deviation due to bending deformation in the folding area (FA) is eliminated over the entire screen, and as a result, the display quality of the display device (DD4) can be improved.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 24 is a block diagram of a distortion compensation unit illustrated in FIG. 23.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the display device (DD5) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an illuminance sensor unit (IOD). The illuminance sensor unit (IOD) is provided in a housing (200, shown in FIG. 3A) of the display device (DD5) and can measure the surrounding illuminance.

The distortion compensation unit (CCP) may further include an illuminance comparator (14) that compares the ambient illuminance with a preset reference illuminance value. If the ambient illuminance is lower than the reference illuminance value as a result of the comparison by the illuminance comparator (14), the comparator (13) and the compensation unit (12) may be turned off. That is, if the ambient illuminance is lower than the reference illuminance value, distortion in the folding area (FA) may not be recognized, and thus distortion compensation may be unnecessary. Therefore, in this case, distortion compensation may not be performed.

As a result of the comparison by the illuminance comparator (14), if the ambient illuminance is higher than the reference illuminance value, the comparator (13) and the compensation unit (12) may be turned on. That is, if the ambient illuminance is higher than the reference illuminance value, distortion may be recognized in the folding area (FA), so distortion compensation may be required. Therefore, in this case, distortion compensation may be performed.

As an example of the present invention, the reference illuminance value may be 200 nit. However, the reference illuminance value may vary depending on the cumulative folding time and the cumulative number of folding operations. That is, if the cumulative folding time and the cumulative number of folding operations increase, the reference illuminance value may increase compared to the initial reference illuminance value.

Here, the structure for turning on or off the comparator (13) and the compensation unit (12) according to the ambient illuminance has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As an example of the present invention, the amount of distortion compensation can be adjusted according to the ambient illuminance. That is, when the ambient illuminance is lower than the reference illuminance value, the distortion compensation amount can be set small, and when the ambient illuminance is higher than the reference illuminance value, the distortion compensation amount can be set large.

Accordingly, the display device (DD5) can prevent brightness deviation due to bending deformation from being recognized in the folding area (FA) across the entire screen regardless of the surrounding illuminance, and as a result, the display quality of the display device (DD5) can be improved.

Figure 25 is a block diagram of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 25, a display device (DD6) according to an embodiment of the present invention may not have a folding information detection unit, unlike the display device (DD3) illustrated in FIG. 16. That is, the display device (DD6) according to FIG. 25 may generate folding information for the display device (DD6) based on a strain value provided from a strain sensor (SS). That is, the control module (CM) reads out a corresponding strain amount from a look-up table based on the strain value provided from the strain sensor (SS) and outputs the read-out strain amount as folding information.

The distortion compensation unit (CCP) receives folding information according to a control signal and compensates for the distortion of the image displayed in the folding area (FA, illustrated in FIG. 1a). The description of the configuration and operation of the distortion compensation unit (CCP) is similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 24, so redundant description is omitted.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims. In addition, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of the present invention, and all technical ideas within the scope of the following claims and their equivalents should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

DD1~DD6: Display device 100: Display module
110: Display panel 120: Input detection unit
CM: Control module FID: Folding information detection unit
CCP: Distortion Compensation Unit ATD: Accumulated Time Measurement Unit
ACD: Accumulated count measurement unit FIG: Folding information generation unit
FIS: Folding Information Storage Unit 11: Lookup Table
12: Compensation section 13: Comparator
SS: Strain sensor AOD: Low frequency drive control unit
IOD: Illuminance sensor part 14: Illuminance comparator

Claims (24)

A display panel that displays an image and defines a folding area that folds about a virtual folding axis on a plane and a plurality of non-folding areas adjacent to the folding area;
A folding information detection unit that detects folding information of the above display panel;
A control module that outputs a control signal based on folding information received from a folding information detection unit; and
A display device including a distortion compensation unit that compensates for image distortion occurring in the folding area due to a height difference between the first and second areas of the folding area when the display panel is in a non-folded state, according to the control signal. In the first paragraph, the folding information detection unit,
A measuring unit for measuring accumulated information on the folding operation of the above display panel;
A folding information generation unit that generates the folding information based on the above accumulated information; and
A display device including a folding information storage unit that stores the above folding information. In the second paragraph, the measuring unit,
A display device including an accumulated time measuring unit that measures the accumulated folding time of the above display panel. In the third paragraph, the measuring unit,
A display device further comprising a cumulative count measuring unit for measuring the cumulative number of foldings of the display panel. In the fourth paragraph, the folding information generation unit,
Further comprising a look-up table storing the deformation amount based on the folding time and the number of foldings,
The above folding information generation unit is a display device that reads out a corresponding deformation amount from the look-up table based on the accumulated folding time and the accumulated number of foldings, and outputs the read-out deformation amount as the folding information. In the fourth paragraph, the measuring unit,
Further comprising a strain sensor provided on the above display panel,
A display device, characterized in that the accumulated time measuring unit and the accumulated number of times measuring unit calculate the accumulated folding time and the accumulated number of times, respectively, based on the values measured from the strain sensor. In the sixth paragraph, an input detection unit is further provided on the display panel,
The above strain sensor is a display device placed within the input detection unit. In the second paragraph, the distortion compensation unit,
A lookup table storing compensation data corresponding to the above folding information; and
A display device including a compensation unit that receives image data, receives compensation data from the lookup table, and outputs composite data that synthesizes the compensation data and the image data. In the 8th paragraph, the distortion compensation unit,
Further comprising a comparator for comparing the above folding information with a preset reference value,
A display device in which, when the folding information is less than a reference value, the compensation unit is turned off, and when the folding information is greater than the reference value, the compensation unit is turned on. In the 8th paragraph, the compensation data is,
A display device having data set to display a preset compensation pattern in the above folding area. In the 8th paragraph, the compensation data is,
A display device that is set to display a preset image in the above folding area. A display device, in claim 8, further comprising a low-frequency driving control unit that outputs a power control signal according to a normal operation mode operating at a reference frequency and a low-frequency operation mode operating below the reference frequency. In the 12th paragraph, the display panel,
Contains pixels connected to gate lines and data lines,
The above display device,
A display device further comprising a data driver that outputs a data signal to the data line and operates in the low-frequency operation mode by the power control signal. In the 13th paragraph, the distortion compensation unit,
A display device provided within the above data driver and turned on in the low-frequency operation mode to compensate for distortion in the folding area. In the 13th paragraph, the synthetic data output from the distortion compensation unit is supplied to the data driver,
The above data driver is a display device that converts the above synthetic data into the above data signal and supplies it to the above data line. A display device further comprising a light sensor unit for measuring ambient illuminance in the second paragraph. In the 16th paragraph, the distortion compensation unit,
A display device further comprising an illuminance comparator that compares the ambient illuminance measured through the illuminance sensor unit with a preset reference illuminance value. A display device in which, in clause 17, if the ambient illuminance is lower than the reference illuminance value, the compensation unit is turned off, and if the ambient illuminance is higher than the reference illuminance value, the compensation unit is turned on. A display device in claim 18, wherein the reference illuminance value is 200 nit. In the first paragraph, the display panel,
A display device comprising a flexible display panel including an organic light-emitting element. In the first paragraph, the folding information detection unit
A first folding information detection unit that detects folding information for a first detection area among the above folding areas; and
A display device including a second folding information detection unit that detects folding information for a second detection area among the above folding areas. In Article 21,
Input detection unit provided on the above display panel;
A first strain sensor disposed within the input detection unit corresponding to the first detection area; and
A display device including a second strain sensor arranged within the input detection unit corresponding to the second detection area. In the 22nd paragraph, the first folding information detection unit generates folding information for the first detection area according to the strain value measured through the first strain sensor,
The second folding information detection unit generates folding information for the second detection area according to the strain value measured through the second strain sensor.
A display device in which the distortion compensation unit performs different compensation for the first and second detection areas, respectively. A display panel that displays an image and defines a folding area that folds about a virtual folding axis on a plane and a plurality of non-folding areas adjacent to the folding area;
An input detection unit provided on the display panel and including a strain sensor that detects folding information of the display panel;
A control module that outputs a control signal based on folding information received from the strain sensor; and
A display device including a distortion compensation unit that compensates for image distortion occurring in the folding area due to a height difference between the first and second areas of the folding area when the display panel is in a non-folded state, according to the control signal.

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