Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device includes: a plurality of first electrodes electrically connected to pixel circuitry disposed on a substrate; a pixel defining film defining a plurality of opening regions exposing a portion of each of the plurality of first electrodes; a plurality of light-emitting layers, each of the plurality of opening regions disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode covering the plurality of light-emitting layers and the pixel defining film; an encapsulation layer disposed on the second electrode; and a plurality of light-shielding patterns disposed on the encapsulation layer between the plurality of opening regions adjacent along a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the information society, the requirements for display devices used to display images are increasing in many forms. For example, display devices are being used in a variety of electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart TVs.

[0003] The display device can be applied to automotive dashboards, center fascias, or center information displays (CIDs) on the dashboard. While such display devices can utilize viewing angle technology to ensure viewing angles, films that limit the light emission angle may be used as needed, for security reasons or to improve image display. For example, in conventional display devices, limiting the light emission angle of the display panel may lead to a decrease in the aperture ratio of the display panel, resulting in a decrease in brightness. Therefore, achieving high brightness results in increased power consumption. Furthermore, conventional display devices suffer from a decrease in lifespan with increasing power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device that uses multiple light-shielding patterns arranged on a light-emitting element layer to limit the light emission angle of each of multiple opening regions, thereby minimizing the decrease in brightness of the display panel while controlling the viewing angle.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device that incorporates multiple light-shielding patterns with controllable viewing angles into a display panel, thereby reducing power consumption while minimizing the decrease in brightness of the display panel and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0006] The subject matter of this invention is not limited to the subject matter mentioned above. Through the following description, those skilled in the art will be able to clearly understand other technical subject matter not mentioned.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment for solving the aforementioned problem includes: a plurality of first electrodes electrically connected to pixel circuitry disposed on a substrate; a pixel defining film defining a plurality of opening regions exposing a portion of each of the plurality of first electrodes; a plurality of light-emitting layers disposed on the first electrodes, each of the plurality of opening regions; a second electrode covering the plurality of light-emitting layers and the pixel defining film; an encapsulation layer disposed on the second electrode; and a plurality of light-shielding patterns disposed on the encapsulation layer between the plurality of opening regions adjacent to each other along a first direction.

[0008] The display device may further include: a light-transmitting film disposed on the encapsulation layer to overlap with the plurality of opening regions and, in plan view, surround each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns; and a transparent mask disposed on the light-transmitting film and, in plan view, surround each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns.

[0009] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns may include: a first portion surrounded by the light-transmitting film; and a second portion disposed on the first portion and surrounded by the transparent mask.

[0010] One side of the second part can be bent from one side of the first part.

[0011] The upper end of the transparent mask and the upper ends of the plurality of light-blocking patterns can be arranged on the same plane.

[0012] The transparent mask comprises a transparent oxide with dry etching resistance, and the etching rate of the transparent mask can be lower than that of the light-transmitting film.

[0013] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns and the light-transmitting film may be sandwiched between the encapsulation layer and the second electrode, thus being separated from the second electrode.

[0014] The plurality of light-shielding patterns can overlap with the pixel-defining film in the thickness direction.

[0015] The cross-sectional width of each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns may be narrower than the cross-sectional width of the pixel-defining film.

[0016] The display device further includes: a plurality of unit pixels, composed of a first sub-pixel to a third sub-pixel, wherein each of the first sub-pixel to the third sub-pixel is equipped with the plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of light-emitting layers, and a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode arranged in each of the plurality of opening regions, wherein the first opening region of the first sub-pixel and the second opening region of the second sub-pixel may be arranged on one side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region of the third sub-pixel is arranged on the other side of each of the plurality of unit pixels.

[0017] The display device further includes: a plurality of separators disposed on the pixel defining film between a portion of the plurality of opening regions, wherein each of the plurality of separators may be disposed between adjacent third opening regions in the first direction.

[0018] Each of the plurality of separators may be arranged between a light-shielding pattern arranged above the third opening region of a first unit pixel in the plurality of unit pixels and a light-shielding pattern arranged below the third opening region of a second unit pixel adjacent to the first unit pixel in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0019] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns can be bent with respect to the center point.

[0020] A display device according to an embodiment for solving the aforementioned problem includes: a plurality of first electrodes electrically connected to pixel circuitry disposed on a substrate; a pixel defining film defining a plurality of opening regions exposing a portion of each of the plurality of first electrodes; a plurality of light-emitting layers disposed on the first electrodes in each of the plurality of opening regions; a plurality of spacers disposed on the pixel defining film between portions of the opening regions in the plurality of opening regions; a second electrode covering the plurality of light-emitting layers, the pixel defining film, and the plurality of spacers; an encapsulation layer disposed on the second electrode; and a plurality of light-shielding patterns extending along a first direction and spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0021] The display device may further include: a light-transmitting film disposed on the encapsulation layer to overlap with the plurality of opening regions and, in plan view, surround each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns; and a transparent mask disposed on the light-transmitting film and, in plan view, surround each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns.

[0022] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns may include: a first portion surrounded by the light-transmitting film; and a second portion disposed on the first portion and surrounded by the transparent mask.

[0023] The upper end of the transparent mask and the upper ends of the plurality of light-blocking patterns can be arranged on the same plane.

[0024] The display device further includes: a plurality of unit pixels, composed of a first sub-pixel to a third sub-pixel, wherein each of the first sub-pixel to the third sub-pixel is equipped with the plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of light-emitting layers, and a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode arranged in each of the plurality of opening regions, wherein the first opening region of the first sub-pixel and the second opening region of the second sub-pixel may be arranged on one side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region of the third sub-pixel is arranged on the other side of each of the plurality of unit pixels.

[0025] A portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns may overlap with the plurality of opening regions in the thickness direction, and another portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns may overlap with the pixel defining film in the thickness direction.

[0026] The plurality of unit pixels may include a group of unit pixels consisting of a portion of the unit pixels, and the plurality of light-blocking patterns may be arranged between adjacent groups of unit pixels in the second direction.

[0027] The details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0028] According to the display device of the embodiment, a plurality of light-shielding patterns can be arranged on the encapsulation layer between a plurality of adjacent opening regions along a first direction. Furthermore, the plurality of light-shielding patterns can be formed directly on the encapsulation layer by including a first portion surrounded by a light-transmitting film and a second portion surrounded by a transparent mask. Therefore, the display device can minimize the luminance reduction of the display panel while controlling the viewing angle by utilizing the plurality of light-shielding patterns to limit the light emission angle of each of the plurality of opening regions.

[0029] According to the display device of the embodiment, multiple light-shielding patterns can extend along a first direction and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction, and can overlap with multiple opening regions or be arranged between adjacent unit pixel groups. Furthermore, the multiple light-shielding patterns can be directly formed on the encapsulation layer by including a first portion surrounded by a light-transmitting film and a second portion surrounded by a transparent mask. Therefore, the display device can incorporate multiple light-shielding patterns with controllable viewing angles into the display panel, thereby minimizing the brightness reduction of the display panel while reducing power consumption and manufacturing costs.

[0030] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those illustrated above, and more diverse effects are included in this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device.

[0033] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A floor plan of the display panel.

[0034] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 A block diagram of the display panel.

[0035] Figure 5 This is a plan view illustrating a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0037] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'.

[0038] Figures 8 to 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the view controllability of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figures 13 to 15 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0041] Figure 16 This is a plan view illustrating a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0042] Figure 17 This is a plan view showing a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0043] Figure 18 This is a plan view showing a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0044] [Symbol Explanation]

[0045] 10: Display device 100: Cover window

[0046] 200: Touch sensing device; 210: Touch circuit board

[0047] 220: Touch driver unit; 300: Display panel

[0048] 310: Display circuit board; 320: Display driver unit

[0049] 400: Lower panel component; 510: Scan drive unit

[0050] 520: Light-emitting control drive unit; 800: Lower cover.

[0051] UP11~UP44: Pixels 1-1 to 4-4

[0052] OR, OG, OB: First opening region to third opening region

[0053] LS: Multiple light-blocking patterns

[0054] S1, S2: First separator and second separator Detailed Implementation

[0055] References and Appendix Figure 1 The advantages and features of the invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clear from the detailed embodiments described below. However, the invention can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below. These embodiments are provided only to fully disclose the invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the invention of its scope, which is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0056] When referring to elements or layers "on" other elements or layers, this includes situations where other layers or elements are situated immediately above or in between other elements. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same constituent elements. The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc., disclosed in the drawings used to illustrate embodiments are exemplary, and therefore the invention is not limited to the content shown in the drawings.

[0057] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe multiple constituent elements, these constituent elements are clearly not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another. Therefore, the "first constituent element" mentioned below can obviously also be a "second constituent element" within the technical concept of this invention.

[0058] The various features of the multiple embodiments of the present invention can be combined or integrated with each other in part or in whole, and can be linked and driven in various ways in terms of technology. Furthermore, each embodiment can be implemented independently of each other or implemented together in a related relationship.

[0059] The following describes specific embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the display device.

[0061] In this specification, "upper," "top," and "above" refer to the upper direction relative to the display device, i.e., the Z-axis direction; "lower," "bottom," and "below" refer to the lower direction relative to the display device, i.e., the opposite direction of the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, "left," "right," "up," and "down" indicate the direction when viewing the display device on a flat surface. For example, "left" represents the opposite direction of the X-axis direction, "right" represents the X-axis direction, "up" represents the Y-axis direction, and "down" represents the opposite direction of the Y-axis direction.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2The display device 10, as a device for displaying dynamic or still images, can be used not only as a display screen for portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, smartwatches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs), but also as a display screen for various products such as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

[0063] The display device 10 can be formed into a rectangular shape when viewed from a planar perspective. For example, the display device 10 can have a rectangular planar shape including a short side in a first direction (X-axis direction) and a long side in a second direction (Y-axis direction). The corner where the short side in the first direction (X-axis direction) and the long side in the second direction (Y-axis direction) intersect can be formed into a right angle or into an arc with a predetermined curvature. The planar shape of the display device 10 is not limited to a rectangle, and can be formed into other polygons, circles, or ellipses. For example, although the display device 10 can be formed flat, it is not necessarily limited to this. As another example, the display device 10 can be formed to be curved with a predetermined curvature.

[0064] The display device 10 may include a cover window 100, a touch sensing device 200, a display panel 300, a lower panel component 400, and a lower cover 800.

[0065] The cover window 100 can be disposed on the upper part of the display panel 300 to cover the upper surface of the display panel 300. The cover window 100 can protect the upper surface of the display panel 300. For example, the cover window 100 can be attached to the touch sensing device 200 by means of an adhesive component. The adhesive component can be a transparent adhesive film (OCA: Optically Cleared Adhesive film) or a transparent adhesive resin (OCR: Optically Cleared Resin).

[0066] The cover window 100 may include: a transmissive portion for displaying the image of the display panel 300; and a light-shielding portion, corresponding to the area outside the transmissive portion. The light-shielding portion of the cover window 100 may be formed to be opaque so that the user cannot visually perceive unnecessary features other than the image of the display panel 300. Alternatively, the light-shielding portion of the cover window 100 may be formed with a decorative layer that presents a pattern to the user when no image is displayed. For example, the light-shielding portion of the cover window 100 may include a company logo or a pattern of various languages.

[0067] For example, the cover window 100 can be made of glass, sapphire, or plastic, but is not necessarily limited to these. The cover window 100 can be made rigid or flexible.

[0068] The touch sensing device 200 can be disposed between the cover window 100 and the display panel 300. The touch sensing device 200 can sense the user's touch position and can be implemented using capacitive methods such as self-capacitance or mutual capacitance, or infrared methods.

[0069] The touch sensing device 200 can be disposed on the upper substrate of the display panel 300. Alternatively, the touch sensing device 200 can be integrally formed with the display panel 300. In this case, the upper substrate of the display panel 300 can be omitted, and the touch sensing device 200 can be formed on the encapsulation film of the display panel 300. For example, the touch sensing device 200 may also include a pressure sensor capable of sensing the user's pressure.

[0070] For example, the display device 10 may also include a polarizing film disposed on the touch sensing device 200 to prevent the visibility of the image displayed on the display panel 300 from being reduced due to reflection of external light by the lines of the touch sensing device 200 or the lines of the display panel 300.

[0071] The touch sensing device 200 may include a touch circuit board 210 and a touch driving unit 220.

[0072] The touch circuit board 210 can be disposed on one side of the touch sensing device 200. For example, the touch circuit board 210 can be attached to a pad disposed on one side of the touch sensing device 200 via an anisotropic conductive film. The touch circuit board 210 may include touch connection terminals, which can be connected to a connector of the display circuit board 310. The touch circuit board 210 can be a flexible printed circuit board or a chip on film.

[0073] The touch driver unit 220 can apply a touch driving signal to the touch sensing device 200, receive sensing signals from the touch sensing device 200, and analyze the sensing signals to calculate the user's touch position. The touch driver unit 220 can be formed as an integrated circuit and mounted on the touch circuit board 210.

[0074] The display panel 300 may include a display circuit board 310 and a display driver unit 320.

[0075] The display circuit board 310 can be attached to one side of the display panel 300. For example, one end of the display circuit board 310 can be attached to a pad disposed on one side of the display panel 300 via an anisotropic conductive film. The other end of the display circuit board 310 can be attached to the lower part of the panel lower component 400 via an adhesive component. The touch circuit board 210 and the display circuit board 310 can be flexible printed circuit boards, which can be bent from the upper part to the lower part of the display panel 300. The display circuit board 310 can be connected to the touch connection terminal of the touch circuit board 210 via a connector.

[0076] The display driver unit 320 can supply signals and voltages for driving the display panel 300 via the display circuit board 310. For example, the display driver unit 320 can receive digital video data and timing signals from the outside and convert the digital video data into analog positive / negative polarity data voltages, which are then supplied to the data lines via pads. The display driver unit 320 can supply scan control signals for controlling the scan driver unit via scan control lines. Furthermore, the display driver unit 320 can supply the power supply voltage required to drive the sub-pixels of the display panel 300 to the pads.

[0077] The display driver unit 320 may be formed as an integrated circuit and mounted on the display circuit board 310, but it is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the display driver unit 320 may be attached to one side of the display panel 300.

[0078] The lower panel component 400 may be disposed at the lower part of the display panel 300. For example, the lower panel component 400 may include at least one of the following: a heat dissipation layer for effectively dissipating heat from the display panel 300; an electromagnetic wave shielding layer for shielding electromagnetic waves; a light-shielding layer for blocking light incident from the outside; and a buffer layer for absorbing impacts from the outside.

[0079] The lower cover 800 can be disposed below the lower panel component 400. The lower cover 800 can form the lower surface appearance of the display device 10. The lower cover 800 can be formed in a bowl shape to house the display panel 300. The sidewalls of the lower cover 800 can be connected to the edge of the cover window 100. In this case, the sidewalls of the lower cover 800 can be bonded to the edge of the cover window 100 by means of adhesive components.

[0080] The lower cover 800 can be fastened to the lower panel component 400 by means of fastening components such as screws, or attached to the lower panel component 400 by means of adhesive components such as adhesive or adhesive tape. The lower cover 800 can include plastic and / or metal. The lower cover 800 can include stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum (Al) to improve heat dissipation.

[0081] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A floor plan of the display panel. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 A block diagram of the display panel.

[0082] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The display panel 300 may include: a display area DA, which has sub-pixels SP to display images; and a non-display area NDA, which is the area surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may include sub-pixels SP, scan lines SL connected to the sub-pixels SP, light emission control lines EML, data lines DL, and voltage supply lines VL. The scan lines SL and EML are formed parallel to a first direction (X-axis direction), and the data lines DL and VL may be formed parallel to a second direction (Y-axis direction) that intersects the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0083] Each sub-pixel SP can be connected to at least one scan line SL, at least one data line DL, at least one light emission control line EML, and at least one voltage supply line VL. Figure 3 In this example, each sub-pixel SP can be connected to two scan lines SL, one data line DL, one light emission control line EML, and one voltage supply line VL, but is not necessarily limited to these. As another example, each sub-pixel SP can also be connected to three scan lines SL.

[0084] Each sub-pixel SP may include a driving transistor, at least one switching transistor, a light-emitting element, and at least one capacitor. The switching transistor can be turned on when a scan signal is applied from the scan line SL, thereby applying a data voltage from the data line DL to the gate electrode of the driving transistor. The driving transistor can supply a driving current to the light-emitting element based on the data voltage applied to the gate electrode, and the light-emitting element can emit light with a predetermined brightness depending on the magnitude of the driving current. For example, the driving transistor and at least one switching transistor may be a thin-film transistor. The light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) including a first electrode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a second electrode. The capacitor can constantly maintain the data voltage applied to the gate electrode of the driving transistor.

[0085] The non-display area NDA can be defined as the area extending from the outer edge of the display area DA to the edge of the display panel 300. The non-display area NDA may include: a scan drive unit 510 that applies a scan signal to the scan line SL; a light emission control drive unit 520 that applies a light emission signal to the light emission control line EML; a fan-out line FL located between the data line DL and the pad DP; and a pad DP connected to the display drive unit 320. For example, the pad DP may be disposed on one edge of the display panel 300.

[0086] The display panel 300 may include a scanning drive unit 510 and a light emission control drive unit 520.

[0087] The scan drive unit 510 can generate scan signals based on the scan control signal SCS and output the scan signals sequentially to the scan lines SL. The light emission control drive unit 520 can generate light emission signals based on the light emission control signal ECS and output the light emission signals sequentially to the light emission control lines EML.

[0088] The scan driving unit 510 and the light emission control driving unit 520 may each include multiple thin-film transistors. The scan driving unit 510 and the light emission control driving unit 520 may be formed on the same layer as the thin-film transistors of the sub-pixel SP. Figure 3 In this configuration, the scanning drive unit 510 may be arranged on the left side of the non-display area NDA, and the light emission control drive unit 520 may be arranged on the right side of the non-display area NDA, but is not necessarily limited to this.

[0089] Figure 4 In the display driver unit 320, a timing control unit 321, a data driver unit 322, and a power supply unit 323 may be included.

[0090] The timing control unit 321 can receive digital video data DATA and timing signals from the display circuit board 310. Based on the timing signals, the timing control unit 321 can generate a data control signal DCS to control the operation time of the data driving unit 322, a scan control signal SCS to control the operation time of the scan driving unit 510, and an emissive control signal ECS to control the operation time of the emissive control driving unit 520. The timing control unit 321 can supply the digital video data DATA and the data control signal DCS to the data driving unit 322. The timing control unit 321 can supply the scan control signal SCS to the scan driving unit 510 through multiple first scan control lines SCL1, and can supply the emissive control signal ECS to the emissive control driving unit 520 through multiple second scan control lines SCL2.

[0091] The data driver unit 322 can convert digital video data DATA into analog positive / negative data voltage and supply it to the data line DL through the fan-out line FL. The scan signal of the scan driver unit 510 can select the sub-pixel SP to which the data voltage will be supplied, and the data driver unit 322 can supply the data voltage to the selected sub-pixel SP.

[0092] The power supply unit 323 can generate a first driving voltage and supply it to the voltage supply line VL. The power supply unit 323 can also generate a second driving voltage and supply it to the second electrode (or cathode) of the light-emitting element of each sub-pixel SP. The first driving voltage can be a high-potential voltage used to drive the light-emitting element, and the second driving voltage can be a low-potential voltage used to drive the light-emitting element. For example, the first driving voltage can have a potential higher than the second driving voltage.

[0093] Figure 5 This is a plan view illustrating a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0094] Reference Figure 5 The display area DA of the display panel 300 may include multiple unit pixels. For example, the multiple unit pixels may include unit pixels UP11 to UP22 arranged in two rows and two columns. The display area DA may have more unit pixels as the resolution of the display device 10 increases. Therefore, the display area DA may include multiple unit pixels arranged in p rows and q columns (p and q are positive integers) depending on the resolution of the display device 10.

[0095] Unit pixels 1-1 to 2-2 (UP11 to UP22) may each include multiple sub-pixels representing different colors from each other. These multiple sub-pixels can be arranged by the intersection of n (n is a positive integer) data lines DL and m (m is a positive integer) scan lines SL. A unit pixel can house the pixel circuitry for each of the multiple sub-pixels. The pixel circuitry includes a driving transistor, at least one switching transistor, and at least one capacitor, thereby driving the light-emitting element of each of the multiple sub-pixels.

[0096] For example, a unit pixel may include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel. Each of the red, green, and blue sub-pixels can receive a data signal including color gradation information of red, green, or blue light from the data driving unit 322 and display light of the corresponding color.

[0097] Each of the first-1 unit pixels to the second-2 unit pixels UP11 to UP22 may include the first sub-pixel to the third sub-pixel. For example, the first sub-pixel may be a red sub-pixel, the second sub-pixel may be a green sub-pixel, and the third sub-pixel may be a blue sub-pixel, but it is not necessarily limited to these.

[0098] The first sub-pixel may include a first opening region OR, the second sub-pixel may include a second opening region OG, and the third sub-pixel may include a third opening region OB. The first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB can be defined by a pixel-defining film. The light-emitting element of each of the first to third sub-pixels can be arranged in each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB to emit light of a specific wavelength. To mix the light emitted from each of the multiple light-emitting elements to produce white light, the size of each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB can be adjusted. The first to third sub-pixels may have opening regions of different sizes to produce white light. For example, the size of the third opening region OB may be larger than the size of the first opening region OR or the second opening region OG, but it is not necessarily limited to this.

[0099] The first opening region OR and the second opening region OG of each of the plurality of unit pixels can be arranged on one side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region OB of each of the plurality of unit pixels can be arranged on the other side of each of the plurality of unit pixels. For example, the first opening region OR can be arranged on the upper left side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, the second opening region OG can be arranged on the lower left side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region OB can be arranged on the right side of each of the plurality of unit pixels. The upper side of the third opening region OB can be opposite to the first opening region OR, and the lower side of the third opening region OB can be opposite to the second opening region OG.

[0100] The display panel 300 may include a plurality of light-shielding patterns LS arranged between a plurality of opening regions and extending along a first direction (X-axis direction), and spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction. Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS may be arranged parallel to one side of each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB. For example, each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS may be arranged above each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, thereby blocking light emitted from the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB toward the upper side of the display panel 300. Furthermore, the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS do not overlap with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, and while blocking light emitted above or below the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, they do not block light emitted to the left or right side of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, thus minimizing the luminance reduction of the display panel 300. Therefore, multiple light-shielding patterns LS can limit the light emission angle of each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, and minimize the luminance drop of the display panel 300 while controlling the viewing angle.

[0101] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB in the second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, a portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent first opening regions OR and second opening regions OG in the second direction (Y-axis direction), thereby blocking light emitted from the first opening region OR or the second opening region OG to the upper or lower side of the display panel 300. Another portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent third opening regions OB in the second direction (Y-axis direction), thereby blocking light emitted from the third opening region OB to the upper or lower side of the display panel 300.

[0102] For example, the length of the first direction (X-axis direction) of multiple light-blocking patterns LS can correspond to the length of the first direction (X-axis direction) of each of the first opening regions OR, OG, OB to the third opening regions, but is not necessarily limited to this.

[0103] The display panel 300 may include a plurality of separators disposed between portions of the multiple opening regions. For example, the display panel 300 may include a plurality of first separators S1 disposed above the third opening region OB of the first-1 unit pixel UP11, and a plurality of second separators S2 disposed between the third opening region OB of the first-2 unit pixel UP12 and the third opening region OB of the second-2 unit pixel UP22. The plurality of first separators S1 and second separators S2 can mitigate the impact transmitted to the multiple unit pixels and compensate for the durability of the multiple unit pixels.

[0104] Each of the plurality of second separators S2 can be arranged between a light-shielding pattern LS arranged above the third opening region OB of a first unit pixel in the plurality of unit pixels and a light-shielding pattern LS arranged below the third opening region OB of a second unit pixel adjacent to the first unit pixel in the second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, each of the plurality of second separators S2 can be arranged between a light-shielding pattern LS arranged above the third opening region OB of the second-second unit pixel UP22 and a light-shielding pattern LS arranged below the third opening region OB of the first-second unit pixel UP12 adjacent to the second-second unit pixel UP22 in the second direction (Y-axis direction). Furthermore, the plurality of second separators S2 can overlap with a portion of the light-shielding patterns LS in the thickness direction. The plurality of light-shielding patterns LS and the plurality of second separators S2 are arranged between the third opening region OB of the first-second unit pixel UP12 and the third opening region OB of the second-second unit pixel UP22, thereby minimizing the brightness reduction of the display panel 300. Therefore, the display device 10 can control the viewing angle using multiple light-blocking patterns LS while minimizing the brightness drop of the display panel 300 and reducing power consumption.

[0105] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'.

[0106] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The display panel 300 may include a substrate SUB, a buffer layer BF, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EDL, a light-transmitting film LTF, a transparent mask TM, and multiple light-shielding patterns LS.

[0107] The substrate SUB can be a base substrate and can be formed using insulating materials such as polymer resins. For example, the substrate SUB can be a rigid substrate. As another example, the substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, and rolling. In the case of a flexible substrate, polyimide (PI) can be used, but it is not necessarily limited to this.

[0108] The buffer layer BF can be disposed on the substrate SUB. The buffer layer BF can be constructed using an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the buffer layer BF may include multiple inorganic films stacked alternately. The buffer layer BF can be configured as a multiple film having at least one inorganic film selected from silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and aluminum oxide layers stacked alternately, but is not necessarily limited to this.

[0109] The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may include: a first transistor to a third transistor T1, T2, T3; a gate insulating film GI; an interlayer insulating film (ILD); a protective layer PAS; and a first anode connection electrode to a third anode connection electrode ANDE1, ANDE2, ANDE3.

[0110] The first transistor T1 can be disposed on the buffer layer BF and can constitute the pixel circuit of the first sub-pixel. For example, the first transistor T1 can be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of the first sub-pixel. The first transistor T1 may include a semiconductor layer ACT1, a gate electrode GE1, a source electrode SE1, and a drain electrode DE1.

[0111] Semiconductor layer ACT1 can be disposed on buffer layer BF. Semiconductor layer ACT1 can overlap with gate electrode GE1, source electrode SE1, and drain electrode DE1. Semiconductor layer ACT1 can be in direct contact with source electrode SE1 and drain electrode DE1, and can be opposite gate electrode GE1 separated by gate insulating film GI.

[0112] The gate electrode GE1 can be disposed on top of the gate insulating film GI. The gate electrode GE1 can overlap with the semiconductor layer ACT1, separated from the gate insulating film GI.

[0113] The source electrode SE1 and drain electrode DE1 can be arranged spaced apart from each other on the interlayer insulating film ILD. The source electrode SE1 can contact one end of the semiconductor layer ACT1 through contact holes arranged in the gate insulating film GI and the interlayer insulating film ILD. The drain electrode DE1 can contact the other end of the semiconductor layer ACT1 through contact holes arranged in the gate insulating film GI and the interlayer insulating film ILD. The drain electrode DE1 can be connected to the first electrode AND1 of the first light-emitting element EL1 through the first anode connection electrode ANDE1.

[0114] The second transistor T2 can be disposed on the buffer layer BF and can constitute the pixel circuit of the second sub-pixel. For example, the second transistor T2 can be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of the second sub-pixel. The second transistor T2 may include a semiconductor layer ACT2, a gate electrode GE2, a source electrode SE2, and a drain electrode DE2. The drain electrode DE2 of the second transistor T2 can be connected to the first electrode AND2 of the second light-emitting element EL2 through the second anode connection electrode ANDE2.

[0115] The third transistor T3 can be disposed on the buffer layer BF and can constitute the pixel circuit of the third sub-pixel. For example, the third transistor T3 can be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of the third sub-pixel. The third transistor T3 may include a semiconductor layer ACT3, a gate electrode GE3, a source electrode SE3, and a drain electrode DE3. The drain electrode DE3 of the third transistor T3 can be connected to the first electrode AND3 of the third light-emitting element EL3 through the third anode connection electrode ANDE3.

[0116] The gate insulating film GI can be disposed on top of the semiconductor layers ACT1, ACT2, and ACT3. For example, the gate insulating film GI can be disposed on top of the semiconductor layers ACT1, ACT2, and ACT3 and the buffer layer BF, and can insulate the semiconductor layers ACT1, ACT2, and ACT3 from the gate electrodes GE1, GE2, and GE3. The gate insulating film GI may include contact holes through which the source electrodes SE1, SE2, and SE3 pass and contact holes through which the drain electrodes DE1, DE2, and DE3 pass.

[0117] The interlayer insulating film (ILD) can be disposed on top of the gate electrodes GE1, GE2, and GE3. For example, the ILD may include contact holes through which the source electrodes SE1, SE2, and SE3 pass and contact holes through which the drain electrodes DE1, DE2, and DE3 pass. The contact holes of the ILD can be connected to the contact holes of the gate insulating film GI.

[0118] The protective layer PAS can be disposed on top of the first to third transistors T1, T2, and T3, thereby protecting the first to third transistors T1, T2, and T3. For example, the protective layer PAS may include contact holes through which the first anode connection electrode to the third anode connection electrode ANDE1, ANDE2, and ANDE3 pass.

[0119] The light-emitting element layer (EDL) may include a planarization layer (OC), first to third light-emitting elements (EL1, EL2, EL3), a pixel-defining film (PDL), a plurality of first separators (S1) and second separators (S2), and an encapsulation layer (TFE).

[0120] The planarization layer OC can be disposed on top of the protective layer PAS, thereby planarizing the upper ends of the first to third transistors T1, T2, and T3. For example, the planarization layer OC may include contact holes through which the first electrodes AND1, AND2, and AND3 of the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3 pass.

[0121] The first light-emitting element EL1 can be disposed on the first transistor T1. The first light-emitting element EL1 may include a first electrode AND1, a light-emitting layer E1, and a second electrode CAT.

[0122] The first electrode AND1 can be disposed on the upper part of the planarization layer OC. For example, the first electrode AND1 can be disposed to overlap with the first opening region OR defined by the pixel defining film PDL. Furthermore, the first electrode AND1 can be connected to the drain electrode DE1 of the first transistor T1 through the first anode connection electrode ANDE1.

[0123] The light-emitting layer E1 can be disposed on top of the first electrode AND1. The light-emitting layer E1 may include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, a light-receiving layer, an electron blocking layer, an electron transport layer, and so on. For example, the light-emitting layer E1 can be an organic light-emitting layer formed of organic materials, but it is not necessarily limited to this. When the light-emitting layer E1 is equivalent to an organic light-emitting layer, the first transistor T1 applies a predetermined voltage to the first electrode AND1 of the first light-emitting element EL1. If the second electrode CAT of the first light-emitting element EL1 receives a common voltage or a cathode voltage, holes and electrons can move to the organic light-emitting layer E1 through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively. Holes and electrons can combine with each other in the organic light-emitting layer E1 to emit light.

[0124] The second electrode CAT can be positioned above the light-emitting layer E1. For example, the second electrode CAT can be a common electrode configuration for the entire sub-pixel SP, rather than being differentiated per sub-pixel SP. Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the process, the second electrode CAT can be arranged on the light-emitting layers E1, E2, and E3 in the opening regions OR, OG, and OB, while it can be arranged on the pixel-limiting film PDL or the second separator S2 in the non-opening regions.

[0125] The second light-emitting element EL2 can be disposed on the second transistor T2. The second light-emitting element EL2 may include a first electrode AND2, a light-emitting layer E2, and a second electrode CAT.

[0126] The first electrode AND2 can be disposed on top of the planarization layer OC. For example, the first electrode AND2 can be disposed to overlap with the second opening region OG defined by the pixel defining film PDL. Furthermore, the first electrode AND2 can be connected to the drain electrode DE2 of the second transistor T2 via the second anode connecting electrode ANDE2. The light-emitting layer E2 can be disposed on top of the first electrode AND2, and the second electrode CAT can be disposed on top of the light-emitting layer E2.

[0127] The third light-emitting element EL3 can be disposed on the third transistor T3. The third light-emitting element EL3 may include a first electrode AND3, a light-emitting layer E3, and a second electrode CAT.

[0128] The first electrode AND3 can be disposed on top of the planarization layer OC. For example, the first electrode AND3 can be disposed to overlap with the third opening region OB defined by the pixel defining film PDL. Furthermore, the first electrode AND3 can be connected to the drain electrode DE3 of the third transistor T3 via the third anode connecting electrode ANDE3. The light-emitting layer E3 can be disposed on top of the first electrode AND3, and the second electrode CAT can be disposed on top of the light-emitting layer E3.

[0129] The pixel-defining film (PDL) can define the first opening region to the third opening region OR, OG, OB. The PDL can also separate and insulate the first electrodes AND1, AND2, AND3 of each of the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, EL3.

[0130] For example, a pixel-defined film (PDL) may include light-absorbing materials such as black pigments or black dyes. A PDL can minimize external light reflected at the boundaries of the opening region by including light-absorbing materials.

[0131] The first separator S1 and the second separator S2 can be disposed on the pixel defining film PDL. The first separator S1 and the second separator S2 can constantly maintain the spacing between the substrate SUB and the transparent mask TM of the display panel 300. The first separator S1 and the second separator S2 can mitigate the impact transmission between the substrate SUB and the transparent mask TM. For example, the first separator S1 and the second separator S2 can compensate for the durability of the display device 10 by including materials with excellent impact absorption and flexibility.

[0132] The encapsulation layer TFE can be disposed on the second electrode CAT to cover the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3. The encapsulation layer TFE can prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3.

[0133] The light-transmitting film LTF is arranged on the encapsulation layer TFE to overlap with multiple opening regions and, in plan view, can surround each of multiple light-shielding patterns LS. The light-transmitting film LTF can be separated from the second electrode CAT by sandwiching the encapsulation layer TFE between it and the second electrode CAT. For example, the light-transmitting film LTF can be implemented using an organic film including at least one of polyimide-based resin, acrylic-based resin, and siloxane-based resin. The light-transmitting film LTF allows light emitted from the first opening region to the third opening region OR, OG, OB to be transmitted. The light-transmitting film LTF can be patterned according to the shape of the transparent mask TM. The patterned light-transmitting film LTF, in plan view, can surround a first portion LS1 of the light-shielding pattern LS and can determine the pattern of the light-shielding pattern LS. The light-transmitting film LTF can act as a mold that determines the pattern of the light-shielding pattern LS during the formation of the light-shielding pattern LS.

[0134] A transparent mask TM can be arranged on a light-transmitting film LTF to overlap with multiple opening regions and, from a planar perspective, surround a light-shielding pattern LS. The transparent mask TM, together with the light-transmitting film LTF, allows light emitted from the first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB to be transmitted. The transparent mask TM, from a planar perspective, can surround a second portion LS2 of the light-shielding pattern LS, and the pattern of the light-shielding pattern LS can be determined. The transparent mask TM can be formed on the light-transmitting film LTF before patterning and can act as a mask during the etching process of the light-transmitting film LTF. For example, the transparent mask TM can include a transparent oxide with dry etching resistance. For example, the etching rate of the transparent mask TM can be lower than that of the light-transmitting film LTF. The transparent mask TM can be, but is not limited to, indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO) as the transparent oxide.

[0135] Multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged on the encapsulation layer TFE and can overlap with the pixel defining film PDL in the thickness direction. Each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be spaced apart from the second electrode CAT by the encapsulation layer TFE sandwiched between it and the second electrode CAT. For example, the multiple light-shielding patterns LS may include a material that absorbs or blocks light (e.g., black resin or black matrix material).

[0136] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS may include: a first portion LS1, surrounded by a light-transmitting film LTF; and a second portion LS2, disposed on the first portion LS1 and surrounded by a transparent mask TM. The side of the light-transmitting film LTF may face the side of the first portion LS1, and the side of the transparent mask TM may face the side of the second portion LS2. For example, one side (or side face) of the second portion LS2 may be bent from one side (or side face) of the first portion LS1. The transparent mask TM may be formed on the patterned light-transmitting film LTF, which may be patterned according to the pattern of the transparent mask TM. Therefore, the transparent mask TM and the light-transmitting film LTF may be formed by separate patterning processes, and the side faces of the transparent mask TM and the light-transmitting film LTF may be offset from each other.

[0137] The upper ends of multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged on the same plane as the upper end of the transparent mask TM. For example, after the light-transmitting film LTF is patterned, the material constituting the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can fill the empty space surrounded by the light-transmitting film LTF and the transparent mask TM, and the material constituting the multiple light-shielding patterns LS arranged above the transparent mask TM can be removed. The upper ends of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be planarized with reference to the upper end of the transparent mask TM by a polishing process. For example, the upper ends of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be planarized by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, but are not necessarily limited to this.

[0138] In this way, the multiple light-shielding patterns LS are not manufactured using a separate film from the display panel 300 and attached to the display panel 300, but can be directly formed on the encapsulation layer TFE of the display panel 300. The multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be formed directly on the encapsulation layer TFE without the need for a separate substrate or bonding components during the formation process. The multiple light-shielding patterns LS are arranged between multiple opening areas without overlapping with them, thus minimizing the brightness reduction of the display panel 300. Therefore, the display device 10 can minimize the brightness reduction of the display panel 300 and reduce power consumption by incorporating multiple light-shielding patterns LS that control the viewing angle into the display panel 300, and can also reduce the thickness of the display panel 300 while saving manufacturing costs.

[0139] The height, thickness, shape, and position of each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can determine the light emission angle of each of the multiple opening regions. For example, as the height of the light-shielding pattern LS increases, the light emission angle may be limited, and as the thickness of the light-shielding pattern LS increases, the brightness of the display panel 300 may decrease. The shape and position of the light-shielding pattern LS can prevent light emitted from the multiple opening regions from traveling in a specific direction. Furthermore, the cross-sectional width of the light-shielding pattern LS can be narrower than the cross-sectional width of the pixel-defining film PDL, but is not necessarily limited to this.

[0140] Figures 8 to 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0141] Reference Figure 8 The material constituting the light-transmitting film LTF can be arranged on the encapsulation layer TFE of the light-emitting element layer EDL. The thickness of the light-transmitting film LTF can be determined based on the height of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS to be formed subsequently. For example, the light-transmitting film LTF can be realized using an organic film comprising at least one of polyimide-based resin, acrylic-based resin, and siloxane-based resin.

[0142] A transparent mask™ can be arranged on a light-transmitting film LTF to overlap with multiple opening regions. The transparent mask™ can be formed on the light-transmitting film LTF before patterning and can function as a mask during the etching process of the light-transmitting film LTF. For example, the transparent mask™ can include a transparent oxide with dry etching resistance. The transparent mask™ can include, but is not limited to, indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO) as the transparent oxide.

[0143] Reference Figure 9 The light-transmitting film LTF can be patterned through an etching process using a transparent mask TM as the mask. The light-transmitting film LTF can be patterned according to the pattern of the transparent mask TM. For example, the light-transmitting film LTF can be patterned through a dry etching process, but is not necessarily limited to this. The transparent mask TM and the light-transmitting film LTF can be formed through separate patterning processes, and the sides of the transparent mask TM and the sides of the light-transmitting film LTF can be offset from each other.

[0144] Reference Figure 10After the light-transmitting film (LTF) is patterned, the material constituting multiple light-shielding patterns (LS) can fill the empty space surrounded by the LTF and the transparent mask (TM). The material constituting the multiple light-shielding patterns (LS) can be arranged with a height greater than the height of the transparent mask (TM) from the substrate (SUB). For example, the material constituting the multiple light-shielding patterns (LS) can include black resin or black matrix material.

[0145] Reference Figure 11 The material constituting the multiple light-shielding patterns LS arranged higher than the transparent mask TM can be removed. The upper ends of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be planarized with reference to the upper end of the transparent mask TM through a polishing process. For example, the upper ends of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be planarized by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, but it is not necessarily limited to this. Therefore, the upper ends of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged on the same plane as the upper end of the transparent mask TM.

[0146] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the view controllability of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0147] Reference Figure 12 Each of the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3 can emit light of a specific wavelength L through the first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB. For example, light emitted perpendicularly from the plane on which the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3 are arranged can be directed toward the front of the display device 10.

[0148] As another example, light L emitted from a plane arranged with the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3 at a first angle θ1 can be absorbed by multiple light-shielding patterns LS. That is, light L emitted at an angle less than the first angle θ1 can be absorbed by multiple light-shielding patterns LS, and the display device 10 can limit the viewing angle at the corresponding angle.

[0149] As another example, light L emitted from the plane where the first to third light-emitting elements EL1, EL2, and EL3 are arranged at a second angle θ2 can be emitted in the corresponding direction without being absorbed by the multiple light-shielding patterns LS. That is, light L emitted at an angle greater than the second angle θ2 can be unabsorbed by the multiple light-shielding patterns LS and corresponds to the viewing angle range of the display device 10.

[0150] Therefore, the display device 10 can minimize the decrease in brightness of the display panel 300, prevent the increase in thickness of the display panel 300, and control the viewing angle of the display device 10.

[0151] Figures 13 to 15This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing process of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0152] Reference Figure 13 The black organic film BOF can be disposed on the TFE encapsulation layer of the light-emitting element layer EDL. The black organic film BOF can be patterned to form multiple light-shielding patterns LS, and the thickness of the black organic film BOF can be determined based on the height of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS to be formed subsequently. For example, the black organic film BOF may include black resin or black matrix material.

[0153] Black organic film BOFs can include photosensitive resins. For example, the photosensitive resin of a black organic film BOF can be a positive type, in which a solvent is used to leave a residue on the portion exposed to light after exposure. As another example, the photosensitive resin of a black organic film BOF can be a negative type, in which a solvent is used to leave a residue on the portion not exposed to light after exposure.

[0154] exist Figure 13 In this process, the mask can be selected as the portion of the black organic film BOF exposed to light. The black organic film BOF can be exposed to light passing through the mask. For example, the pattern of the mask can determine the pattern of each of multiple light-shielding patterns LS.

[0155] Reference Figure 14 The black organic film BOF is dissolved by a solvent after being exposed to light, thus leaving a residue of the light-exposed portion of the black organic film BOF. The residue of the black organic film BOF can form multiple light-shielding patterns LS.

[0156] Reference Figure 15 The light-transmitting film (LTF) can cover the encapsulation layer (TFE) of the light-emitting element layer (EDL) and multiple light-shielding patterns (LS). For example, the LTF can be implemented using an organic film comprising at least one of polyimide-based resin, acrylic-based resin, and siloxane-based resin. The LTF allows light emitted from the first opening region to the third opening regions OR, OG, and OB to be transmitted.

[0157] Figure 16 This is a plan view illustrating a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 16 The display device shown is in Figure 5 In the display device shown, the configuration of multiple light-shielding patterns LS is changed. Configurations that are the same as those described above will be briefly described or omitted.

[0158] Reference Figure 16 Each of the first to second unit pixels UP11 to UP22 may include a first sub-pixel to a third sub-pixel. The first sub-pixel may include a first opening region OR, the second sub-pixel may include a second opening region OG, and the third sub-pixel may include a third opening region OB. The first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB may be defined by means of a pixel defining film. The light-emitting element of each of the first to third sub-pixels may be arranged in each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB to emit light of a specific wavelength.

[0159] Multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between multiple opening regions. For example, each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged above each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, thereby blocking light emitted from the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB to the upper side of the display panel 300. Furthermore, the multiple light-shielding patterns LS do not overlap with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, and while blocking light emitted above or below the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, they do not block light emitted to the left or right side of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, thus minimizing the luminance reduction of the display panel 300. Therefore, the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can limit the light emission angle of each of the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB, and minimize the luminance reduction of the display panel 300 while controlling the viewing angle.

[0160] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent first to third opening regions OR, OG, and OB in the second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, a portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent first opening regions OR and second opening regions OG in the second direction (Y-axis direction), thereby blocking light emitted from the first opening region OR or the second opening region OG to the upper or lower side of the display panel 300. Another portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent third opening regions OB in the second direction (Y-axis direction), thereby blocking light emitted from the third opening region OB to the upper or lower side of the display panel 300.

[0161] Each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be bent relative to its center point. Figure 16In this design, one end of each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can extend from the center point to the lower left, and the other end of each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can extend from the center point to the lower right. The center point of each of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS can be positioned above the two ends of the light-shielding patterns LS.

[0162] The shapes of multiple light-blocking patterns LS are not limited to Figure 16 The shape of the light-shielding pattern LS shown can be modified as needed based on the shape of multiple opening areas, the control of viewing angle, and other aspects of the display panel 300.

[0163] Figure 17 This is a plan view showing a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 17 The display device shown is in Figure 5 and Figure 16 In the display device shown, the configuration of multiple light-shielding patterns LS is changed. Configurations that are the same as those described above will be briefly described or omitted.

[0164] Reference Figure 17 Each of the first-1 unit pixels to the second-2 unit pixels UP11 to UP22 may include a first sub-pixel to a third sub-pixel. The first sub-pixel may include a first opening region OR, the second sub-pixel may include a second opening region OG, and the third sub-pixel may include a third opening region OB.

[0165] Multiple light-shielding patterns LS can extend along a first direction (X-axis direction) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction. The multiple light-shielding patterns LS may include multiple light-shielding patterns LS corresponding to the first opening region to the third opening region OR, OG, OB, respectively.

[0166] For example, a portion of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS may overlap with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB in the thickness direction. Another portion of the multiple light-shielding patterns LS may not overlap with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB in the thickness direction, but rather overlap with the pixel-defining film PDL in the thickness direction.

[0167] For example, the length of the first direction (X-axis direction) of each of the multiple light-blocking patterns LS can correspond to the length of the first direction (X-axis direction) of each of the first opening regions OR, OG, OB to the third opening regions, but is not necessarily limited to this.

[0168] Figure 17The display device 10 shown includes a portion of a light-shielding pattern LS that overlaps with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB and another portion of a light-shielding pattern LS that overlaps with the pixel defining film PDL, thereby comparing Figure 5 or Figure 16 The display device 10 shown can further limit the viewing angle. Furthermore, Figure 17 The display device 10 shown can utilize a ratio Figure 5 or Figure 16 The display device 10 shown has multiple light-shielding patterns LS with a low height (e.g., length in the third or Z-axis direction) to achieve [the desired effect]. Figure 5 or Figure 16 The display device 10 shown has the same viewing angle.

[0169] Figure 18 This is a plan view showing a plurality of unit pixels of a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 18 The display device shown is in Figure 5 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In the display device shown, the configuration of multiple light-shielding patterns LS is changed. Configurations that are the same as those described above will be briefly described or omitted.

[0170] Reference Figure 18 The display area DA of the display panel 300 may include multiple unit pixels. For example, the multiple unit pixels may include unit pixels UP11 to UP44 arranged in four rows and four columns.

[0171] Each of the first-1 unit pixels to the fourth-4 unit pixels UP11 to UP44 may include a first sub-pixel to a third sub-pixel of a different color from each other. The first sub-pixel may include a first opening region OR, the second sub-pixel may include a second opening region OG, and the third sub-pixel may include a third opening region OB.

[0172] Multiple unit pixels can include a group of unit pixels composed of a subset of unit pixels. For example, multiple unit pixels can include: a first group of unit pixels composed of unit pixels 1-1 to 2-4 (UP11 to UP24); and a second group of unit pixels composed of unit pixels 3-1 to 4-4 (UP31 to UP44). The first group of unit pixels and the second group of unit pixels can be adjacent in a second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0173] Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can extend along a first direction (X-axis direction) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction. Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between adjacent unit pixel groups in the second direction (Y-axis direction). For example, each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged between a first unit pixel group and a second unit pixel group. Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can be arranged at the boundary of adjacent unit pixel groups in the second direction and can not overlap with the first to third opening regions OR, OG, OB. Therefore, the plurality of light-shielding patterns LS can block light emitted from the unit pixel group to the upper or lower side of the display panel 300.

[0174] therefore, Figure 18 The display device 10 shown can achieve this by minimizing the arrangement of multiple light-shielding patterns LS compared to Figure 5 , Figure 16 or Figure 17 The display device 10 shown minimizes the brightness reduction of the display panel 300.

[0175] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as exemplary in all respects, and not limiting.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Multiple first electrodes are electrically connected to pixel circuits arranged on the substrate; A pixel-defining film defines a plurality of opening regions that expose a portion of each of the plurality of first electrodes; Multiple light-emitting layers, in each of the multiple opening regions, are arranged on the first electrode; The second electrode covers the plurality of light-emitting layers and the pixel-defining film; An encapsulation layer is disposed on the second electrode; Multiple light-shielding patterns are arranged on the encapsulation layer between the multiple opening regions adjacent to each other along a first direction; A light-transmitting film is arranged on the encapsulation layer to overlap with the plurality of opening regions and, when viewed from a plane, surrounds each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns; as well as A transparent mask is disposed on the light-transmitting film and, viewed from a planar perspective, surrounds each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns. The transparent mask comprises a transparent oxide with dry etching resistance, and the etching rate of the transparent mask is lower than that of the light transmission film.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of light-blocking patterns includes: The first part is surrounded by the light-transmitting film; and The second part is arranged on the first part and is surrounded by the transparent mask.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, One side of the second part is bent from one side of the first part.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The upper end of the transparent mask and the upper ends of the plurality of light-blocking patterns are arranged on the same plane.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns and the light-transmitting film is sandwiched between itself and the second electrode with the encapsulation layer, thus being separated from the second electrode.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The plurality of light-shielding patterns overlap with the pixel-defining film in the thickness direction.

7. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cross-sectional width of each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns is narrower than the cross-sectional width of the pixel-defining film.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Also includes: Multiple unit pixels are composed of first sub-pixels to third sub-pixels, wherein each of the first to third sub-pixels is equipped with the multiple first electrodes, the multiple light-emitting layers, and the second electrodes arranged in each of the multiple opening regions. The first opening region of the first sub-pixel and the second opening region of the second sub-pixel are arranged on one side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region of the third sub-pixel is arranged on the other side of each of the plurality of unit pixels.

9. The display device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, Also includes: Multiple separators are arranged on the pixel defining film between a portion of the opening regions of the multiple opening regions. Each of the plurality of separators is arranged between adjacent third opening regions in the first direction.

10. The display device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, Each of the plurality of separators is arranged between a light-blocking pattern above the third opening region of a first unit pixel in the plurality of unit pixels and a light-blocking pattern below the third opening region of a second unit pixel adjacent to the first unit pixel in the first direction.

11. The display device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns is curved with respect to its center point.

12. A display device, comprising: Multiple first electrodes are electrically connected to pixel circuits arranged on the substrate; A pixel-defining film defines a plurality of opening regions that expose a portion of each of the plurality of first electrodes; Multiple light-emitting layers, in each of the multiple opening regions, are arranged on the first electrode; Multiple separators are arranged on the pixel defining film between a portion of the multiple opening regions; The second electrode covers the plurality of light-emitting layers, the pixel defining film, and the plurality of separators; An encapsulation layer is disposed on the second electrode; Multiple light-blocking patterns extend along a first direction and are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; A light-transmitting film is arranged on the encapsulation layer to overlap with the plurality of opening regions and, when viewed from a plane, surrounds each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns; as well as A transparent mask is disposed on the light-transmitting film and, viewed from a planar perspective, surrounds each of the plurality of light-shielding patterns. The transparent mask comprises a transparent oxide with dry etching resistance, and the etching rate of the transparent mask is lower than that of the light transmission film.

13. The display device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, Each of the plurality of light-blocking patterns includes: The first part is surrounded by the light-transmitting film; and The second part is arranged on the first part and is surrounded by the transparent mask.

14. The display device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The upper end of the transparent mask and the upper ends of the plurality of light-blocking patterns are arranged on the same plane.

15. The display device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, Also includes: Multiple unit pixels are composed of first sub-pixels to third sub-pixels, wherein each of the first to third sub-pixels is equipped with the multiple first electrodes, the multiple light-emitting layers, and the second electrodes arranged in each of the multiple opening regions. The first opening region of the first sub-pixel and the second opening region of the second sub-pixel are arranged on one side of each of the plurality of unit pixels, and the third opening region of the third sub-pixel is arranged on the other side of each of the plurality of unit pixels.

16. The display device as claimed in claim 15, wherein, A portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns overlaps with the plurality of opening regions in the thickness direction, and another portion of the plurality of light-shielding patterns overlaps with the pixel defining film in the thickness direction.

17. The display device as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The plurality of unit pixels includes a group of unit pixels consisting of a subset of unit pixels. The plurality of light-shielding patterns are arranged between adjacent unit pixel groups in the second direction.

Images