Display device

Abstract

The present invention discloses a display device. The display device has excellent luminous efficiency and includes: a display portion including pixels defined by a pixel defining layer; and a touch portion located on the display portion. The touch portion includes: a first touch electrode overlapping with the pixel defining layer; a first organic layer located on the first touch electrode; a second touch electrode contacting the first touch electrode; a second organic layer located on the second touch electrode; and a high refractive index layer located on the first organic layer, the second touch electrode, and the second organic layer. The high refractive index layer is arranged between adjacent second touch electrodes in a plan view and includes a first convex surface protruding toward the display portion and overlapping with one of the pixels.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2018 - 0004298, filed on January 12, 2018 with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] Embodiments of the inventive concept relate to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device having excellent luminous efficiency. Background art

[0004] An organic light - emitting diode (“OLED”) display device is a self - emitting display device that uses OLEDs that emit light to display images. OLED display devices have drawn attention because of their characteristics such as low power consumption, high brightness, and high response speed. Such an OLED display device has a multi - layer structure including OLEDs. Each layer included in the OLED display device includes different materials and has different refractive indices. Since each layer has different refractive indices as described above, light reflection or total reflection occurs at the layer - to - layer interface. Since a part of the light generated in the OLED is extinguished by such light reflection or total reflection, the OLED display device has low luminous efficiency. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the luminous efficiency of the OLED display device.

[0005] It will be understood that this background art section is intended to provide a useful background for understanding the technology, and as disclosed herein, the background art section may include concepts, ideas, or knowledge that do not constitute part of what was known or understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art before the effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the invention

[0006] Embodiments of the inventive concept may relate to a display device having excellent luminous efficiency.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display part including pixels defined by a pixel defining layer; and a touch part located on the display part. The touch part includes: a first touch electrode overlapping the pixel defining layer; a first organic layer located on the first touch electrode; a second touch electrode contacting the first touch electrode; a second organic layer located on the second touch electrode; and a high - refractive - index layer located on the first organic layer, the second touch electrode, and the second organic layer. The high - refractive - index layer is arranged between adjacent second touch electrodes in a plan view and includes a first protruding surface protruding toward the display part and overlapping one of the pixels.

[0008] The first organic layer may have a refractive index substantially equal to that of the second organic layer. The high refractive index layer may have a refractive index higher than that of the first organic layer.

[0009] The first convex surface may contact at least one of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

[0010] The touch portion may further include a third organic layer disposed on the high refractive index layer and having a refractive index substantially equal to that of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

[0011] In a plan view, the high refractive index layer may be disposed between the second touch electrodes and include a second convex surface protruding toward the third organic layer.

[0012] The second convex surface may contact the third organic layer.

[0013] In a plan view, the second convex surface may overlap with the first convex surface.

[0014] The touch portion may further include a substrate and an adhesive layer disposed between the substrate and the third organic layer.

[0015] The display portion may include: a first pixel electrode; a light-emitting layer located on the first pixel electrode; and a second pixel electrode located on the light-emitting layer.

[0016] The high refractive index layer may be a color filter having a color substantially the same as the color of the light emitted from the light-emitting layer.

[0017] The high refractive index layer may be a color filter having one of the colors red, green, and blue.

[0018] The first convex surface of the high refractive index layer may overlap with the light-emitting layer.

[0019] The first touch electrode and the second touch electrode may overlap with the pixel defining layer.

[0020] The touch portion may further include a light-shielding portion disposed on the second organic layer and overlapping with the pixel defining layer.

[0021] The display portion may further include a thin film encapsulation layer disposed on the second pixel electrode and the pixel defining layer.

[0022] The display portion may further include an inorganic layer between the touch portion and the thin film encapsulation layer.

[0023] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display portion including a pixel region defined by a plurality of pixel defining layers; and a touch portion disposed on the display portion. The touch portion includes: a first touch electrode overlapping with the pixel defining layer; a first organic layer disposed on the first touch electrode; a second touch electrode disposed on the first organic layer; a second organic layer disposed on the second touch electrode; a high refractive index layer disposed on the first organic layer, the second touch electrode, and the second organic layer; and a third organic layer disposed on the high refractive index layer and having a refractive index substantially equal to those of the first organic layer and the second organic layer. The high refractive index layer is disposed between adjacent second touch electrodes in a plan view, and includes a first convex surface protruding toward the third organic layer and overlapping with the pixel region. The high refractive index layer has a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer, the second organic layer, and the third organic layer.

[0024] The first convex surface may contact the third organic layer.

[0025] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display portion including a pixel region defined by a plurality of pixel defining layers; and a touch portion disposed on the display portion. The touch portion includes: a first touch electrode overlapping with the pixel defining layer; a first organic layer disposed on the first touch electrode; a second touch electrode disposed on the first organic layer; a second organic layer disposed on the second touch electrode; a high refractive index layer disposed on the first organic layer, the second touch electrode, and the second organic layer; and a third organic layer disposed on the high refractive index layer. The high refractive index layer is disposed between adjacent second touch electrodes in a plan view, and includes a first concave surface having a lens shape and overlapping with the pixel region. The high refractive index layer has a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer, the second organic layer, and the third organic layer.

[0026] The first concave surface may contact the third organic layer.

[0027] The foregoing is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit in any way. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. Description of the Drawings

[0028] A more complete understanding of the inventive concept will become apparent by describing embodiments of the inventive concept in detail with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device illustrating an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0030] Figure 2 is a plan view of a part of a display portion illustrating an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0031] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a display section according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0032] Figure 4A is a plan view showing a first touch electrode according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0033] Figure 4B is a plan view showing a second touch electrode according to an embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0034] Figure 5 is an enlarged Figure 4A and Figure 4B of part A in;

[0035] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of Figure 5 ;

[0036] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of Figure 5 ;

[0037] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the path of light in a first organic layer, a second organic layer, and a high refractive index layer;

[0038] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view according to another embodiment of the inventive concept;

[0039] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view according to still another embodiment of the inventive concept; and

[0040] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view according to still another embodiment of the inventive concept. Detailed Description

[0041] Embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although the inventive concept may be modified in various ways and have several embodiments, the embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and will be mainly described in the specification. However, the scope of the inventive concept is not limited to the embodiments and should be construed as including all changes, equivalents, and substitutions included in the spirit and scope of the inventive concept.

[0042] In the drawings, for clarity and ease of description, the thicknesses of multiple layers and regions are illustrated in an enlarged manner. When a layer, region, or plate is referred to as being "on" another layer, another region, or another plate, it can be directly on the other layer, the other region, or the other plate, or there can be an intermediate layer, an intermediate region, or an intermediate plate therebetween. In contrast, when a layer, region, or plate is referred to as being "directly on" another layer, another region, or another plate, there may be no intermediate layer, intermediate region, or intermediate plate therebetween. Additionally, when a layer, region, or plate is referred to as being "below" another layer, another region, or another plate, it can be directly below the other layer, the other region, or the other plate, or there can be an intermediate layer, an intermediate region, or an intermediate plate therebetween. In contrast, when a layer, region, or plate is referred to as being "directly below" another layer, another region, or another plate, there may be no intermediate layer, intermediate region, or intermediate plate therebetween.

[0043] For ease of description, the spatial relative terms "below", "beneath", "underlying", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or component and another element or component as shown in the drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, in the case where the device shown in the drawings is flipped, a device that is "below" or "beneath" another device may be positioned "above" the other device. Thus, the illustrative term "below" can include both a lower position and an upper position. The device can also be oriented in other directions, and thus the spatial relative terms can be differently interpreted depending on the orientation.

[0044] Throughout the specification, when an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, the element is "directly connected" to the other element, or "electrically connected" to the other element, with one or more intermediate elements inserted therebetween. It will be further understood that the terms "comprising" and / or "including" when used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0045] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, the "first element" discussed below can be named the "second element" or the "third element", and the "second element" and the "third element" can be named likewise without departing from the teachings herein.

[0046] Taking into account the measurements under discussion and the errors associated with the measurement of a specific quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system), as used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the stated value and means within an acceptable variation range of the specific value determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "about" may mean within one or more standard variations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, 5% of the stated value.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this inventive concept belongs. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined in this specification.

[0048] Some portions not relevant to the description may not be provided, for example, to describe embodiments of the inventive concept, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0049] Reference will be made hereinafter to Figures 1 to 8 a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1 , a display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept includes a display portion DP and a touch portion TP. According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, the display portion DP and the touch portion TP are integrally formed. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the display portion DP and the touch portion TP may be formed as separate components.

[0052] The display portion DP includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA, and a plurality of pixels PX are located in the display area DA.

[0053] The touch portion TP is disposed on the display portion DP and includes touch electrodes TE.

[0054] Reference will be made hereinafter to Figure 2 and Figure 3 to specifically describe the display portion DP according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0055] Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating a part of a display portion according to an embodiment of the inventive concept, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of a display portion according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0056] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the inventive concept, a display portion DP includes a plurality of pixels PX defined by a pixel defining layer 190, and each pixel PX includes a first substrate 110, a wiring portion 130, an organic light emitting element (hereinafter "organic light emitting diode (OLED)") 210, and a thin film encapsulation layer 301.

[0057] The first substrate 110 may include an insulating material such as glass, quartz, ceramic, plastic, etc. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first substrate 110 according to the embodiment may include a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0058] A buffer layer 120 is disposed on the first substrate 110. The buffer layer 120 may include one or more layers selected from various inorganic layers and organic layers. The buffer layer 120 is used to substantially prevent unwanted components such as impurities or moisture from penetrating into the wiring portion 130 or the OLED 210 and to planarize the surface thereunder. However, the buffer layer 120 is not always necessary and may be omitted.

[0059] The wiring portion 130 is disposed on the buffer layer 120. The wiring portion 130 corresponds to a portion including a switching thin film transistor ("TFT"), a driving TFT 20, and a capacitor 80. The wiring portion 130 drives the OLED 210. The OLED 210 emits light according to a driving signal received from the wiring portion 130 to display an image.

[0060] A display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may be an active matrix organic light emitting diode ("AMOLED") display device having a 2Tr-1Cap structure. For example, in each pixel PX, the 2Tr-1Cap structure may include two TFTs (e.g., a switching TFT (not shown) and a driving TFT 20) and one capacitor 80, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the display device may include three or more TFTs and two or more capacitors in each pixel PX, and may further include additional wiring. Herein, the term "pixel" refers to the smallest unit for displaying a specific color, and the display device displays an image using a plurality of pixels.

[0061] A switching TFT (not shown), a driving TFT 20, a capacitor 80, and an OLED 210 are provided in each pixel PX. In addition, gate lines (not shown) arranged in one direction and data lines 171 and common power lines (not shown) insulated from and intersecting the gate lines are arranged in the wiring portion 130.

[0062] The capacitor 80 includes a pair of capacitor plates 158 and 178, and an insulating interlayer 145 is disposed between the capacitor plates 158 and 178. In such an embodiment, the insulating interlayer 145 may be a dielectric element. The capacitance of the capacitor 80 is determined by the charge accumulated in the capacitor 80 and the voltage between the pair of capacitor plates 158 and 178.

[0063] The switching TFT includes a switching semiconductor layer, a switching gate electrode, a switching source electrode, and a switching drain electrode. The driving TFT 20 includes a driving semiconductor layer 132, a driving gate electrode 155, a driving source electrode 176, and a driving drain electrode 177. The semiconductor layer 132 and the gate electrode 155 are insulated by a gate insulating layer 140.

[0064] The switching TFT can be used as a switching element that selects a pixel PX to transfer the data voltage applied to the data line 171 to the driving TFT 20. The switching gate electrode is connected to the gate line, and the switching source electrode is connected to the data line 171. Spaced apart from the switching source electrode, the switching drain electrode is connected to one of the capacitor plates, for example, the capacitor plate 158.

[0065] Although not shown, the driving TFT 20 applies driving power that allows the light-emitting layer 212 of the OLED 210 in the selected pixel PX to emit light to the first pixel electrode 211. The driving gate electrode 155 is connected to one capacitor plate 158 that is connected to the switching drain electrode. Each of the other capacitor plate (for example, the capacitor plate 178) and the driving source electrode 176 is connected to a common power line. The driving drain electrode 177 is connected to the first pixel electrode 211, which is a pixel electrode of the OLED 210, through a contact hole.

[0066] The switching TFT is driven based on the gate voltage applied to the gate line and is used to transfer the data voltage applied to the data line 171 to the driving TFT 20. A voltage equivalent to the difference between the common voltage applied to the driving TFT 20 from the common power line and the data voltage transferred by (or from) the switching TFT is stored in the capacitor 80, and a current corresponding to the voltage stored in the capacitor 80 flows through the driving TFT 20 to the OLED 210, enabling the OLED 210 to emit light.

[0067] A planarization layer 146 is disposed on the insulating interlayer 145. The planarization layer 146 includes an insulating material and protects the wiring portion 130. The planarization layer 146 and the insulating interlayer 145 may include substantially the same material.

[0068] The OLED 210 is disposed on the planarization layer 146. The OLED 210 includes a first pixel electrode 211, a light-emitting layer 212 disposed on the first pixel electrode 211, and a second pixel electrode 213 disposed on the light-emitting layer 212. Holes and electrons are respectively injected into the light-emitting layer 212 from the first pixel electrode 211 and the second pixel electrode 213, and recombine with each other to form excitons. When the excitons drop from the excited state to the ground state, light emission occurs.

[0069] In an embodiment, the first pixel electrode 211 is an anode for injecting holes, and the second pixel electrode 213 is a cathode for injecting electrons. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first pixel electrode 211 may be a cathode, and the second pixel electrode 213 may be an anode.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the first pixel electrode 211 may include a reflective layer, and the second pixel electrode 213 may include a semi-transmissive reflective layer. Accordingly, the light generated in the light-emitting layer 212 is emitted through the second pixel electrode 213. That is, the display device according to an embodiment of the inventive concept may have a top-emission type structure. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0071] The first pixel electrode 211 may have a structure in which, for example, a reflective layer and a transparent conductive layer are stacked. In such an embodiment, the transparent conductive layer of the first pixel electrode 211 is disposed between the reflective layer and the light-emitting layer 212.

[0072] The reflective layer may include one or more metals among magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and aluminum (Al).

[0073] The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). Examples of the TCO may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO), or indium oxide (In2O3). Since such a transparent conductive layer has a high work function, hole injection through the first pixel electrode 211 is smooth.

[0074] In addition, the first pixel electrode 211 may have a three-layer structure in which a transparent conductive layer, a reflective layer, and a transparent conductive layer are sequentially stacked. The first pixel electrode 211 may include only a transparent conductive layer. In such an embodiment, the first pixel electrode 211 becomes a transparent electrode.

[0075] The second pixel electrode 213 may include a semi-transmissive reflective layer, and the semi-transmissive reflective layer includes one or more metals among magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and aluminum (Al). Generally, the semi-transmissive reflective layer may have a thickness of about 200 nm or less. As the thickness of the semi-transmissive reflective layer becomes thinner, the light transmittance becomes higher, and as the thickness of the semi-transmissive reflective layer becomes thicker, the light transmittance becomes lower.

[0076] At least one of the hole injection layer (HIL) and the hole transport layer HTL may be further provided between the first pixel electrode 211 and the light-emitting layer 212 (not shown).

[0077] In addition, at least one of the electron transport layer ETL and the electron injection layer EIL may be further provided between the light-emitting layer 212 and the second pixel electrode 213 (not shown).

[0078] The light-emitting layer 212, the hole injection layer (HIL), the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL may be referred to as organic layers. The organic layers may include low-molecular organic materials or high-molecular organic materials.

[0079] The pixel defining layer 190 has an opening OP. The opening OP of the pixel defining layer 190 exposes a part of the first pixel electrode 211.

[0080] For example, the pixel defining layer 190 is disposed on the first substrate 110 and overlaps with the edge of the first pixel electrode 211. The opening OP of the pixel defining layer 190 is defined by sidewalls. At least a part of the first pixel electrode 211 is exposed from the pixel defining layer 190 through the opening OP.

[0081] The first pixel electrode 211, the light-emitting layer 212, and the second pixel electrode 213 are sequentially stacked at the opening OP of the pixel defining layer 190. The second pixel electrode 213 is formed on the pixel defining layer 190 and on the light-emitting layer 212. In an embodiment, the hole injection layer (HIL), the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL may also be disposed between the pixel defining layer 190 and the second pixel electrode 213. The OLED 210 generates light from the light-emitting layer 212 located at the opening OP of the pixel defining layer 190. In this way, the pixel defining layer 190 can define the pixel PX.

[0082] The thin film encapsulation layer 301 is disposed on the second pixel electrode 213 to protect the OLED 210. The thin film encapsulation layer 301 basically prevents external air such as moisture or oxygen from penetrating into the OLED 210.

[0083] The thin film encapsulation layer 301 includes at least one inorganic layer 310 and 330 arranged alternately and at least one organic layer 320.

[0084] In Figure 3 it, the thin film encapsulation layer 301 includes two inorganic layers 310 and 330 and one organic layer 320, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0085] Each of the inorganic layers 310 and 330 may include one or more inorganic materials such as Al2O3, TiO2, ZrO, SiO2, AlON, AlN, SiON, Si3N4, ZnO, and Ta2O5. The inorganic layers 310 and 330 may be formed by a method such as a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method or an atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and various methods known to those skilled in the art may be used to form the inorganic layers 310 and 330.

[0086] The organic layer 320 may include polymer-based materials. Examples of polymer-based materials may include, for example, acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene. Additionally, the organic layer 320 may be formed by a thermal deposition process. The thermal deposition process for forming the organic layer 320 may be performed within a temperature range that does not damage the OLED 210. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and various methods known to those skilled in the relevant art may be used to form the organic layer 320.

[0087] The inorganic layers 310 and 330 having thin layers with high density can prevent or effectively reduce the penetration of mainly moisture or oxygen. Moisture and oxygen can be largely prevented from penetrating into the OLED 210 through the inorganic layers 310 and 330.

[0088] The moisture and oxygen that have passed through the inorganic layers 310 and 330 are blocked again by the organic layer 320. The organic layer 320 has an effect of preventing moisture penetration smaller than that of the inorganic layers 310 and 330. However, in addition to the moisture penetration prevention function, the organic layer 320 can also be used as a buffer layer to reduce the stress in the corresponding inorganic layer among the inorganic layers 310 and 330. Additionally, since the organic layer 320 has a planarization property, the uppermost surface of the thin film encapsulation layer 301 can be planarized.

[0089] The thin film encapsulation layer 301 may have a thickness of about 50 μm or less, or may have a thickness of about 10 μm or less as needed. Therefore, the display device can have a rather small thickness.

[0090] Although not shown, a sealing substrate may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer 301 to protect the OLED 210. The sealing substrate faces the first substrate 110 to be coupled to the first substrate 110 and protect the OLED 210. As the sealing substrate, a transparent insulating substrate including glass, quartz, ceramic, plastic, etc. may be used. The sealing substrate may be omitted. When the sealing substrate is omitted, the flexible characteristics of the display device may become excellent.

[0091] Although not shown, the display device may further include a capping layer disposed between the OLED 210 and the thin film encapsulation layer 301. The capping layer has light transmissivity and is used to protect the OLED 210. The capping layer may be used to effectively emit the light emitted from the light emitting layer 212 to the outside.

[0092] In addition, although not shown, an inorganic layer may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer 301. The inorganic layer has light transmissivity and may protect the OLED 210.

[0093] The following will refer to Figures 4A to 8 Specifically describe the touch part according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0094] Figure 4A is a plan view illustrating a first touch electrode according to an embodiment of the inventive concept, Figure 4B is a plan view illustrating a second touch electrode according to an embodiment of the inventive concept, Figure 5 is an enlarged Figure 4A and Figure 4B of part A in Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along the Figure 5 line I-I' of Figure 7 is a sectional view taken along the Figure 5 line II-II' of Figure 8 and is a sectional view showing the path of light in the first organic layer, the second organic layer, and the high refractive index layer.

[0095] Referring to Figures 4A to 7 , the touch part TP includes a first touch electrode TE1, a first organic layer OL1, a second touch electrode TE2, a second organic layer OL2, a light shielding part 510, a high refractive index layer 520, a third organic layer OL3, and a second substrate 600.

[0096] Referring to Figure 1 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B , the touch electrode TE may include a first touch electrode TE1 and a second touch electrode TE2.

[0097] The first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 are disposed in a region corresponding to the display area DA. Although not shown, the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 may be connected to a touch driver through connection lines disposed in a region corresponding to the non-display area NDA.

[0098] The first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 are disposed in a region where no pixel PX is provided. That is, the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 overlap with the pixel defining layer 190.

[0099] The first touch electrode TE1 includes a first main electrode TE1a and a first branch electrode TE1b.

[0100] The first main electrode TE1a may have a plurality of quadrilateral shapes in a plan view, and the first branch electrode TE1b may extend from at least one of the first main electrode TE1a to have a mesh shape among the quadrilateral shapes. Alternatively, the first branch electrode TE1b may not extend from at least one of the quadrilateral shapes defined by the first main electrode TE1a. However, the shape of the first touch electrode TE1 is not limited thereto, and various forms may be adopted.

[0101] The second touch electrode TE2 may have a mesh structure in a plan view. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the second touch electrode TE2 may adopt various forms.

[0102] The first touch electrode TE1 overlaps with the second touch electrode TE2. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0103] In Figure 5 it is illustrated that the first touch electrodes TE1a and TE1b have widths different from the width of the second touch electrode TE2 in a plan view. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first touch electrodes TE1a and TE1b may have widths substantially equal to the width of the second touch electrode TE2 in a plan view.

[0104] The first organic layer OL1 is disposed on the first touch electrode TE1 and has a contact hole SCH for connecting the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. The second touch electrode TE2 is connected to the first touch electrode TE1 through the contact hole SCH.

[0105] The second organic layer OL2 is disposed on the second touch electrode TE2.

[0106] The second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index substantially equal to the refractive index of the first organic layer OL1.

[0107] Reference Figure 7, the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 have a concave lens-shaped opening LOP in the region overlapping with the pixel PX. For example, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may overlap with the first pixel electrode 211, the light-emitting layer 212, and the second pixel electrode 213. Specifically, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may overlap with the light-emitting layer 212. In other words, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be located between the thin-film encapsulation layer 301 and the light-shielding layer 510. Therefore, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may also be arranged between the first touch electrodes TE1 and between the second touch electrodes TE2.

[0108] The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index less than that of the high refractive index layer 520 to be described below. For example, the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index less than about 1.6.

[0109] The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 include polymer-based materials. The polymer-based materials may include one of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be formed on the thin-film encapsulation layer 301 by a thermal deposition process and a patterning process. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be formed by various methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0110] The light-shielding portion 510 is arranged on the second organic layer OL2 and overlaps with the pixel defining layer 190. For example, the light-shielding portion 510 is arranged on the first touch electrodes TE1 and the second touch electrodes TE2. The light-shielding portion 510 may block light in the region where the pixel PX is not arranged, and may substantially prevent the light reflected by the first touch electrodes TE1 and the second touch electrodes TE2 from being seen.

[0111] The high refractive index layer 520 may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 completely overlaps with the light-emitting layer 212.

[0112] The high refractive index layer 520 is arranged at the lens-shaped opening LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Therefore, the high refractive index layer 520 may be arranged between the thin-film encapsulation layer 301 and the third organic layer OL3, and thus may also be arranged between the first touch electrodes TE1 and between the second touch electrodes TE2, and may include a first convex surface 521a protruding toward the display portion DP. The high refractive index layer 520 contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2.

[0113] The high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index of approximately 1.6, and the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index of approximately 1.5.

[0114] Therefore, light incident on the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 is refracted, which will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 8 Specific description.

[0115] The high refractive index layer 520 may be a color filter. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 may be a color filter having a color substantially the same as the color of light emitted from the light emitting layer 212 overlapping with the high refractive index layer 520. For example, red light may be emitted from the light emitting layer 212, and the high refractive index layer 520 overlapping with the light emitting layer 212 may be a red color filter. The light emitting layer 212 may emit light having any color among red, green, and blue, and the high refractive index layer 520 may be a color filter having any color among red, green, and blue.

[0116] The third organic layer OL3 is disposed on the high refractive index layer 520. The third organic layer OL3 includes an insulating material and protects the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. The third organic layer OL3 may include a material substantially the same as the materials included in the planarization layer 146 and the insulating interlayer 145. The third organic layer OL3 is used to substantially prevent unnecessary components such as impurities or moisture from penetrating into the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 and to planarize the surface.

[0117] The third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index substantially equal to those of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Therefore, the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index smaller than that of the high refractive index layer 520.

[0118] The second substrate 600 is disposed on the third organic layer OL3. The second substrate 600 faces the first substrate 110 and protects the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. As the second substrate 600, a transparent insulating substrate including glass, quartz, ceramic, plastic, etc. may be used. The second substrate 600 may be omitted. When the second substrate 600 is omitted, the flexible characteristics of the display device may become excellent.

[0119] Although not shown, an adhesive layer may be disposed between the second substrate 600 and the third organic layer OL3 to attach the second substrate 600 to the third organic layer OL3.

[0120] Figure 8It is a cross-sectional view showing the paths of light in the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the high refractive index layer 520.

[0121] Light L1 generated in the light-emitting layer 212 and incident on the first organic layer OL1 or the second organic layer OL2 is refracted at the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Refer to Figure 8 , light L1 is incident on the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 at an angle θ1 (angle of incidence), and is refracted at an angle θ2 (angle of refraction). In such an embodiment, the refractive index n2 of the high refractive index layer 520 is higher than the refractive index n1 of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 (n2 > n1), thus resulting in "θ2 < θ1". Therefore, compared with the light L1 incident on the first organic layer OL1 or the second organic layer OL2, the light L2 incident on the high refractive index layer 520 is in a state of converging forward.

[0122] Thus, since the high refractive index layer 520 including the first convex surface 521a is used for condensing light, the front visibility and the light-emitting efficiency of the display device are improved.

[0123] Another embodiment of the inventive concept will be described below with reference to Figure 9 describe.

[0124] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view according to another embodiment of the inventive concept. Hereinafter, for the sake of avoiding redundancy, the description of the components already described above will be omitted.

[0125] The high refractive index layer 520 may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 overlaps with the light-emitting layer 212, and may be disposed between the first touch electrodes TE1 and between the second touch electrodes TE2.

[0126] The high refractive index layer 520 is disposed at the lens-shaped opening LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Therefore, the high refractive index layer 520 may include a first convex surface 521a protruding toward the display portion DP. According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, the high refractive index layer 520 may include a second convex surface 521b protruding toward the third organic layer OL3. Therefore, the second convex surface 521b may be disposed between the light-shielding portion 510 and the third organic layer OL3.

[0127] The first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b may overlap with the light-emitting layer 212. The second convex surface 521b may overlap with the first convex surface 521a in a plan view.

[0128] The high refractive index layer 520 contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 in a region overlapping with the pixel PX. For example, the first convex surface 521a contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2.

[0129] The high refractive index layer 520 contacts the third organic layer OL3 in a region overlapping with the pixel PX. For example, the second convex surface 521b may overlap with the third organic layer OL3.

[0130] The high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index of about 1.6, and the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index of about 1.5.

[0131] According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, since the first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b have a lens shape and there is a refractive index difference between the high refractive index layer 520 and the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3, the light generated in the light emitting layer 212 is refracted at the interfaces between the high refractive index layer 520 and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 and at the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3. Thus, since the high refractive index layer 520 including the first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b is used for condensing light, the front visibility and the light emitting efficiency of the display device are improved.

[0132] Another embodiment of the inventive concept will be described below with reference to Figure 10 Another embodiment of the inventive concept will be described.

[0133] Figure 10 FIG. is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the inventive concept. Hereinafter, descriptions of components already described above will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0134] In a plan view, the high refractive index layer 520 may overlap with the pixel PX. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 overlaps with the light emitting layer 212 and may be disposed between the second organic layer OL2 and the third organic layer OL3.

[0135] According to another embodiment, the high refractive index layer 520 may include a first convex surface 521a protruding toward the third organic layer OL3.

[0136] The first convex surface 521a may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first convex surface 521a may completely overlap with the light-emitting layer 212. In other words, the first convex surface 521a may be disposed between the second organic layer OL2 and the third organic layer OL3.

[0137] The high refractive index layer 520 contacts the third organic layer OL3 in a region overlapping with the pixel PX. For example, the first convex surface 521a may overlap with the third organic layer OL3.

[0138] The high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index of about 1.6, and the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index of about 1.5.

[0139] According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, since the first convex surface 521a has a lens shape and a refractive index difference between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3, light generated in the light-emitting layer 212 is refracted at the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3. Thus, since the high refractive index layer 520 including the first convex surface 521a is used for condensing light, the front visibility and the light-emitting efficiency of the display device are improved.

[0140] Another embodiment of the inventive concept will be described below with reference to Figure 11 Another embodiment of the inventive concept will be described below with reference to

[0141] Figure 11 FIG. is a cross-sectional view according to another embodiment of the inventive concept. Hereinafter, descriptions of components that have been described above will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0142] The high refractive index layer 520 may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 overlaps with the light-emitting layer 212 and may be disposed between the second organic layer OL2 and the third organic layer OL3.

[0143] The high refractive index layer 520 may include a first concave surface 522a having a lens shape.

[0144] The first concave surface 522a may overlap with the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first concave surface 522a may overlap with the light-emitting layer 212. In other words, the first concave surface 522a may be disposed between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3.

[0145] The high refractive index layer 520 contacts the third organic layer OL3 in a region overlapping with the pixel PX. For example, the first concave surface 522a may overlap with the third organic layer OL3.

[0146] The high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index higher than those of the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3. For example, the high refractive index layer 520 may have a refractive index of about 1.6, and the first organic layer OL1, the second organic layer OL2, and the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index of about 1.5.

[0147] According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, since the first recessed surface 522a has a lens shape and there is a refractive index difference between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3, the light generated in the light-emitting layer 212 is refracted at the interface between the high refractive index layer 520 and the third organic layer OL3. Thus, since the high refractive index layer 520 including the first recessed surface 522a is used for condensing light, the front visibility and the light-emitting efficiency of the display device are improved.

[0148] As described above, according to one or more embodiments, the display device has excellent light-emitting efficiency.

[0149] Although the inventive concept has been illustrated and described with reference to embodiments of the inventive concept, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: a display portion including pixels defined by a pixel defining layer; and a touch portion located on the display portion, wherein the touch portion includes: a first touch electrode overlapping with the pixel defining layer; a first organic layer located on the first touch electrode; a second touch electrode contacting the first touch electrode; a second organic layer located on the second touch electrode; and a high refractive index layer located on the first organic layer, the second touch electrode, and the second organic layer, and wherein the high refractive index layer is arranged between adjacent second touch electrodes in a plan view and includes a first convex surface protruding toward the display portion and overlapping with one of the pixels, wherein the first convex surface contacts the display portion, wherein the high refractive index layer is a color filter having the same color as the light emitted from the light emitting layer of the display portion, and wherein the high refractive index layer arranged between the adjacent second touch electrodes includes only one first convex surface.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first organic layer has a refractive index equal to that of the second organic layer, and wherein the high refractive index layer has a refractive index higher than that of the first organic layer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first convex surface contacts at least one of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The touch portion further includes a third organic layer arranged on the high refractive index layer and having a refractive index equal to that of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein, The high refractive index layer includes a second convex surface protruding toward the third organic layer.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The second convex surface contacts the third organic layer.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The second convex surface overlaps with the first convex surface in a plan view.

8. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The touch portion further includes a substrate and an adhesive layer arranged between the substrate and the third organic layer.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display portion includes: a first pixel electrode; the light emitting layer located on the first pixel electrode; and a second pixel electrode located on the light emitting layer.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The high refractive index layer is a color filter having one of the colors red, green, and blue.

11. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The first convex surface of the high refractive index layer overlaps with the light emitting layer.

12. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The first touch electrode and the second touch electrode overlap with the pixel defining layer.

13. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The touch portion further includes a light shielding portion located on the second organic layer and overlapping with the pixel defining layer.

14. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The display portion further includes a thin film encapsulation layer located on the second pixel electrode and the pixel defining layer.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The display portion further includes an inorganic layer between the touch portion and the thin film encapsulation layer.

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